GENERAL BOARD
MAK DODAN
PRESIDENT
ALEKSANDRS BORODAJENKO
VICE PRESIDENT
BETTINA FREDRIX
TREASURER
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ruth dOwning
mayumi ide
Mak Đodan
Mak Đodan (born 1990, Zagreb, Croatia) grew up in a dog-breeding family and has been part of the international dog world from an early age. His background includes experience with multiple breeds and long-standing involvement in dog shows, events, and media.
Mak is a professional dog photographer running mobile photo studios across Europe, with award-winning work recognized internationally, including Professional Dog Portrait of the Year 2018 at the first WDPA Photo Competition. He was responsible for the official photography of the World Dog Show 2024 and managed press accreditations at both the World Dog Show 2023 in Geneva and 2024 in Zagreb.
In addition to his media work, Mak is closely involved in Junior Handling. He previously organized the European Junior Handling Finals and is appointed Organizer of the International Junior Handling Competition at the World Dog Show 2027.
Mak joined the board of the World Dog Press Association in 2020 and has served as President since April 2024, focusing on strengthening international cooperation, professionalism, and media standards within the dog world.
Aleksandrs Borodajenko
Aleksandrs Borodajenko has been around dogs his entire life. His interest in photography started at a young age, eventually leading him to a career that combines his two biggest passions.
For 15 years, Aleksandrs has worked professionally as a reporter and dog photographer. He works regularly with Baltic kennel clubs and is currently in the process of becoming an FCI judge.
His Goals for the WDPA: Aleksandrs wants to make it easier for the press and kennel clubs to work together. He believes that by improving communication, we can make dog events in every country more visible and exciting for everyone.
He aims to make the WDPA a welcoming place where new members can join, share their experiences, and take part in international events and competitions.
In 2024, Aleksandrs joined the board of the World Dog Press Association and currently serves as its Vice President.
Bettina Fredrix
Bettina Fredrix is based in Antwerp, Belgium. Many in the dog world know her for her work with her partner, WDPA photographer Marc Goetstouwers. Bettina assists him on photo shoots and is also an experienced writer, contributing articles about dog shows and coursing to the FCI and various international magazines.
In 2024, Bettina joined the board of the World Dog Press Association and currently serves as the Treasurer.
Her Goals for the WDPA: Bettina joined the board to help with the legal and administrative side of the association, providing important support for the team in Belgium. She strongly believes in the WDPA’s mission to bring professionals together to secure better working conditions. She also believes that professional conduct by all members is the key to building credibility in the industry.
Bettina is multilingual, speaking Flemish, English, German, and French, with some knowledge of Spanish, making her a great point of contact for our international members and partners.
Karl Donvil
Karl Donvil, Belgium
Founder and the Executive Officer of WDPA.
Freelance reporter & photographer.
Former member of the Editorial Board of the FCI. Press Officer of the FCI European Dog Show 2016 in Brussels.
