“A Century of Change: Empowering Generations”

CCL Centenary Team -
A Dedicated Team Of Changemakers

Our CCL Centenary Team

Duchess William’s Alonga

— President of Commonwealth Countries League (CCL)

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT OF CCL

Dear Friends, Partners and Supporters,

RE: A CENTURY OF CHANGE: EMPOWERING GENERATIONS

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I extend a heartfelt welcome to you as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Countries League (CCL)—a milestone that honours our enduring mission to educate girls, unite nations, and protect our planet.

Since 1925, CCL has worked across the 56 nations of the Commonwealth to empower women and girls, foster mutual understanding, and champion equality. As we enter our Centenary Year, we are marking this extraordinary journey with a rich programme of cultural, educational, environmental, and peace-building events.

Our celebrations will begin with a prestigious Afternoon Tea at the House of Lords on 22 May 2025, hosted by The Right Honourable Lord David Hunt of Wirral and joined by esteemed guests including the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and High Commissioners. Throughout the year, we will host the International Children’s Peace Assembly, tree-planting initiatives, the Commonwealth Fair, and a Centenary Gala Evening—all designed to inspire future generations and honour the legacy of our founders.

We warmly invite you—individuals, organisations, educators, diplomats, and changemakers—to become part of this landmark year. Whether through partnership, sponsorship, attendance, or advocacy, your involvement will help us continue building a more peaceful, educated, and inclusive Commonwealth.

Let us celebrate a Century of Change together, and shape the next hundred years with hope, purpose, and unity.

With warmest regards,

Duchess Williams-Alonga
President
Commonwealth Countries League
www.commonwealthcountriesleague.org

Letter from CCL President – Click to download

Dr Vasi Hollinghurst Daniel

— CCL Patron 

Dr Vasi H Daniel is a distinguished humanitarian and one of the first Executive Directors of the Commonwealth Countries League (CCL). With a background in public relations and fundraising, she has tirelessly championed girls’ education and diversity across organisations.

A proud Rotarian and past President of the Rotary Club of London, she has received multiple international awards for her service. As a diplomat’s wife, Vasi has supported many ambassadors’ families and advocated for mental health and community wellbeing. She is also the founder of major International Women’s Day and Peace Day events. Now retired, she continues to serve as Patron of CCL and Freeman of the City of London.

Dr Honey Kalaria 

— CCL Events Team Member

Dr. Honey Kalaria, Global President of International Children’s Peace Network (ICPN), is a multi-award-winning creative arts entrepreneur and global peace advocate with over 35 years of international experience. 

As founder of Honey’s Dance Academy, she has trained over 500,000 students and contributed to major productions in film, television, and theatre. Her global roles include Ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Chair of the Rotary London Environment Committee, and Founding Director of the International Children’s Peace Network. In recognition of her contributions to cultural diplomacy, she was awarded Life Membership of the World Peace Foundation in 2025.

Dale Eaton 

— CCL Events Team Member

Dale Eaton has been a dedicated supporter of the Commonwealth Countries League for many years, serving as Membership Secretary in 2015. 

With a strong background in non-profit leadership and event management, he has contributed to numerous educational and cultural charities. A dual UK-Australia resident, Dale is a Freeman of the City of London, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, and an honorary Tongan “Talking Chief.”

Dame Dr Elizabeth Negus 

— CCL Events Team Member

Dame Dr Elizabeth Negus is an esteemed educator, author, and international conference speaker with over 25 years of experience in teaching, mentoring, and academic leadership.

A Founding Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching, she has contributed globally to education through lectures, research, and publications. A Freeman of the City of London and recognised by the late Prince Philip, she continues to influence inclusive education and peace through her academic and international work.

Margaret James Cooper 

— CCL Events Team Member / Chairman

Margaret James Cooper is Chair of the CCL Centenary Events Team and a proud Commonwealth advocate with a deep commitment to youth empowerment and women’s advancement.

A Rotarian for over a decade and Past President of the Rotary Club of Barkingside, she brings her expertise in public relations, journalism, and international service to her role. Margaret is passionate about uniting Commonwealth communities through education, celebration, and meaningful global connections.

Lisa Marsh

— CCL Events Team Member

More Details To Follow

Sean Goodman

— CCL Events Team Member

More Details To Follow