This time last week, we were joined by over 70 WEA learners, members and colleagues for our “Shaping tomorrow together” conference and awards 2025 at The Royal College of Physicians in London.
After welcoming our attendees, the morning kicked off with a choice of workshops led by WEA staff and tutors. This was closely followed by the ‘Beyond the learning’ panel hosted by our Head of Charitable Purpose, Katie Shaw, who was joined by WEA tutor Jayne Clark and Gavin McCann, Regional learning and development organiser at UNISON.
After lunch, afternoon workshops took place with tutor-led photography and crafting sessions plus an insight into the work taking place with our Local Advisory Panels (LAPS). The sun also decided to make an appearance in time for those who opted for a tour of the venue’s tranquil medicinal garden.
Between workshops, we heard inspirational words from keynote speakers; Khudeja Amer-Sharif, CEO of Shama women’s centre, and Taj Ali, a journalist and historian.
After closing remarks from myself and WEA President Matt Pointon it was time to head into the evening’s WEA awards ceremony.
We were delighted to be joined by 11 award winners and runners-up who each received nominations for their passion and commitment to learning. The audience were on the brink of tears as we listened to their powerful unique stories and moving words of hope, courage and strength.
The day ended on a high with attendees taking to the garden for celebratory drinks, nibbles and networking.
Wednesday’s event was a great way to showcase the true impact of adult learning and hear the diverse stories of how learning changes the lives of individuals and the communities they live in.
For those who were unable to attend the conference either in-person or online, you can catch up using the links below:
WEA "shaping tomorrow together" conference and awards 2025 - Welcome & Opening Address
WEA Conference 2025 - Beyond The Learning panel discussion
WEA "shaping tomorrow together" conference and awards 2025 - Keynote speech and closing remarks
You can also catch up with our awards ceremony here: WEA awards 2025 - YouTube
Thank you to everyone who came along!
