We were inspired by a range of brilliant speakers from across the University, Belfast City Council, Richard Good from The Turnaround Project, and two outstanding young people, Emma and Sara, who shared their experiences and bold visions for future university–community partnerships. Their contributions underscored how vital it is that Queen’s continues to work with communities, not simply for them.

It was also a pleasure to see so many of our partners in the room, including our friends from the Market Development Association (MDA). The event highlighted just some of the work already underway – from long-term partnerships in neighbourhoods across the city to projects with schools in the greater Shankill area, supporting young people to shape positive educational futures.

Queen’s President and Vice-Chancellor reflected on the University’s new Civic University status as both recognition and responsibility: a commitment to work hand in hand with communities and partners to drive real, positive change across Belfast and beyond, ensuring Queen’s remains a “place of opportunity and inclusion” for all.

It is an exciting time to be part of urgently needed community engagement that is focused on real, material change for people and places.

You can find out more about Queen’s Civic University journey in this short film:

▶️ https://youtu.be/3fYynZ0WO2g?si=1p78YzBy5KqudIdk