Reflecting on 2025
Monday 22nd December 2025At the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, our world seems more fragile and uncertain than ever… political instability, a growing number of wars, climate concerns, the cost of living, understanding what AI actually means, challenges like mental health, and ‘toxic masculinity’.
Like all periods of significant social and geopolitical change that our country has faced over the past 142 years (including two World Wars and two global pandemics), The Boys’ Brigade has had an important contribution to make:
- Providing a place that is safe, where support is consistent and steady.
- Where young people are nurtured and valued.
- Where the love of Christ is shared and shown through action and role model relationships.
As I reflect on the past year, as an organisation there are many things to celebrate – the hundreds of young people that joined adventure days across the country as part of the Your Future partnership with the University of Greater Manchester (formerly Bolton University), increased participation in our National Competitions, the piloting of the Elevate training for young leaders, the awarding of the first King’s Badges in over 70 years, and involvement at both local and national events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Of course more importantly is the opportunities and experience that are given within local communities to children and young people each week by thousands of volunteer leaders.
Over the year I have welcomed the opportunities to engage directly with leaders across the country. In January it was a pleasure join an event in London focusing on the achievements of young people and the contribution made by leaders, in February it was great to hold a Q&A session with over 50 leaders from across Paisley and Glasgow, and to engage with young leaders at the Young Leaders Weekend in April and at both our KGVI courses during the summer.
Next year we will be thinking about the priorities for our new five-year strategy. By the end of that strategy we will be approaching our 150th anniversary.
As we consider the future, I’m pleased that we have recently launched a new Alumni Scheme to reconnect with former BB members and for them to help us build that future where the next generation of young people have the same opportunities.
One of the first alumni stories we have highlighted, Pete Markey says: “I wouldn’t be the person I am, doing the job I’m doing, if it hadn’t been for The Boys’ Brigade. I genuinely believe that. I am who I am today because of it.”
This, I believe, sums up the story of The Boys’ Brigade – and what we offer children and young people is as important, and is needed more than ever.
A very happy Christmas!
Jonathan Eales
Chief Executive
