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Welcome to our News page, your space to stay updated with the latest happenings from around the Global Fellowship network.
Happy Founders’ Day 2026: A Message from Our General Manager
Dear Friends,
Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This Sunday, 25 October, members around the world celebrate BB Founders’ Day, remembering the life and vision of Sir William Alexander Smith, who founded The Boys’ Brigade in Glasgow in 1883.
His vision of combining Christian faith, discipline and adventure to help young people grow into responsible Christian citizens has inspired generations of young people and leaders across the world. Today, that vision continues through the work of The Boys’ Brigade and kindred organisations in our many nations, cultures and communities.
Founders’ Day is an opportunity not only to look back with gratitude, but also to look forward with renewed commitment. As members of the Global Fellowship of Christian Youth, we share a responsibility to ensure that The Boys’ Brigade remains relevant, welcoming and inspiring for the next generation. We must continue to invest in our young people, equip our leaders and create opportunities for young people to grow in faith, develop their gifts and serve their communities.
Across our network, we continue to see encouraging signs of growth, with new companies being established, regional partnerships being strengthened and young leaders coming together through initiatives such as Thrive. These developments remind us of the importance of working together, sharing our experience and supporting one another as we seek to fulfil our common mission. Thrive was a brilliant event, and you can read a documentation of the recent conference in Zambia here.
We have been encouraging member organisations to offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award to members. It goes by a different name in some countries, such as the Head of State Award in Ghana or the President’s Award, but it has the same structure and offers so many opportunities across the world. You can find out more about the award at https://intaward.org/ and if this might be of interest to your organisation, please do let us know.
Finally, as we prepare to celebrate this special day, we give thanks for all those who have served faithfully in The Boys’ Brigade over the years, and pray for God’s continued blessing on our work in every country where the movement is active. May we remain faithful to our founding vision, united in our Christian witness and committed to Sure and Stedfast service in the years ahead.
With every good wish and prayer,
Bill Stevenson, General Manager
Thrive 2026: Empowering the Next Generation of Young Leaders
Thrive 2026 has successfully concluded in Zambia, bringing together 30 enthusiastic and committed young Boys’ Brigade leaders for an inspiring week of leadership, learning, fellowship and personal development.
Held at Kaniki, this year’s Thrive centred on the theme “Lead Like Jesus”, encouraging young leaders to explore Christ-centred leadership and what it means to lead with confidence, purpose, resilience, humility and service.
The event formed part of GF’s strategic commitment to investing in NCOs and young officers across its member organisations. Through training, meaningful responsibility, mentorship and opportunities to participate in decision-making, Thrive seeks to equip young leaders with the skills and confidence they need to make a lasting contribution to the Brigade.
Throughout the week, participants brought fresh ideas, new perspectives and incredible energy to the programme. Their enthusiasm highlighted the importance of creating spaces where young leaders can grow, take responsibility and inspire others.
With the success of Thrive 2026, GF remains committed to developing and empowering the next generation of leaders. As more Thrive events are planned, the journey continues to create pathways for young people to lead, serve and make a difference in their communities.
The question now is: where will the next Thrive be?
Neil Lal Appointed Voluntary Ambassador of the Global Fellowship of Christian Youth
The Global Fellowship of Christian Youth (GF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Neil Lal, Chairman and President of The Indian Council of Scotland and United Kingdom, as a Voluntary Ambassador.
This appointment recognises Mr. Lal’s outstanding contribution to community leadership, international engagement, and youth empowerment. Through his new role, Mr. Lal will work alongside the GF Executive Committee to promote leadership development, encourage youth participation in community service, and strengthen partnerships across The Boys’ Brigade international network.
The appointment reflects the Fellowship’s commitment to engaging experienced leaders who can inspire and mentor the next generation while encouraging greater understanding, collaboration, and cooperation among communities around the world.
Announcing the appointment, Bill Stevenson, General Manager of the Global Fellowship of Christian Youth, said:
“Neil Lal has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service and community engagement. His leadership and experience will be invaluable in helping us expand our mission of empowering young people through faith, service, and responsible leadership. We are delighted to welcome him as a Voluntary Ambassador. As a BB ex-member, he knows our values and that the BB is still a great force for good across the globe.”
Commenting on his appointment, Neil Lal said:
“As a proud ex-member of the BB, I am honoured to accept this appointment and support the important work of the Global Fellowship of Christian Youth. Across the world, young people are seeking purpose, opportunity, and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to society. I look forward to working with the Fellowship to encourage leadership, service, and positive engagement among young people from all backgrounds.”
Mr. Lal’s appointment marks an important step in strengthening the Fellowship’s outreach efforts and supporting its continued engagement with youth organisations, community leaders, and educational institutions internationally.
January 2026 Newsletter
Our most recent newsletter is now live! Catch up on stories, updates from member organisations, upcoming events, and inspiring initiatives from around the world.
Podcast
✨ Featuring Tim Pratt – Former Chair of GF. Enjoy a special podcast episode where Tim shares reflections on leadership, service, and the global growth of the Boys’ Brigade.
Share Your Story
Do you have news, a local success story, or an inspiring initiative to share with the GF community? We would love to hear from you and feature your update in our next newsletter or on this page. Please send your contributions to: admin@globalfellowship.net
Podcast
🌍 From Africa – Masauso Mwanza Masauso, our African Development Manager, brings a powerful message about youth empowerment, growth, and development across Africa.
📚 Newsletter Archive
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