Sten A. Akestam of Stockholm, Sweden, was elected to serve as international president of The International Association of Lions Clubs after his inauguration at the association's 69th annual convention held in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, July 9-12, 1986.

Past President Akestam is self-employed and owner of Sten Akestam House Management Company.

A Lion and charter member of the Stockholm-Globe Lions Club since 1956, Lion Akestam has over 35 years 100% attendance record. The many offices Past President Akestam has held during those years include charter secretary, club president, district governor and multiple district chairman. In 1977, Past President Akestam was elected to a two-year term as director on the association's International Board of directors. He has also served as a member of the International Credential Committee and the International Election Committee.

For his efforts on behalf of the association, Past President Akestam has received numerous awards, including the 100% District Governor Award, Master Key Award, Extension Award, 15 International President's Awards and the Ambassador of Good Will Award, the highest honor a Lion can receive. Past President Akestam is also a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow.

Past President Akestam organized the first International Youth Camp in 1961. He served as initiator and leader of Sweden's First Red Feather Campaign in 1965. Later, Past President Akestam acted as advisor to Red Feather Campaigns in Norway, Finland and Iceland. A "red feather" symbolizes a joint fund raising activity throughout a multiple district.

Past President Akestam has been a member of the Quest International board of directors since 1990 and from 1997 a member of the board of the International Youth Foundation. He is also a member of the board of the Swedish King's Foundation for young people in Sweden, chaired by His Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI.

Past President Akestam and his wife, Martha, have three children, Birgitta, Anita and Goran and seven grandchildren.

DOWNLOAD PHOTO