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A new wave for OCEANS: Meet our newly elected leadership
The OCEANS Network has recently concluded elections for its President and Vice President and its Heads of Departments (Community Development, Internal Affairs, International Affairs, Projects, and Communications) for the 2026-2027 term. Meet the elected members.
Dear OCEANS family,
With the conclusion of the Administration and Department Head elections, we would like to take a moment to reflect on our previous boards and introduce our newly elected leadership.
First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our former President and Vice President: Samir Beharic and Leila Benabdallah, for their valuable contributions. Your dedication has left an inspiring legacy, and you will always remain an integral part of the OCEANS family.
We would also like to congratulate all candidates who participated in the elections and confidently presented their campaigns with enthusiasm and dedication across our network channels. Beyond the elections themselves, this period became a vibrant and engaging experience bringing members closer together and fostering open communication. This dynamic atmosphere helped strengthen connections and inspired meaningful initiatives within our community.
The election process for the President and Vice President positions concluded on 22 December at midnight (CET).
Mir Murad Sadikhov was elected President with 75 votes, demonstrating strong support for his vision and leadership.
The Vice President election proceeded to a second round, as no candidate reached the required majority in the first round. In the second round, Vitória Cabral secured 47 votes, continuing her impactful contribution to OCEANS after successfully serving as Head of Community Development in the previous term.
The elections for the Heads of Departments concluded on 7 February, with the following results:
- Bennittes Kipyegon (Kenya) - Community Development (18 votes)
- Laryssa Damasceno (Brazil) - Internal Affairs (28 votes)
- Daniela Cristina Carfi (Brazil) - International Affairs (33 votes)
- Cosme Zinsou Odjo (Benin) - Projects (20 votes)
The election for Head of the Communications Department required a second round due to a tie in the first round held on 7 February. In the second round, held on 17 February, Ceren Tost was elected with 26 votes.
We are delighted to welcome the new leadership team for the 2026–2027 term:
Administration:
Mir Murad Sadikhov (Azerbaijan) - President
Vitória Cabral (Brazil) - Vice President
Heads of Departments:
Bennittes Kipyegon (Kenya) - Community Development
Laryssa Damasceno (Brazil) - Internal Affairs
Daniela Cristina Carfi (Brazil) - International Affairs
Cosme Zinsou Odjo (Benin) - Projects
Ceren Tost (Türkiye) - Communications
We are confident that our network will continue to grow in a professional and collaborative environment under the leadership of our Administration and with the dedicated contributions of our Department Heads. Our board is composed of individuals who demonstrate patience, commitment, and a strong sense of responsibility.
We sincerely thank all members who participated in the election process and contributed to strengthening our democratic values.
Stay tuned for updates and announcements as we move forward together under the guidance of our newly elected leaders.
May this dynamic energy lead us toward a successful and impactful term!
With patience and imagination,
Ceren Tost
OCEANS Head of Communications
Rome, Italy, 31 March 2026
Edited by the Erasmus+ Support Service Team
