NICVA SUMMIT addresses key challenges faced by voluntary and community sector
Broadcaster Sarah Travers with Chief Executive of Pro Bono Economics Matt Whittaker, CEO of NICVA Celine McStravick and Chair of NICVA Stephen Dallas at NICVA SUMMIT 2026
The voluntary, community and social enterprise sector was united in the face of violent scenes across Northern Ireland this week, as over 300 sector leaders gathered for the 2026 NICVA SUMMIT.
Held by The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA), the SUMMIT took place at ICC, Belfast on Wednesday 10 June 2026, hosted by leading broadcaster Sarah Travers.
Opening the Summit with a special VIP address, delegates were joined by Junior Minister Aisling Reilly MLA and Junior Minister Joanne Bunting MLA who set the tone with a joint address focused on leadership in a period of significant change, reflecting on the role of collaboration and resilience across the sector - a timely reminder, given the escalating violence unfolding across Northern Ireland.
Addressing this year’s NICVA SUMMIT, Celine McStravick, Chief Executive of NICVA, said:
"The scenes of violence, intimidation and hate crime that targeted ethnic minority families and communities across Northern Ireland this week are harrowing to watch. These acts of racism are attempts to break the bonds that keep our communities together and they will never succeed because those bonds are so strong. We stand in support with the families and communities affected by this violence. Racism must be eliminated from society, and it is everyone’s responsibility to confront it.”
In a busy event programme, Matt Whittaker, CEO, Pro Bono Economics addressed the SUMMIT with a thought-provoking keynote address, challenging delegates to think differently about the future of the sector and the choices facing government and society.
Engagement Hubs, led by NICVA Members throughout the day complemented a programme of panel discussions and provided opportunities for practical learning and shared best practice - spotlighting innovative approaches driving social impact across the VSCE sector.
The event closed with a renewed call for collaboration across the sector and with governing bodies, recognising that progress depends on strong partnerships, resilient communities and a shared commitment to positive change.
The 2026 NICVA SUMMIT was funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council, International Fund for Ireland and supported by its headline corporate sponsor Honeycomb Jobs, alongside HSF Health Plan (UK).