Mark your calendars for the upcoming RYA Connected Conferences in 2025
2025 RYA Connected Conferences Set to Empower the Future of Sport Leadership
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is gearing up for the 2025 Connected Conferences, a series of events aimed at developing the next generation of leaders in the sport. These conferences, scheduled to take place on two Saturdays in November, will bring together individuals from clubs and class associations across the UK.
Empowering Volunteers
The conferences, which are free to attend, are open to anyone currently leading in the organization or governance of a club or class association, or those who aspire to do so in the future. The goal is to help upskill a broader range of volunteers to feel empowered to contribute their energy and ideas to the sport's growth and development.
Nationwide Events
The 2025 conferences will take place at various locations, with the first two events scheduled for Newforge Sports Complex, Belfast, Northern Ireland, on 8 November, and Lightcliffe Academy, Huddersfield, North of England, on 15 November. Further details about the remaining locations will be announced in the autumn.
Networking and Knowledge Sharing
By attending the conferences, participants can network with peers and guest speakers, share ideas, and gain practical advice. The conferences aim to provide new insights and inspiration to take back to one's club, class, or setting.
RYA Cymru Wales’ Big Weekend
In addition to the Connected Conferences, RYA Cymru Wales will host the Big Weekend on 11-12 October 2025. Further details about this event will be announced in due course.
Online Connect Forum Calls
RYA Scotland is also hosting a series of online Connect Forum Calls starting in September, focusing on topics relevant to clubs in Scotland, such as abandoned boats, funding applications, and more.
Community Leadership and Volunteer Empowerment
The conferences emphasize community leadership, governance, policy support, and volunteer empowerment to ensure the sport's future vitality and sustainability. RYA’s partner HotelPlanner offers special rates for accommodation during these events.
Stay Connected
RYA Scotland is seeking feedback from the community on what they'd like to see in future gatherings. Let the development team know by emailing [email protected].
For the latest updates and information about the 2025 RYA Connected Conferences, visit the RYA website or follow them on social media.
[1] Source: RYA website
2025 RYA Connected Conferences: Key Dates and Focus
| Date | Venue | Focus / Agenda Highlights | |--------------------|--------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------| | 8 Nov 2025 | Newforge Sports Complex, Belfast | Developing future sport leaders; volunteer upskilling; community sharing | | 15 Nov 2025 | Lightcliffe Academy, Huddersfield | Same as above; practical advice and peer networking |
