A new video from Community First Yorkshire is highlighting one of the most valuable parts of Create 26 — the chance for people from across North Yorkshire’s voluntary and community sector to come together, learn from each other and celebrate the work they do.

Taking place on Thursday 21 May at the Pavilions of Harrogate, Create 26 will bring together people from across the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector for a day of creativity, collaboration and future-focused thinking.

In the video, Stephen Biggs of Just the Job reflects on the importance of shared learning and connection in the sector.

“It’s a great opportunity to meet similar-minded people who are doing similar work, come together and learn new things,” he says.

Stephen highlights the value of hearing how others are approaching the same challenges — and being honest about what works and what does not.

“[It’s a chance to] learn how things are being done the same, or how things have been done differently. The good and the bad,” he says.

He also points to the power of exchanging knowledge and building relationships that can last beyond the day itself.

“Sometimes [it’s about] passing that knowledge across, and then making new connections, reawakening old connections, and just celebrating the work that our sector does.”

That sense of pride and shared purpose is at the heart of Create 26, which has been designed to give people space to reflect, connect and look ahead together.

Through keynote speakers, workshops, panel discussions and creative sessions, the conference will explore leadership, collaboration and the future of the sector in North Yorkshire.

Stephen sums up the spirit of the event in his own way: “Banging the drum a little bit.”

Create 26 is open to anyone working or volunteering in North Yorkshire’s VCSE sector, whether they lead organisations, coordinate projects, support communities or help make things happen behind the scenes.

📅 Thursday 21 May

📍 Pavilions of Harrogate

🎟 Book your place:

https://book.plinth.org.uk/e/X64w6gvy66HrET332OFc