The 21st YMCA World Council in Toronto brought together around 1,400 YMCA staff and volunteers from more than 100 countries. It was an incredible reminder of just how big and diverse our YMCA family is, and how much we have in common despite working in very different countries and communities.

Under the theme “A Transforming YMCA in a Transforming World,” the week was a chance to share ideas, learn from one another and think about how YMCA can continue to respond to the changing needs of young people and communities. For YMCA Ireland, some of the most valuable moments came through the conversations and relationships built with colleagues from across the world.

We were particularly pleased to continue developing our partnership with YMCA of the Rockies, exploring opportunities for leadership visits, staff and youth exchanges and even the possibility of an international youth camp at Greenhill. We also made new connections with other YMCAs and were encouraged by the interest in YMCA Ireland’s own experience, particularly around peacebuilding, organisational development and our work with young people.

More than anything, World Council was a reminder that while YMCA Ireland may be a relatively small movement, we are part of something much bigger. There is so much we can learn from others, but also a great deal we can share. We’re looking forward to building on these relationships and creating new opportunities for our young people, staff, volunteers and local YMCAs in the years ahead.

Andrea Spence, YMCA Ireland