Belgian Delegation Shines at the JCI European Conference 2025
The JCI European Conference 2025 took place from 4 to 7 June in Herning, Denmark. Hosted by JCI Denmark at the MCH Herning Kongrescenter — Scandinavia’s largest convention venue — EC2025 brought together more than 1,000 young professionals from across JCI Europe’s 33 member nations. Under the theme “Quality Training – Lifelong Learning,” this leadership conference proved to be one of the most inspiring editions in recent memory.
What Is the JCI European Conference?
Organised annually by JCI Europe, the regional arm of Junior Chamber International, this leadership conference unites active citizens aged 18 to 40 for leadership training, debating and public-speaking championships, the Creative Young Entrepreneur Award, and the prestigious European Awards Ceremony. Present in over 100 countries, JCI uses EC2025 as its continental centrepiece for developing the next generation of impactful leaders and entrepreneurs.
Programme Highlights in Herning, Denmark
The JCI European Conference 2025 featured a packed four-day programme of workshops, keynote sessions, a Talent Fair, company visits, and the General Assembly. At the Herning Denmark venue, Grundfos COO Ulrik Gernow addressed innovation and global impact, while Dr. Phaedria Marie St. Hilaire inspired attendees with her vision of inclusive leadership. The event closed with a fairytale-themed Gala rooted in the legacy of Hans Christian Andersen.
A Strong Result for JCI Belgium
JCI Belgium left a clear mark at EC2025. Romain Baiwir, Emmanuel Minutillo, and Catherine Thise claimed the French Debating Championship, while JCI Lier won Best Local Growth & Development Programme in Europe for its project “Show Ourselves.” These results confirm JCI Belgium’s position as a competitive and engaged force on the European stage.
Looking Ahead: Málaga 2026
Building on the momentum of the JCI European Conference 2025, the next edition of this premier leadership conference moves to Málaga, Spain, from 29 April to 2 May 2026, themed “Connecting Minds, Creating Futures.”
Pretour
Before the conference even started, we went big (pretour):
- ✈️ A behind-the-scenes visit to Airbus
- 🎢 A stop at Legoland (yes, leaders can have fun too)
- 🎉 Parties on the road — because vibes matter
🇧🇪 Belgium also made its mark beyond the fun:
- Debating Cup winners for Belgium
- A European award for a project by JCI Lier
- A twinning signed between the UK, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Belgium
Big shout-out to JCI Kortrijk and JCI Waregem for organizing a trip that perfectly balanced learning, connection, and celebration.
Strong presence. Real impact.
Have a look to the JCI European Conference 2026 (Malaga, Spain).
