Assembly Planning Committee Meets in Chiang Mai to Advance Preparations for the 22nd General Assembly of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs

Last Updated (Friday, 30 October 2026 08:30)

Assembly Planning Committee Meets in Chiang Mai to Advance Preparations for the 22nd General Assembly of the Asia & Pacific Alliance of YMCAs

The Assembly Planning Committee (APC) held its in-person meeting in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from 21-24 August 2026. Hosted by Chiang Mai YMCA and the local organizing team, the meeting brought together APAY leaders, host representatives, and staff to review preparations for the 22nd APAY General Assembly (GA), including venue arrangements, programme development, Youth Assembly (YA), Gender Equity Forum (GEF), and overall logistics.

Reviewing the General Assembly Venues and Dates

22nd General Assembly Venue: Empress Hotel and Convention Centre, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Dates: October 5 -10, 2027 (arrival October 5, departure October 10)

Youth Assembly and Gender Equity Forum: The International Hotel, Chiang Mai YMCA

Dates: October 2-5, 2027 (arrival October 2, departure October 5)

The committee conducted site visits to the Empress Hotel and Chiang Mai YMCA, the proposed venues for the General Assembly and pre-events. Extensive discussions were held on meeting spaces, accommodation, dining facilities, hybrid participation options, and logistical arrangements for delegates. It was recommended for the participants of the youth assembly and gender equity forum to continue to join the 22nd GA after the pre events.

The committee also emphasized environmentally responsible practices, including reducing single-use plastics and encouraging participants to bring reusable water bottles.

Enhancing Participation and Accessibility

Recognizing the importance of broad participation across the Asia-Pacific YMCA movement, the committee explored hybrid meeting options to accommodate individuals who may not be able to travel in person. The venue's technological capacity was reviewed and found suitable for selected sessions requiring online participation.

Accommodation arrangements were also discussed. Delegates will have flexibility in choosing accommodation options while benefiting from negotiated rates with designated venues. Special attention is being given to ensuring smooth transportation between event locations.

Planning an Engaging Exposure Programme

The Host Committee presented preliminary concepts for the Assembly's Exposure Programme, designed to connect participants with local communities, culture, environmental initiatives, and examples of YMCA mission in action.

Committee members expressed a preference for a full-day experience that combines cultural learning, community engagement, and Vision 2030-related themes. Discussions also highlighted opportunities for delegates to encounter local faith traditions, social initiatives, and historical landmarks while deepening their understanding of the local context in northern Thailand.

Developing the Assembly Theme and Identity

One important agenda was the discussion of the visual identity and logo for the General Assembly. Several draft concepts prepared by the Host Committee were reviewed, and one design direction was selected for further development by a local artist.

Strengthening the Assembly Programme

The APC reviewed and further developed the draft programme for the General Assembly. Discussions covered governance sessions, Council meetings, keynote presentations, worship, workshops, elections, reports, and special events.

The committee reaffirmed the importance of completing governance-related business through the Council while ensuring that the Assembly provides meaningful opportunities for learning, fellowship, and movement-building. Plans are also underway to include keynote presentations, updates from World YMCA, cultural activities, and opportunities for regional collaboration.

The opening and closing ceremonies are expected to showcase local culture alongside the shared identity of the YMCA movement across the Asia-Pacific region.

Progress on Youth Assembly and Gender Equity Forum

Updates were presented by leaders of the Youth Assembly (YA) and Gender Equity Forum (GEF). Both pre-events are being designed to provide valuable spaces for leadership development, dialogue, and movement engagement.

The committee approved maintaining the originally proposed schedules for both YA and GEF, recognizing the importance of providing sufficient time for meaningful participation and preparation before the General Assembly begins.

Discussions also explored options for sponsorship, resource mobilization, and cost-sharing to ensure broad participation while maintaining programme quality. The importance of encouraging the participation of youth, women, and men in gender equity discussions was also emphasized.

Budget and Operational Planning

Preliminary budget estimates from the host organizations were reviewed. The committee examined ways to ensure responsible stewardship of resources while maintaining a high-quality event experience. Suggestions included seeking sponsorships, streamlining conference materials, and maximizing local support and volunteer engagement.

Looking Ahead

The APC expressed appreciation to the Chiang Mai YMCA, the local host committee, and volunteers for their hospitality, dedication, and commitment to making the 22nd APAY General Assembly a meaningful and memorable gathering.

As preparations continue, the committee remains focused on creating a General Assembly that strengthens fellowship, advances the YMCA mission, and inspires participants across the Asia-Pacific region to live out the movement's shared commitment to faith, leadership, justice, and service. The in person planning committee meeting was presided by the chairperson Babu Markus Gomes.

Assembly Planning Committee Members

The Assembly Planning Committee is responsible for guiding the preparation and planning of the 22nd APAY General Assembly. The committee members are:

Local Host Committee (Chiang Mai YMCA)

The APC was joined by representatives of the Local Host Committee, who presented updates and facilitated site visits and planning discussions.

• Mr. Danuch Yontararak, President, Host YMCA

• Mr. Rachan Maneekarn, Board Director, Host YMCA

• Dr. Patcharawan Srisilapanan, Board Member, Host YMCA

• Ms. Pacharin Aviphan, Board Director, Host YMCA

• Ms. Supaluck Promkhuntha, Senior Executive, Host YMCA

• Ms. Chularat Phongtudsirikul, General Secretary, Host YMCA

• Mr. Narupacha Muangin, Assistant Director, Host YMCA