World Council is the biggest moment in the global YMCA Calendar: an unforgettable week of connection, strategy, learning, sharing – and fun.

We’re aiming to gather over 1,000 YMCA leaders, staff, volunteers, and partners from around the world to explore how we ourselves need to transform, in a transforming world.

Together, we shape the next chapter of our shared YMCA journey, towards the delivery of Vision 2030 and beyond.

‘Early Bird’ registration runs from 29 July 2025 to 19 December 2025

  • Our hosts

    The YMCA in Canada is a charity that ignites the potential in over 2 million people annually, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. Across Canada, there are 37 YMCA Member Associations, supported by YMCA Canada, the national office, that work together so all Canadians can shine on. | More

    With over 170 years of impact and now serving more than 500 locations, the YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity dedicated to igniting potential in people. It provides inclusive programs and boosts well-being and promotes equity across communities. | More

  • Our host city

    Toronto, Canada’s largest city is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, flavours, and experiences. Unique neighbourhoods bustle with restaurants, cafes, bakeries, independent shops, markets, and parks. Toronto is home to many attractions from the soaring CN Tower to the serene Toronto Islands. Most importantly, it’s a place where diversity isn’t just celebrated — it’s the city’s heartbeat. | More

  • YMCA Vision 2030

    Vision 2030 is the global YMCA Movement’s shared strategy to empower young people and strengthen communities worldwide. Guided by our mission and values, it’s built on four Pillars of Impact:

    Community Wellbeing, Meaningful Work, Sustainable Planet, Just World | More

Key Dates

6 February 2025

Visa pre-registration opens

28 July 2025

‘Early Bird’
registration launches

19 December 2025

‘Early Bird’ registration closes

2025-2026

Programme details gradually released

1 January 2026

Standard registration opens

17 June 2026

Registration closes

19-25 July 2026

21st YMCA World Council

A World Council both celebrates and accelerates the progress we are making to deliver on YMCA Vision 2030. It’s a unique chance to share – within this global Movement, and with the growing numbers of partners who work with us.

It's a chance to witness and learn from our host country and our YMCA hosts – this time, with YMCA Canada and the YMCA of Greater Toronto. The 21st YMCA World Council will be just as special as those which have gone before.

Carlos Sanvee, World YMCA Secretary General

Programme Overview

We’re creating a dynamic programme with main events, interactive sessions, and inspiring voices from inside and beyond the YMCA.

Stay tuned as more details are added!

Sunday 19 July

  • Arrivals

  • Governance

Monday 20 July

  • Opening Ceremony

  • Governance

Tuesday 21 July

  • Excursions in/around Toronto

Wednesday 22 July

  • Vision 2030 Deep Dive: The Four Pillars

Thursday 23 July

  • Vision 2030 Deep Dive: The Four Pillars

Friday 24 July

  • Vision 2030 Deep Dive: The Four Pillars

  • Awards & Closing Ceremony