Ross is Heading to World Council 2026

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, explore challenges, and shape the future of the movement.

In July 2026, YMCA Fairthorne Group will be part of that global conversation, with a delegation travelling to Toronto to represent the organisation and bring insight back to our teams.

Among them is Ross Owen, Marketing & Communications Manager, whose role focuses on how YMCA Fairthorne Group is seen, understood, and experienced by the wider public.

“My role focuses on external marketing across the organisation,” Ross explains. “That means not only encouraging people to access our services and get involved but also shaping how we’re seen by the wider public. Brand plays a huge part in that – it’s how people understand who we are and what we stand for.”

Seeing the Bigger Picture

For Ross, the decision to apply was driven by both curiosity and opportunity.

“It felt like an incredible opportunity,” he says. “I’ve already found real value in working with colleagues across the UK, so I thought – if that’s beneficial, imagine what I could learn from an international perspective.”

While Canada itself was a draw, it was the chance to connect globally that stood out most.

“The opportunity to learn from colleagues across the YMCA movement was too good to miss.”

A Proud Moment

Finding out he had been selected came as something of a surprise.

“Honestly, I wasn’t sure what my chances would be,” Ross shares. “But I’m always willing to put myself forward and give things a go.” That mindset paid off – and the opportunity has not been lost on him.

“I felt really grateful, and excited, to be able to travel, learn, and represent the organisation alongside other colleagues.”

For Ross, representing Fairthorne carries real meaning.

“It’s something I’m really proud of. It’s not just about representing our organisation, but the work we do every day to support people in our communities.”

Learning from Others

At the heart of Ross’s focus is understanding how others operate – and what can be learned.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing how other countries engage with their communities and deliver services,” he says. “Understanding different perspectives and seeing what works well elsewhere is incredibly valuable.”

His interest spans several areas, including marketing, fundraising, and service delivery.

“I’m particularly interested in fundraising, marketing, organisational support, and Early Years provision – especially daycare, which Canada has a strong track record in.”

Fresh Thinking

For Ross, one of the biggest opportunities lies in challenging familiar ways of working and staying open to new approaches.

“There’s always a risk of doing things the way we’ve always done them,” he says. “So, it’s important to stay open to new ideas and different ways of thinking.”

The goal is simple: come back with ideas that can make a difference.

“If I can return with even a few ideas that help us improve or think differently, that will be a real success.”

A Broader Perspective

Ross expects the experience to influence how he approaches his work moving forward.

“It’s about stepping outside of our usual way of working and being open to new ideas and possibilities,” he explains. “Learning from others helps challenge assumptions and spark innovation.”

A Message to Colleagues

For Ross, one of the most important takeaways is recognising the scale of the YMCA movement.

“It’s easy to focus on our own site and the work we see day to day,” he says. “But we’re part of something much bigger.” And that connection matters.

“The YMCA is a global movement making a real, positive impact on people’s lives all over the world. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of – and it’s something I often share with friends and family.”