Crossing both seas and skies to get there, earlier this month over 50 members and Senators from across JCI UK travelled to the Netherlands for the World Congress in Amsterdam. Although, a small delegation, Team JCI UK were the 12th largest delegation in attendance! And, albeit small, as usual, we were mighty! In addition to the parties, they attended leadership programmes, business tours, listened to the Keynote speech by Kofi Annan, and not only attended training sessions, but ran them as well! Our very own Deputy President Elect, Mark Smith, delivered sessions on Effective Leadership and Top Tips for Running a Chamber. One session with a particularly large JCI UK delegation was the First Timer’s session. We had so many members attending their first World Congress this year! Our members also volunteered their time and I, personally, would like to say a massive thank you to the delegates who supported our Global Village stand, which was a huge success. Who would have thought we would run out of tonic water before we ran out of gin! For me, Global Village and the pre-gala reception, were absolute highlights. With such a packed programme of events, I love it when the delegation gets chance to spend time and celebrate together. In addition to this conference itself, we were treated to further insights into the 2018 World Congress in Goa, and the 2018 European Conference in Riga. These both look to be great events! For anyone looking to attend EC in Riga, it is worth nothing that the Early Bird rate ends on 11th December. One thing that puzzles me, however, is that the role for 2018 JCI UK International Director has not been filled yet! With such a great delegation and amazing conferences coming up, I can’t imagine why this hasn’t been snapped up! If you would be interested in standing to take on my role next year, please contact National President Elect, Ben Hawley on ben.hawley@jciuk.org.uk. Alternatively, if you would like to know a bit more about what the role entails first, please contact me on katie.ogley@jciuk.org.uk. Katie Ogley International Director, 2017