Our YMCA of Cape Breton on a Global Stage

We are proud to share that representatives from the YMCA of Cape Breton, including staff and board members, attended the 21st YMCA World Council in Toronto from July 19th to 25th. This is the first time this global gathering has been hosted in Canada.

More than 1,400 YMCA staff and volunteers from nearly 100 countries came together to connect, learn, and collaborate around a shared vision for stronger communities and a better world.

A special highlight for our team was being selected to facilitate one of the conference’s 90-minute learning sessions, showcasing our innovative approach to employee engagement and leadership development. Our “Employee Engagement Test Kitchen” welcomed more than 70 delegates from around the world who were eager to learn about the work happening right here in Cape Breton. We were also honoured to participate in an international panel discussion focused on the YMCA’s Meaningful Work pillar and how our experiences are helping shape stronger workplaces and communities.

Throughout the week, delegates explored the YMCA Vision 2030 pillars: Community Well-Being, Meaningful Work, Sustainable Planet, and Just World. Together, we shared ideas, challenges, and solutions that strengthen our collective impact across the globe.

World Council was a powerful reminder that while our communities may look different, our purpose remains the same: creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.

We are grateful to represent Cape Breton on the world stage and proud to be part of a global movement working toward a more just, sustainable, and healthy world for all.