We were in Marche-en-Famenne for September Joint Meeting 2025!

From 30 August to 2 September, we came together for this year’s SJM meeting! It was a valuable moment to look back at 2025, share experiences, and start shaping the road ahead.

Throughout the meeting, different bodies had the chance to meet, exchange ideas, and work on tasks linked to their missions. Together, we drafted the first steps of the Plan of Action 2026 and started to preparation of exciting proposals and workshops for the General Assembly 2025.

But it wasn’t only about planning, we also reflected on Alliance Strategic Direction, explored how to reach our common goals, and strengthened the sense of community within the Alliance. We were especially happy to welcome new faces, with the onboarding of CoI members and potential future volunteers!

A highlight of the gathering was the chance for TEAMs, CoIs and NAGs to showcase what they’ve been working on during the year. We also took a deep dive into the Topic of the Year 2025: Gender Diversity and LGBTQIA+, and revisited our “Spill the Tea on Diversity” campaign. With its educational materials, this campaign continues to raise awareness, improve accessibility, and make IVS spaces more inclusive for queer volunteers.

The meeting also brought together the IVS sister networks – CCIVS, ICYE, SCI and Alliance – in a spirit of strong collaboration. The discussions highlighted the networks' shared values and the unique strengths that each one brings to the wider IVS movement. At the same time, the event reinforced our ongoing advocacy efforts through in-person engagement, dialogue, and collective strategising. This highlighted the strength and potential of our networks when acting with a united voice.

It was a real honour. Thank you Courtney, Cristina and Julieta.

We warmly thank all participants for their contributions, and CBB for their wonderful hosting!