Finding Confidence and Connection at the YMCA World Conference: A Q&A with Sade Walters

Sade Walters attended the YMCA World Conference in Canada as a YMCA Change Agent, representing YMCA England & Wales and YMCA St Paul’s Group. The conference brought together YMCA colleagues, volunteers and young people from across the world to exchange ideas and explore how the movement can continue to help communities thrive.  We spoke to Sade about the experience, the ideas that inspired her and why every voice matters. 

What motivated you to attend the YMCA World Conference?

“I saw it as a brilliant opportunity to connect with people, learn about the work of YMCAs in other countries and be inspired by what they are achieving.

“An important part of the experience was also graduating from the World YMCA Change Agent programme as a member of Cohort 6. The conference gave me the chance to celebrate that achievement while learning more about the wider YMCA movement.”

What were your first impressions when you arrived?

“As an introverted person, arriving at such a large international event initially felt quite daunting. However, the welcome was immediate. Volunteers helped direct us when we arrived, and everyone was friendly and supportive.

“Seeing colleagues from YMCA St Paul’s Group also helped me feel more comfortable and excited about the week ahead. There was a real sense that we were all part of the same community, even when people were meeting for the first time.”

Which conference session stayed with you the most?

“One of the most memorable sessions focused on a music programme for young people in Hong Kong. The programme gives young people an opportunity to create music inspired by their experiences and share it with a wider audience.

“What stayed with me was its message that even when someone feels small or believes their voice does not matter, they never know who may be listening. The programme was not simply about taking part in an activity. It created opportunities for young people to develop their talent and progress beyond the programme itself.”

Were there any other projects that inspired you?

“I was also inspired by a discussion about helping young people move towards education and employment through the Learn to Earn programme.

“The conversation explored how employment support must reflect the different needs of young people around the world. Not every community has the same economy, resources or opportunities, and not every young person wants to follow the same path.

“Some communities may be focused on agriculture or long-established family businesses, for example, rather than office-based or digital careers. It was a valuable reminder that programmes should begin with what is relevant to the people and communities they are designed to support.”

What did you learn about the challenges facing YMCAs around the world?

“The conference highlighted inequalities in access to opportunities. Some YMCA Change Agents were unable to attend their graduation because of travel costs or visa difficulties.

“There were also important conversations about digital inclusion. While new technology offers many possibilities, not every young person has access to a laptop, computer or the infrastructure needed to participate.

“This raised a bigger question for me: what does belonging really mean? If we are committed to welcoming everyone, we must think carefully about who might be excluded as organisations and technology develop. Progress should remain connected to our mission and values, rather than being pursued simply because everyone else is doing it.”

How did the conference help you see the work of YMCA St Paul’s Group in an international context?

“It showed me that we are one part of a much bigger global movement.

“Our delegation was smaller than some of the others, but people were genuinely interested in the breadth of work delivered by YMCA St Paul’s Group. It reminded me that impact is not only about having the largest numbers. It is about understanding your mission, delivering it well and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

“Although different YMCAs work at different scales and respond to different local needs, we can all learn from and inspire one another.” 

What was your favourite moment?

“The opening ceremony was a real highlight. It featured music, dance and cultural performances representing different communities from around the world.

“It was powerful to see people proudly sharing where they came from while everyone else listened, celebrated and supported them. For that moment, the focus was entirely on connection, culture and the sense of community we shared.”

How will you apply what you learnt?

“One practical lesson was the importance of organisation. It was an incredibly busy week, so I had to plan my time carefully and stay on top of everything happening around me.

The experience helped me simplify how I organise my day. I realised that being organised does not necessarily mean having endless reminders and lists. Sometimes a few clear priorities are much more effective. That is something I can use both at work and in my personal life.”

What is the main message you would share with someone considering attending a future conference?

“Never feel that you are not needed or that you have nothing to contribute. Your opinion matters and your voice deserves to be heard.

“At the conference, people actively wanted to meet one another, exchange ideas and learn from different experiences. It created a genuine sense of belonging and showed that everyone has something valuable to bring.

“If you have the opportunity to attend, I would encourage you to take it. It is a chance to connect with others, build your confidence and be part of a community that wants to learn and grow together.”

Why should people get involved in YMCA youth leadership opportunities?

“Taking part in the Change Agent programme gave me the chance to represent YMCA England & Wales and YMCA St Paul’s Group, meet people from across the movement and contribute to conversations on an international stage.

Opportunities like youth ambassador and Change Agent programmes can place you in rooms with people you might never otherwise meet. They also give you the space to explore your own abilities.

For me, the experience helped me build confidence, step beyond my comfort zone and recognise the value of my own voice. I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to get involved.”