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about oca
our team and values
OCA’s impact is driven by a dedicated and growing international team that brings together diverse expertise and cultural perspectives. In 2024 we welcomed eight new colleagues across the Netherlands, India and Pakistan. Together we are a group of 11 nationalities, based in four countries, with diverse professional backgrounds allowing us to respond to the complex challenges facing the organic cotton sector. In May last year, we had the privilege of gathering in Amsterdam, an opportunity to strengthen our collaboration, align on our goals, spark new ideas and build trust through face-to-face interaction.
Internal gender balance remains a key priority: in 2024, 56% of our staff were women and 44% men.
As a values-led organisation, we maintain a strong commitment to business ethics, transparency and accountability. Our suite of organisational policies—publicly accessible on our website—aligns with established best practices across the not-for-profit sector, ensuring operational excellence and integrity. These include our Whistleblowing Policy, Complaints Policy, Equal Opportunities Policy, and Safeguarding Policy. In 2024, OCA received one complaint through its established mechanisms.
OCA does not tolerate harassment, abuse of power, or discrimination in any form. We actively foster a respectful and inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and fairness.
OCA team members can reach out to either of two Confidential Advisers—one internal and one external—for support and to discuss any concerns they may have, including seeking counselling or guidance. No integrity breaches were reported in 2024.
Transparency and Ethics
" At OCA, inclusivity isn’t just a value, it’s woven into how we collaborate, learn, and grow. No matter where you come from or what your story is, your voice matters here. We believe diverse experiences don’t just enrich our work, they’re essential to solving big challenges. Being part of this team means showing up as you are and being celebrated for it."
Lucina Yeasmin
Agronomy Officer, India
We are inclusive
We have grit
"At OCA, we don’t shy away from what’s hard, we lean into it. Grit here means showing up with purpose, sticking with it when things get messy, and celebrating the small wins along the way. We know real change takes time. That’s why we stay committed, no matter how tough the path gets."
Ömür Suner
Country Manager , Türkiye
We are enterprising
"Working at OCA means bringing your ideas to the table, and knowing they won’t just sit there. This is a place for thinkers, doers, and quiet disruptors. The mindset is: see a gap, create a solution. We move fast, try new things, and stay focused on what really matters, delivering better outcomes for farmers and our sector."
Rubab Zahra
Country Manager, Pakistan
We are honest
"There’s no smoke and mirrors at OCA. We say what we mean and do what we say—whether it’s with farmers, partners, or each other. That kind of clarity builds trust, and that trust powers everything else. Form, honesty here isn’t about avoiding mistakes; it’s about being real, learning fast, and moving forward with integrity."
Rozenn Richardeau
Capacity Building Manager
Our values represent the guiding framework for our work.