From 17-19 February 2025, the National General Secretaries (NGS) of YMCAs worldwide gathered in Düsseldorf, Germany. Hosted by YMCA Germany, the event brought together 45 YMCA leaders from across the globe to strengthen collaboration, share insights, and advance the YMCA Vision 2030 strategy.
Over three days, the leaders debated topics shaping the future of the YMCA Movement. Conversations ranged from Movement alignment and governance to funding strategies and youth engagement, ensuring that every YMCA—regardless of size or location—can contribute meaningfully to our shared global vision.
Special attention was given to preparations for the 2026 YMCA World Council in Toronto several governance topics regarding the elections to the Executive Committee, ensuring better coordination internationally under the “One Movement” concept, and other membership issues.
A key focus of the meeting was YMCA Vision 2030, which continues to unite YMCAs under its four strategic Pillars: Community Wellbeing, Meaningful Work, Sustainable Planet, and Just World. Leaders reflected on successes, tackled challenges, and exchanged best practices, reinforcing the YMCA’s role as a force for positive change worldwide. The meeting also highlighted the importance of local-to-global impact, with national strategies aligning to create a cohesive and measurable global movement. It was also noted and celebrated that over 70 National YMCAs are now engaging in various ways with YMCA Vision 2030.
The group also explored the work of the Strategic Alignment and Movement Strengthening (SAMS) Global Team, outlining the key deliverables for 2025 and the overall strategy for better coordination. Additionally, discussions took place about how we can further enhance and learn from each other’s experiences in organisational development.
The group also had the opportunity to visit YMCA Oberhausen, and its House of Young People, a youth center designed to serve the community with innovative programs and services. The group also explored the YMCA Truck, a mobile youth centre which brings YMCA programs directly to young people. These visits showcased how YMCAs are adapting to local needs and creating spaces of belonging for youth.
The meeting was not just about strategy and operations; it was also about strengthening relationships and building more agile leadership.
“The spirit of collaboration and shared purpose was evident, reminding everyone that the YMCA is more than an organization—it is a global family”, said Carlos Sanvee, World YMCA Secretary General.
“As we live in an increasingly uncertain and complex world, it is becoming essential to stand together for the values we believe in. During our meeting in Dusseldorf I felt strongly that in the YMCA Movement we are all on a shared journey. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to YMCA Germany for its warm hospitality and impeccable organization.”