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OurWhisky Foundation shares restructuring plans
The OurWhisky Foundation has revealed the first steps of a restructure planned for 2025, and appointed its first executive director.
Writer and presenter Becky Paskin founded the non-profit OurWhisky Foundation in 2022 to support women in whisky, and champion a more inclusive and diverse industry.
The restructure of the UK-based foundation will begin this spring. It comes as demand for the organisation’s mentorship programme has soared, with applications outnumbering places seven to one.
As such, in place of one global mentorship programme, the scheme will divide and expand into regional chapters.
The first two chapters will launch in Great Britain (covering England, Scotland and Wales), and Ireland (spanning Northern Ireland the Republic of Ireland).
Each region will oversee its own mentorship programme, as well as networking events, workshops, and excursions.
Paskin said: “Since we started our mentorship programme in 2022 we’ve been overwhelmed by the number of applications and enquiries from women and non-binary individuals around the world.
“Although we’ve managed to support over 200 individuals in that time, it’s clear we need to transition to a new structure that can provide community and support to everyone who needs it.”
Marissa Johnston becomes foundation’s first executive director
Ahead of the restructure, the foundation has appointed Marissa Johnston as its first executive director.
Johnston was formerly the global head of Diageo World Class and advocacy. She brings more than 15 years of experience in the drinks sector to the role.
“With my passion for advocacy and a deep-rooted commitment to empowering women in whisky, I am excited to leverage my experience to drive impactful change,” Johnston commented. “Together, we will foster a vibrant community that supports and uplifts women, creating opportunities and celebrating their contributions.
“I look forward to collaborating with our partners to elevate our mission and innovate ways to engage and inspire.”
Paskin expressed confidence in Johnston’s ability to “tremendously” help the foundation in a “significant year” for the non-profit.
She added: “I’m incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved so far and am confident that under Marissa’s leadership our work will have an even greater positive impact on the whisky industry.”
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