Page 8 - WBG Dec 2025

Message from

1 VICE PRESIDENT
ST

One More Member, A Stronger WAD

By the Vice President, World Association of Detectives (WAD)
As we celebrate WAD’s 100th year, For prospective members, here’s what
I’m struck by something simple and WAD offers in practical terms:
powerful: our greatest asset isn’t a tool • A trusted global network that can help
or a logo or even our long history— you solve problems faster; with vetted
it’s each other. When professionals partners you can rely on.
with integrity and curiosity connect, • Credibility and community—a place
share, and collaborate, we create where professional standards are upheld
momentum that lifts every member. and relationships are built on integrity.
That momentum is alive across our • Learning and visibility through
association today, and it’s visible in the conferences, working groups, and shared
growing energy around our work, our best practices that help you stay sharp
events, and our voice in the world. and get noticed.
• Opportunities—new clients, joint
First, a heartfelt thank-you to our social engagements, cross-border referrals, and
media Team. Your creativity, discipline, the confidence that comes from knowing
and consistency have expanded WAD’s you’re not working alone.
reach and relevance. You’ve sparked For current members, here’s the challenge
conversations, highlighted members’ and the opportunity: think of the one
achievements, and showcased what person who belongs here. A colleague
collaboration looks like at its best. who consistently goes the extra mile. A
The growth in our visibility during this firm that handles complex assignments
centennial year is not accidental, it’s with care. A rising professional whose
the result of your effort. On behalf of energy inspires you. Reach out. Tell them
all of us: bravo. why WAD matters to you. Share how the
network has opened doors, improved
Now, let’s build on that momentum with your practice, or helped you navigate a
purpose. The invitation I’m extending is tough case. Offer to introduce them to
straightforward: each active member your regional leadership or to another
commits to bringing at least one quality member who can answer questions. A
new professional into the WAD family warm, personal invitation is often the
this year. Not just any name, not just spark that creates a lifetime connection.
a number—someone who shares our
values, who will contribute, show up, Quality remains our compass. We are
and elevate the standard of our work. not chasing volume; we are curating
When we bring in the right people, strength. As we welcome new voices,
we all benefit: more knowledge in we reaffirm what makes WAD different:
the room, more perspectives at the high standards, mutual respect, and
table, more opportunities for cross- a spirit of service to clients and to one
border collaboration, and a stronger another. That’s how we honor a century
reputation for excellence. of excellence—by ensuring the next
hundred years are even stronger.
“ Quality remains our I especially want to encourage
potential members across South To the social media team: keep telling
compass. We are America, Africa, and the Middle East our story. To every member let’s each
to explore WAD. These regions are bring one more exceptional professional
not chasing volume; we dynamic, entrepreneurial, and full of into this community. To prospective
investigative talent and corporate members in South America, Africa, the
are curating resilience. The businesses we serve are Middle East, and beyond: come see
increasingly global; the challenges what’s possible when you’re part of a
strength.” we tackle—compliance, fraud, due network that believes in your potential
diligence, risk, and brand protection— and stands ready to help you succeed
do not respect borders. We need
voices and expertise that reflect the One more member. One more
realities on the ground in Bogotá and perspective. One more bridge between
São Paulo, Lagos and Nairobi, Cairo markets and disciplines. That’s how we
and Casablanca, Dubai and Doha. grow. That’s how we win—together.
Your markets are evolving rapidly;
your clients are innovating; your
solutions are shaping the future of our
profession. WAD should be a home Juan C. Giraldo
where that innovation is seen, heard,
6 and strengthened. 2nd Vice President