The new JCI term has started and safe to say it has raised the bar!!

We kicked September off with a joint summer social with RISE, a fantastic evening with graduate interns, SME employers, sponsors of the programme and JCI members from across the region. The enthusiasm of the interns to get involved with JCI was infectious and we can't wait to see them at our upcoming events.

A few days later saw us head over to Bradford for their annual dinner, which was a fitting celebration of the incredible year they have had. Sitting up on top table with my fellow Yorkshire presidents (and later, until the early hours, in the hotel foyer) was a great reminder of what a wonderful team we have in place this year. Which is lucky as we are going to be spending a LOT of time together over the next few months!

Then last Tuesday, we hosted the JCI Yorkshire debating competition. I was so proud to see a full Sheffield team of first time "volunteers", all pushing themselves out of their comfort zone and making a pretty convincing argument for alcohol free annual dinners... Sadly we were just beaten by the combined force of Barnsley and Rotherham - so I reckon that means the drinks are on them?!

Proving there is no rest for the wicked, I was up and off bright and early Friday morning for a road trip to Southampton for the JCI UK AGM and Sea City Gala dinner. Travelling down with JCI UK IPP, Emma, and Yorkshire RGC, Katie, we took in a cultural trip to Stonehenge and discussed the pros and cons of Scottish independence. Conclusion: we're keeping the flag regardless, we can't afford to replace our convention wardrobes!

After being wined and dined by our Sheffhampton buddies, we were back up after a few hours sleep to attend the AGM and National Council. This is a brilliant opportunity to catch up with other local presidents and deputies, the national board and some very keen members. Business for the day included redrafting the constitution, updates on 2014 and 2015 national conventions, and voting in some of the 2015 national board. Huge congratulations to 2015 national president Drew Charman, and deputy president Sarah Beckwith. Trust us - next year will be EPIC!

Finishing the day off at Southampton's annual dinner, we all embraced the nautical theme with gusto. Top marks to Fiona for creating an insanely good jellyfish costume out of an umbrella, flashing lights and bubble wrap! This girl REALLY needs a job on Blue Peter. Southampton have had a fabulous year with two European awards and loads of great local projects. We're so proud to have been buddied with them.

So.... what next? A little rest? No way!! We have Emotional Capitalist training on Thursday with Conor Moss, Sheffield Hallam University, followed by a very special limited edition Network Wednesday in association with the MADE entrepreneur festival.

Then, we're going to HOLLYWOOD!! Join us in all your finery on Saturday 27 September for our 87th annual dinner and let's raise a glass or two to this awesome year. There will be guests from Scotland, Ireland and across the country, fab speakers, a brilliant singer and even Oscars! Get booking before the weekend as ticket sales close on Saturday.

And if that's not enough.... why not join us for JCI Ireland National Convention (3 to 5 October), JCI Yorkshire Regional Awards dinner (11 October) or JCI Leeds annual dinner (1 November)?