Last week, the Y Australia team joined more than 1,300 delegates from over 100 countries in Toronto for the 21st YMCA World Council. Held every four years, World Council is a unique opportunity for YMCA movements from around the world to come together to learn, collaborate and celebrate the impact we’re creating in our communities.
Dancers, musicians and cultural ceremonies were held throughout the week.
It is a powerful reminder that while every Y responds to the unique needs of its local community, we are united by a shared purpose and a global vision for a better future. This year’s theme, Transform, reflected our collective journey towards Vision 2030 and the progress being made across its four pillars of impact: Community Wellbeing, Just World, Meaningful Work and Sustainable Planet.
Throughout the week, our team took part in workshops, panel discussions and showcases alongside colleagues from across the global movement. We shared ideas, explored new approaches to common challenges and learned from inspiring projects that are creating positive change in communities around the world.
Change Agents
Global Change Agents from Cohort 6.0 connected with peers and presented their projects at the Toronto World Council.
One of the highlights of the week was celebrating the graduation of the Global Change Agents Cohort 6.0. These passionate young leaders have spent the past year developing projects that are making a real difference in their communities. We were especially proud to celebrate the achievements of the Y Australia Global Change Agents, whose leadership reflects the strength, creativity and commitment of young people across our movement.
The Y movement in Australia was also recognised on the global stage, with Y Queensland and Y Whittlesea named finalists in the World YMCA Impact Awards for their outstanding work delivering Y Community Schools. Their recognition is a testament to the life-changing impact these schools have in supporting young people to reconnect with learning, build confidence and create brighter futures.
Leadership Announcement
Christopher Lewis was elected as World YMCA President for 2026-2030.
World Council also marked an important moment in the governance of the global movement with the election of a new World YMCA Executive Committee. Y Australia warmly congratulates the incoming leadership and is especially proud to see long-serving Y Australia Board member Christopher Lewis elected as World YMCA President for 2026–2030.
Christopher brings decades of leadership experience, a deep commitment to safeguarding and youth empowerment, and a clear vision for strengthening our global movement. His appointment reflects not only his dedication to the YMCA, but also Australia’s ongoing contribution to the future of the movement as we continue working together towards Vision 2030.
Global Connection
Y Australia CEO Alex Ash speaking at World Council.
Perhaps the greatest takeaway from World Council was something much simpler. In the rhythm of our day-to-day work, it’s easy to become focused on the communities immediately around us. World Council reminded us that every local program, every conversation, every young person supported and every community strengthened is part of something much bigger.
Since 1844, the YMCA has been bringing people together to respond to the changing needs of communities around the world. More than 180 years later, that purpose remains as relevant as ever.
The challenges we face may look different from one country to the next, but our commitment is shared: creating communities where everyone can belong, contribute and thrive. Together, we are transforming communities, supporting young people and building a stronger, more just future for generations to come.
That’s the power of the Y.