Claire Rush (CEO/GS), Emma Bowie (Chair) and Shalom Daniel-Ochonma (Board member) represented YWCA Ireland.
Representing YWCA Ireland at the European YWCA General Assembly in Helsinki in May 2026 was an opportunity to strengthen our connections across Europe, share experiences and contribute to shaping the future of the European YWCA movement as well as an opportunity to be inspired by our European sisters.
From 21–24 May 2026, we joined around 30 delegates in person, alongside a further 10 participants online, for the European YWCA General Assembly, hosted by YWCA Finland in Helsinki. Held every three years, the Assembly brings member associations together to reflect on their work, make important decisions and agree on shared priorities for the future.
For YWCA Ireland, it was a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues from across Europe, learn about the work taking place in different countries and contribute to a movement committed to advancing women’s rights and supporting young women’s leadership.
Pre-assembly visit to Queendom, an innovative community space for girls and young women in a suburb of Helsinki, which is part of Suomen NNKY-liitto (The YWCA of Finland).
Building connections across Europe
The General Assembly offered much more than formal meetings and decision-making. Throughout the weekend, we had opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas and celebrate the diversity of the European YWCA community.
The programme began with a walking tour of Helsinki led by a YWCA Finland Board member, followed by a Japanese buffet dinner. Friday’s pre-conference activities included a visit to Queendom project, an innovative community space for girls and young women in a suburb of Helsinki, which is part of the Suomen NNKY-liitto (The YWCA of Finland).
On Saturday, the formal General Assembly business began, with delegates considering and approving the annual report, financial statements, budget and constitutional amendments, as well as participating in election hustings.
Getting down to the business of equipping and empowering women and pushing back against the pushback on women’s rights.
The day concluded with a social and cultural evening celebrating food and traditions from across Europe. We were delighted to share a little of Irish culture by (attempting) to teach fellow delegates some Irish dancing. These informal moments were an important reminder of the strength of our movement: while our organisations work in different national contexts, we share a commitment to supporting women and young women, learning from one another and working together towards a more equal world.
Reflecting on the experience, Shalom (one of our Board members) said:
‘The highlight of my weekend was meeting so many great women (and man) from all over Europe. I enjoyed getting to know everyone, listening to how they operated in their countries and sharing ideas. I was especially moved by how encouraging everyone was.’
Some of the new European Board including representatives from Norway, Italy, Finland, Ukraine, Scotland, Belgium, Sweden and Ireland
A new European YWCA Board
One of the key outcomes of the Assembly was the election of a full eight-member European YWCA Board, including two co-presidents - Marta (Norway) and Jo (Italy) and a Treasurer -Fatimah from Scotland.
The new Board brings together representatives from Norway, Italy, Finland, Ukraine, Scotland, Belgium, Sweden and Ireland.
We’re delighted that our Chief Executive, Dr Claire Rush, was elected to the Board for 2026-29. Claire brings 20 years of experience of working with international charities to develop advocacy strategies, create initiatives to empower younger women in leadership and organise global events. We’re excited to see how God will use her skills and expertise in this role.
For YWCA Ireland, having representation from Ireland on the European Board is an important connection between our national work and the wider European movement. It provides an opportunity to contribute to shared discussions, strengthen collaboration and help shape the direction of the movement over the coming years.
Shaping the next three years: European YWCA’s strategic priorities
A significant outcome of the General Assembly was the adoption of a new strategic plan for 2026–2029. The plan establishes five priorities to guide the European YWCA’s work and strengthen its collective impact.
1. Organisational sustainability and capacity
Strengthening governance, securing sustainable funding and building the capacity needed to deliver programmes effectively.
2. Advocacy and external representation
Increasing the European YWCA’s visibility and influence in promoting women’s rights and feminist perspectives.
3. Strengthening the movement and member engagement
Building stronger connections, collaboration and participation among member associations.
4. Leadership development and programmes for young women
Expanding opportunities for young women to develop their leadership skills through training, mentoring and joint programmes.
5. Solidarity and responses to emerging challenges
Fostering solidarity across the movement and supporting collective responses to social and political challenges.
A highlight was making new connections and building new relationships in beautiful Helsinki.
Looking ahead: Stronger together
Our time at the European YWCA General Assembly in Helsinki reinforced the importance of international connection, shared learning and solidarity, especially during a time of pushback against women’s rights.
A big thank you to YWCA Finland who hosted us at its wonderful Hotel Helka, a historic property dating back to 1928, when the YWCA of Finland launched a safe accommodation and community hub for young women moving to Helsinki for work and education.
As YWCA Ireland, we return from the General Assembly with a renewed appreciation of the strength of being part of a wider movement. By working together across borders, we can strengthen our movement, amplify our voices and create more opportunities for women and young women to lead and make a difference.
Please join us in continuing to pray for the work of YWCA across Ireland, Europe and beyond.
Emma Bowie – Chair
Shalom Daniel-Ochonma – Board member
Claire Rush – CEO/GS