Over 300 representatives of Northern Ireland’s charities, community groups and social enterprises came together at W5 Belfast recently to learn, share, and celebrate the value and diversity of the voluntary sector.
With sector employing over 50,000 people and mobilising over 200,000 volunteers across over 7,000 charities which underpin social and economic development in Northern Ireland, the summit, organised by Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA), was designed to create a space to ‘inspire, connect and strengthen’ the sector.
With Tara Mills hosting the day-long event, the line-up was punctuated by two plenary sessions focused on future-proofing workforces to thrive in a digital age by Dr Nicola Millard, Principal Innovation Partner at BT and Stephen Dallas, CEO of Bytes Project, and misinformation in the digital age with Dr Orna Young, Managing Director at FactCheckNI and journalist Amanda Ferguson.
Pictured: Celine McStravick, Chief Executive, NICVA, Charlene Brooks, Interim Chair, NICVA, Stephen Dallas, Bytes Project & Dr Nicola Millard, BT
Looking ahead at the inaugural Summit Celine McStravick, Chief Executive, NICVA outlined three priorities for NICVA and its member organisations: to embed partnership across government and funders, securing sustainable funding that recognises the true value of the sector, and investing in its people – both paid and volunteers – with skills and support to meet evolving needs.
Addressing delegates from organisations across Northern Ireland, which she referred to as “The lifeblood of our communities,” Celine called for a new partnership with the Northern Ireland Executive. “Our sector has never stopped working for Northern Ireland, and transformation means we’re at the table – having tough conversations and making tough decisions – together.”
“During the pandemic we adapted, collaborated and delivered against all odds. That is our superpower, and the reason for my optimism as we face the continued cost of living crisis,” added Celine. “If NI is going to truly thrive then we need to value our voluntary and community sector. We need to appreciate our sectors impact and the critical role it plays,” she said.
Addressing members of the sector in attendance, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “The Voluntary and Community Sector has a critically important role in supporting our communities and contributing to our key social, environmental and economic priorities.
“Today’s summit is an opportunity to share learning and best practice and strengthen relationships. I want to recognise the vital contribution of the sector to society and thank you for your passion and dedication to making our communities a better place for all.”
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Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added: “Today’s event provides an opportunity to recognise the work of the voluntary and community sector here and the important role of NICVA in providing support.
“The theme of “Future Thinking” for this summit is entirely fitting as it important we focus on what lies ahead and how best we can all work together to shape a brighter future for everyone.”
Pictured: NICVA CEO Celine McStravick with First Minsiter Michelle O'Neill and Deputy First Minsiter Emma Little-Pengelly
In addition to hearing from Government and NICVA leadership, delegates also attended Engagement Hub sessions hosted by NICVA member organisations which touched on prescient topics within the sector including gender equality, AI, volunteering, sustainable travel, engaging rural and newcomer communities, creating lasting social change, peacebuilding and more whilst enjoying the Immersive Learning Zone which included interactive opportunities with
innovative projects by members including Hive Cancer Support, RNIB and Theatre of Witness Network, among others.
The event also featured performances and fringe activities which showcased local diversity and creativity including the Colin Glen Men’s Shed Ukulele Band and Tunes Translated, a recently formed musicians’ collective that will perform traditional music from Ireland, Sudan, Somalia, Ukraine, and Iran. The evening reception and networking session also featured a performance from Northern Ireland's only lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans singing group, Quire, and a DJ set by Seisiún na mBan, a collective dedicated to showcasing female and female identifying DJs and Producers.
Supported by The National Lottery Community Fund, Department for Communities, Social Change Initiative, Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland, The Community Foundation and the Odyssey Trust, the conference presented speakers who provoked new thinking and provided attendees with practical support to help them thrive in an evolving landscape.
For further information visit www.nicvasummit.org
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