The Change Agent Global Gathering, held 20-21 October 2024 at the YMCA Accelerator Summit in Mombasa, Kenya, was two days packed with teamwork, deep conversations aimed at empowering future leaders, and of course, fun. From icebreakers to reflective sessions, every activity was designed to connect, inspire, and build long-lasting friendships. It capped the end of a remarkable journey spanning almost two years.
Day 1: Team building and empowerment
The day began with opening remarks from World YMCA President Soheila Hayek and Secretary General Carlos Sanvee. They were joined by Ronald Senghore of The Gambia YMCA, a member of Change Agent cohort 3, who now serves on the World YMCA Executive Committee and chairs the Governance Committee.
Warm introductions and icebreakers, led by Change Agents, helped everyone get acquainted and set the tone for a collaborative experience. Soon after, the group tackled Collaborative Challenges designed to push their boundaries and strengthen group bonds.
“After a year of only virtual contact, it was amazing to get in touch with people physically and share this amazing moment and get to know each other better”, said Geraldine Maier, YMCA Switzerland.
The cohort’s achievements were celebrated in an engaging session led by three Change Agents. The group reflected on the programme’s impact over the past year and a half, discussing how it has influenced their communities, their local YMCAs, and their personal growth.
In the afternoon, two sessions were held. The first highlighted the cohort’s strengths and challenges as they prepared for the Accelerator Summit and beyond. The second, on Communication Skills, focused on improving public speaking and active listening through elevator pitches and constructive feedback.
The day concluded with a fun team-building activity by the beach, followed by a special evening of cultural exchange. Participants shared their countries’ traditional dances, costumes, food, and the work of their local YMCAs.
