Community First Yorkshire’s leadership and collaboration conference, Create 26, is in full swing after a lively and inspiring start at Pavilions of Harrogate.

In a new short video from the day, Jane Colthup, Chief Executive of Community First Yorkshire, reflects on what she described as a “fantastic morning” at the halfway point of the conference. Jane highlighted the energy in the room and the impact of the opening keynote from Kate Lee OBE, Chief Executive of NCVO.

Create 26 brings together people from across North Yorkshire’s voluntary, community and social enterprise sector to explore leadership, collaboration and the future of the sector.

The video captures some of the activity and conversations taking place throughout the day, from data storytelling and impact measurement to AI tools for charities and safeguarding.

Delegates also heard from organisations sharing practical tools and support, including ways to gather insight, showcase impact and strengthen the systems charities use to manage their work.

The morning also included input from the North Yorkshire Safeguarding Adults Board, highlighting the importance of partnership working across health, adult services, police and the VCSE sector to help prevent abuse of adults with care and support needs.

With workshops, panels and further conversations continuing into the afternoon, Create 26 is giving people across the sector a chance to step back, connect with others and look ahead with fresh ideas.

The conference has been designed to support organisations to feel more confident, connected and ready for what comes next, while celebrating the creativity and leadership already thriving across North Yorkshire’s communities.