More than 500 leaders, practitioners, volunteers, policymakers and community activists gathered at the ICC in Belfast on 10th June for the NICVA Summit 2026, Northern Ireland’s flagship event for the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. Guided by the themes “Inspire, Connect and Strengthen“, the Summit created a vibrant space for dialogue, learning and collaboration at a time when communities face increasing social and economic challenges.
The event was expertly compered by broadcaster and former BBC presenter, Sarah Travers, whose warmth and professionalism helped maintain a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
The keynote address was delivered by Matt Whittaker, Chief Executive of Pro Bono Economics, who spoke on “Between Crisis and Possibility – The Real State of Civil Society.” He explored the pressures facing charities and community organisations across the UK, while highlighting the crucial role that civil society plays in responding to growing social needs and shaping public policy.
The programme combined keynote presentations with interactive Engagement Hubs, networking opportunities, exhibitions and panel discussions. Delegates were able to choose from a wide range of workshops covering issues such as tackling poverty, children’s participation, peacebuilding, inclusion, community health, environmental leadership, AI and employability, ageing, social value, and ending violence against women and girls.
Among the many organisations contributing to the discussions were East Belfast Community Development Agency, Save the Children, Young at Art, the 174 Trust, IMPACTAgewell, Women’s Aid, Ulster GAA, Disability Action, Cancer Focus NI, National Trust, Marie Curie, Enterprise North West and many others. Their participation reflected the remarkable breadth and diversity of Northern Ireland’s community sector.
The spirit of the day was captured in comments shared on social media. NICVA celebrated “a fantastic morning of Engagement Hubs” where discussions on poverty, children’s participation, inclusion, wellbeing and partnership working had “sparked important conversations and shared learning from across the sector.” Meanwhile, Belfast City Council’s Go Social Programme noted the “great buzz” of the event and the many new connections being formed.
A particularly significant session explored the theme “Creating Circles of Change in a Polarised World, led by Tim MAgowan of the 174 Trust. Drawing on peacebuilding experience from Northern Ireland and beyond, participants reflected on how storytelling, relationships and shared action can help bridge divisions and build stronger communities.
The Summit concluded with a panel discussion entitled “From Survival to System Change” featuring leaders from business, academia, funding bodies and the voluntary sector.
Among those attending was Irene Jovaras from the Belfast Focolare community, who appreciated both the positive atmosphere and the commitment to collaboration. Reflecting on the day, she said: “It’s inspiring to be here at the NICVA Summit, meeting familiar faces and making new connections. In the wake of the tragic events in Belfast yesterday*, there has been a strong sense of solidarity and condemnation of violence. What stands out today is the determination to keep sowing seeds of hope by working together. There has been a real focus on measuring impact, sharing stories and learning from one another so that our communities can flourish.”
*The reference to “yesterday’s tragic events” relates to a serious violent incident in Belfast on 8–9 June 2026, in which a man was critically injured in a knife attack in north Belfast. The incident led to significant public concern and was followed by unrest and disorder in parts of the city, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for calm from civic and political leaders.