Every four years, the global YMCA movement comes together for one of its most significant gatherings – the YMCA World Council. Bringing together colleagues, leaders and delegates from across more than 100 countries, it is a space to share learning, reflect on challenges, and help shape the future direction of the movement.
In July 2026, YMCA Fairthorne Group will be part of that global conversation, with a delegation of colleagues travelling to Toronto to represent the organisation and bring insight back to our teams.
Among them is Ben Cooper, People Partner, whose role centres on supporting colleagues across the organisation to grow, develop and thrive.
“I focus on supporting colleagues across the organisation to grow and develop, while also making sure our values are lived out day to day,” Ben explains. “I really enjoy being part of a charity where the work we do with and for people genuinely matters.”
Connecting Local to Global
For Ben, applying to attend World Council was about stepping beyond the day-to-day and seeing the bigger picture.
“I was motivated by the opportunity to connect our local work at Fairthorne to the wider global YMCA movement,” he says. “It felt like a rare chance to step back, reflect, and understand how our shared values and challenges are being experienced across different countries and cultures.”
Alongside that, there was a clear desire to learn, and to bring that learning back.
“I was keen to learn from others and bring fresh thinking back to Fairthorne. And of course… Toronto was a bit too exciting to ignore.”
A Moment of Pride
Being selected through a rigorous application process made the opportunity even more meaningful.
“I felt a real mix of excitement and pride,” Ben shares. “It was genuinely affirming to be trusted to represent Fairthorne on a global stage. I’m very aware that it’s a privilege, and that made it feel even more meaningful.”
For Ben, the experience represents both personal and professional growth.
“YMCA Fairthorne Group has a strong identity and set of values, and I feel proud to carry that with me,” he says. “It’s also a chance to step outside my usual context, learn from other cultures, and celebrate the work our teams do every day.”
Learning from the Wider Movement
At the heart of the experience is connection.
“I’m really looking forward to hearing people’s stories and understanding the different contexts they work in,” Ben says. “There’s so much value in seeing how others approach similar challenges.”
His focus will naturally centre on people and culture.
“I’m particularly interested in leadership, people development, and how YMCAs are responding to change – especially around workforce challenges, inclusion, wellbeing, and supporting young people in increasingly complex environments.”
Bringing It Back to Fairthorne
While the experience itself is significant, the impact will be felt long after the event.
“I’d love to bring back ideas around people practice and culture, as well as a stronger connection to the global YMCA story,” Ben explains. “Even small insights about how others approach similar challenges could be really valuable for us.”
He also sees the experience shaping how he approaches his role moving forward.
“I think it will broaden my perspective and help me think more confidently about our long-term people strategy, leadership development, and how we embed our values in everyday practice.”
A Message to Colleagues
For others across YMCA Fairthorne Group, Ben’s message is simple:
“When opportunities come up to learn more about the wider YMCA movement, put your name in the hat. That’s what I did – and I’m so excited about what this experience could bring back into my day-to-day work.”
This is just the beginning of the journey.
Over the coming months, we’ll continue to share insights from colleagues attending the YMCA World Council, and following the event, the learning and experiences they bring back to YMCA Fairthorne Group.
Because while our work happens locally, it is part of a global movement – and the impact of that connection is something we all share.
