More than 80 participants from 14 countries were involved in many educational, sport and craft activities that were highlighted by the wonderful autumn weather and Training Centre hospitality.
The key note speaker Solomon Benjamin focused his speech on YMCA history – present and finally future and how YMCA should adapt its future to the reality of today’s world, its expectations, demands and needs for spiritual stability and motivation. YMCA requirements its solid heartbeat going to maintain the qualities and relevancy of its programmes and responses to the community wishes.
Side meetings in the small groups gave the participants opportunity to discuss their personal involvement in the YMCA and share with their colleagues the current challenges. The high quality of all activities – some of them prepared by participants themselves – included among others detailed workshop about the life of George Williams and his impact on YMCA work, grant application session, YMCA Europe projects, YMCA175 Event and Leadership Academy information, pottery, sgraffito and many kinds of sports.
The spiritual frame of the Conference was created thanks to YE Staff member Martina Hudcovska, who arranged for her orchestra to come from Bratislava and perform some of its best music in the newly renovated Piarist Church and also with the final service that included YMCA choir formed from the participants. On the other hand the opportunities for dancing and disco were also provided.
Traditionally, not missing was the International evening that showcases the best foods and drinks from all around Europe.
The Staff Conference takes place every three years and is very much recommended to the staff members that want to meet friends and colleagues, learn new and relevant things to their work, gain a new energy to perform it and enjoy handpicked locations that offer something special from local culture. Thank you Czech Republic and see you in 2021 in Sweden!
For more fotos, check out the gallery below.
