Islander, Marie Kenny, elected World President of the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW)

For Immediate Release (May 25, 2026)

Prince Edward Island, Canada — Pride and excitement were felt across Prince Edward Island and around the world following the election of Marie Kenny as World President of the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW), one of the largest international organizations representing rural women.

The declaration took place during the 31st Associated Country Women of the Triennial World Conference in Ottawa, Canada with over 51 countries in attendance. As World President, Kenny will lead ACWW in advancing initiatives focused on education, food security, climate action, and women’s rights—ensuring rural women remain at the heart of sustainable development worldwide.

As the world’s largest international organization for rural women, ACWW addresses key issues such as climate-smart agriculture, education, community development, rural women’s health and access to resources. With nine million members in 82 countries the organization empowers women in agriculture by funding small-scale, community-led projects that promote sustainable practices, training, and food security.

This remarkable achievement marks a historic moment not only for Marie Kenny of Brackley, PEI, who takes over the prominent leadership from Magdie deKock of South Africa but also for the Prince Edward Island Women’s Institute (PEIWI) and Canada as only 4 Canadians have reached International positions for close to a century of service. Kenny was a past president of PEIWI and FWIC.Marie Kenny’s election signals a powerful step forward for global collaboration, advocacy, and empowerment. Known for her unwavering dedication, compassionate leadership, and deep commitment to rural women’s voices, Ms. Kenny brings both experience and vision to this prestigious role.

“I am deeply honored and inspired to serve as World President of ACWW,” said Kenny. “Together, we will continue to champion the strength, resilience, and innovation of rural women across the globe. The future is bright when we work together.”

Members of the PEI Women’s Institute are celebrating this achievement as a testament to the strength of grassroots leadership and the global impact of local action. “This is an extraordinary moment for our organization,” stated Miriam Lank, representative of the national body of Federated Women’s Institute of Canada (FWIC), and provincial PEIWI board. “Marie embodies the spirit of leadership, compassion, and determination that defines our members. We are thrilled to see her take on this global role.”“Marie’s journey from community involvement on Prince Edward Island to the global stage exemplifies the power of dedication and service” adds Carolyn MacFadyen, PEIWI President.

This announcement brings not only celebration, but renewed energy and optimism for the future of rural communities everywhere. The Associated Country Women of the World has held consultative status with the United Nations for decades and plays a key role in shaping policy discussions that impact rural communities across the globe.

Ms. Kenny’s three-year term as World President begins immediately.

(Image: Marie and husband Cecil Kenny at Closing Ceremony of 31st ACWW Triennial World Conference in Ottawa, Ontario.)

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Media Contact:Ellen MacPhailExecutive Director PEI Women’s Institute

40 Enman Crescent, Charlottetown, PE

edmacphail@gov.pe.ca; 902-368-4860