Governance Policy

Policy Statement

Gender Interactive Alliance (GIA) is a transgender-led organization that is committed to transparency, accountability, and strategic governance. GIA’s governance structure is designed to ensure that all organizational activities align with the mission and vision of the organization while maintaining a robust connection with the community it serves.

Executive Board

At the apex of GIA’s governance structure is the Executive Board, which is composed entirely of transgender persons, reaffirming GIA’s commitment to being a truly transgender-led organization. The Executive Board’s primary responsibilities include setting the strategic direction of the organization, approving all new policies and by-laws, overseeing issues related to corruption and transparency, and providing guidance based on community interests and feedback. The Executive Board convenes quarterly to review the organization’s progress, approve strategic decisions, and ensure that all actions are in line with GIA’s core values and objectives. The Board’s Executive Committee, consisting of a President, a General Secretary, and a Treasurer, plays a pivotal role in overseeing the financial transactions and maintaining the integrity of the organization’s operations.

Senior Management Team (SMT)

The Senior Management Team (SMT) at GIA, which is also composed entirely of transgender individuals, holds operational autonomy within the framework set by the Executive Board. The SMT is responsible for the day-to-day management of GIA’s activities, ensuring that all operations adhere to the by-laws and policies approved by the Board. The SMT consists of an Executive Director, a Director of Policy and Research, and a Programs Manager. They are empowered to make decisions concerning the organization’s projects, programs, and initiatives, provided these decisions align with the established policies and strategic direction. The SMT meets with the Executive Board during the quarterly Board meetings to present progress reports, discuss strategic matters, and receive guidance. This regular interaction ensures that the organization’s operations are consistently aligned with its long-term goals and community needs.

Finance Manager

The Finance Manager, who reports directly to the Director of Policy and Research, plays a crucial role in maintaining GIA’s financial integrity. The Finance Manager is responsible for managing the organization’s finances, preparing financial reports, and ensuring compliance with
all financial regulations. The Finance Manager attends all Board meetings to provide updates and addresses any financial queries the Board may have. Additionally, all financial transactions require the signatures of either the Treasurer or the General Secretary, ensuring an extra layer of oversight and accountability.

Senior Management Team (SMT)

The Senior Management Team (SMT) at GIA, which is also composed entirely of transgender individuals, holds operational autonomy within the framework set by the Executive Board. The SMT is responsible for the day-to-day management of GIA’s activities, ensuring that all operations adhere to the by-laws and policies approved by the Board. The SMT consists of an Executive Director, a Director of Policy and Research, and a Programs Manager. They are empowered to make decisions concerning the organization’s projects, programs, and initiatives, provided these decisions align with the established policies and strategic direction. The SMT meets with the Executive Board during the quarterly Board meetings to present progress reports, discuss strategic matters, and receive guidance. This regular interaction ensures that the organization’s operations are consistently aligned with its long-term goals and community needs.

GIA Youth Chapter

The GIA Youth Chapter, under the leadership of the Director of Youth Affairs, serves as an extension of the GIA Executive Working Body and works in strategic collaboration with GIA’s programmatic initiatives and community-based interventions.

Accountability and Reporting

GIA places a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability. The organization has established comprehensive anti-corruption and whistleblowing policies to ensure that all members adhere to the highest ethical standards. Complaints lodged under these policies, as well as their outcomes, must be reported to the Executive Board. In cases where a complaint is directed against a member of the SMT, it can be submitted directly to the Board, ensuring that no conflict of interest impedes the resolution process.