From December 14 to 17, our YMCA Europe Communications and Partnerships team had the chance to connect and discuss strategies, as well as meet in person in a fantastic setting at the newly established YMCA Romania Hub.
The meeting brought together our decentralised team and offered an opportunity for everyone to chat, focus on the to-dos for the upcoming programs and projects, develop the framework for our strategic implementation of our programmatic work, advocacy initiatives, and development of our communications and partnerships.
The team also had the chance to connect with Alina Pop, Secretary General of YMCA Romania, and Chief Service Executive of YMCA Europe – delving into meetings, discussions and fruitful sessions on our strategic guidelines and cross-department collaboration.
The agenda focused on several key themes, including:
- a review of the partnerships and future perspectives for 2025,
- the development of the youth leadership network within the EYRN and Advocacy framework,
- programme implementation for newly granted projects,
- team dynamics and support,
- the creation of the first-ever Digital Ecosystem Framework and Digital White Paper, and
- strategies to expand our capacity across all areas of work.
Another important item on the agenda was the Refugee Skilling and Support Project supported by Accenture, developing the next steps, wrapping up the final takes of the program, and witnessing the ongoing developments of the Hub in Romania.
During our stay, we had the privilege to meet the young volunteers of the national office, as well as the beneficiaries of the services the YMCA is providing – especially the local Ukrainian community. We were spellbound by the services the professional staff team is delivering in the format of psycho-social support and empowerment, as well as the upskilling and youth-focused sessions for the younger participants at the hub.
We are grateful for having the chance to connect with our team, discover the Hub and the work the team is doing in Romania, and prep the strategy for 2025—with more exciting programs and opportunities to follow!
