JCI UK National Conference (NATCON) 2026 is our flagship event of the year, bringing together JCI members from across Europe for a weekend of leadership development and celebration.

This year’s theme, “Tradition Meets 2026”, blends the best of JCI opportunities with what young leaders want today.

Expect a mix of sessions from JCI Senators, established leaders from Sheffield and inspiring young people. The programme is designed by and for young people to energise and develop attendees.

Whether you are new to JCI or an experienced member, JCI UK NATCON offers practical workshops, interactive learning and opportunities to step outside your comfort zone. From extempore speaking to structured debates and leadership discussions, you’ll leave with confidence and tangible skills.

You’ll build skills in:

• Leadership and decision-making
• Public speaking and communication
• Debating and critical thinking
• Confidence and personal impact
• Running and leading within JCI

Alongside the learning, NATCON is also a space to celebrate achievements from the past year and recognise the impact made across local organisations. The Gala Dinner and awards ceremony is a highlight of the JCI UK calendar.

What’s included:
Friday programme:

Friday Veune Address: Unit 8, LYKKE, 11 New Era Square, Sheffield S2 4RB

15:00- 16:00:  Registration open

16:15- 16:45: Opening induction 

16:15-16:45: Keynote Speaker Sarah Brown JCI UK Senator - Build a Career to make a Difference 

17:00-18:00: Public Speaking Workshop Ilona Alcock JCI UK Senator 

18:00-19:00: Extempore Hosted by Rachel Garner 

19:00-19:30: Introduction NATCON Weekend Challenge 

19:30-22:00: Food, Socialise and Network 

Saturday programme:

Veune Address: Showroom Cinema  Paternoster Row  Sheffield City Centre, S1 2BX

8:00-10:00: Breakfast in Hotel

10:00-10:15: Welcome & Weekend challenge reminder 

10:15-10:45: Keynote Speaker Chrissy Meleady MBE, CEO Equalities and Human Rights UK

10:45-11:15 Break 

11:15-12:15: Phoebe Benta JCI UK Senator and JCI UK 2021 National President- Personal values and leadership styles, exploring who we are during challenging times, resilience 

11:15-12:45 Break 

12:45: 13:30: How to say no Emer Walshe, JCI Ireland Deputy National President 

13:30-14:30 Lunch 

14:30- 15:30 JCI 101 Debating 

15:30-16:00 Break

16:00- 16:10- Vice Preident Tijana Mini talk 

16:10-16:45 Senators vs Members Show debate 

16:45-17:00 Closing remarks 

17:00-19:00 Get Ready for Gala 

Gala Dinner:

Veune Address: Showroom Cinema  Paternoster Row  Sheffield City Centre, S1 2BX

19:00-19:30: Welcome Drinks

20:00- 00:00 Gala 

Includes: 
- welcome drink
- ⁠3 course meal
- ⁠x2 alcohol/non-alcoholic drinks,
- ⁠awards ceremony
- ⁠speeches 
- ⁠live entertainment

Sunday

8:00-10:00- Breakfast in Hotel

10:00- 12:00 Local Tour 

 

Please note that timing are a rough guide and subject to change 

Confirmed Speakers: 

Sarah Brown - JCI UK Senator

Ilona Alcock- JCI UK Senator

Chrissy Meleady MBE, CEO Equalities and Human Rights UK

Phoebe Benta - JCI UK Senator

Emer Walshe- JCI Ireland Deputy National President 

Accommodation:

Hotel is not included, but support and recommendations will be provided. Booking a hotel with breakfast is advised, though alternative options are available nearby.

We may be biased, but this is the best JCI UK experience of the year – you don’t want to miss it.

Communication: