MCR Pathways hosted its first-ever staff conference in Edinburgh on Thursday 01 May, which delivered on inspiration, collaboration and common cause.
Under the theme of “Growing Together”, the day was filled with presentations, activities and discussion. All of which served as a reminder that, even in a time of organisational change, it’s important to stay rooted to the mission of ensuring every young person who has had the most unfair start in life, has someone to help them find their path, through the power of mentorship.
Melodie Crumlin, Deputy CEO of MCR Pathways, summarised the day wonderfully: “The theme of growing together really came to life on the day. There was a brilliant energy in the room as we reimagined where we’re heading, grounded in real stories, shared experiences, and the meaningful actions we’re taking across the organisation.”
“It felt like a powerful reflection of the culture we’re building and a clear step forward in our journey together.”
Staff were able to reflect on our organisational culture, strategic direction, and collective aspirations through a presentation given by Melodie Crumlin and Caroline Maddocks, England Programme Director. Staff were invited to breakout rooms to participate in immersive tasks about the strategy and culture of MCR Pathways.
Throughout the day, conversations bloomed around how we can nurture an environment in which not only the young people we support, but also our team, can grow and flourish. Caroline, who travelled up with a large number from down south, said: “Energy and optimism ran high from dawn as we made our way to Edinburgh.”
“Colleagues from all regions came together, some who had never previously met in person, and worked as one MCR team. The passion and commitment was clear as we collaborated on our next steps, bringing our cultural values to life. Determined to support young people, the vision, courage and conviction of the whole MCR team was inspiring.”
Interactive workshops encouraged staff to think about how their individual role will contribute to achieving our strategic direction. Much like different parts of a garden working together in harmony, these tasks highlighted how each team member brings unique skills and talents that, when combined, create something transformative for the young people at the heart of our work.
MCR Pathways CEO, Sharon MacIntyre, summed up the day by saying: “What stood out most to me was the amazing talents of everyone, and the shared passion and energy. It reminds me that our future isn’t something we wait for, it’s something that we shape every day, through the connections that we nurture and the values that we live by.”
A powerful breakout task invited staff to envision the MCR Pathways of the future, a future where more young people realise their potential through meaningful relationships with dedicated mentors. Growing together is more than just a theme, it symbolises embracing change while staying rooted in our core purpose: connecting young people with mentors who can help them to build skills, confidence and brighter futures.
Laura Campbell, West Mentor Services and Partnerships Manager, said: “I think my main takeaway from the conference was the feeling of togetherness, this is the first time I have attended a national staff event and I really valued meeting colleagues I don’t often work with.”
On the day, you could feel the positive energy in the room, which definitely gave me a boost of motivation. These sorts of events always help ground me and are an amazing reminder of why we do what we do. Not only that, it was amazing to hear people’s good news stories and plans for the organisation’s future.”
Just as a garden evolves with the passing seasons, MCR Pathways is embracing fresh growth in the months ahead. In the coming months, MCR Pathways will be embracing a brand refresh. However, this represents more than just new colours and visuals, our brand refresh speaks to our commitment to grow and change while still staying rooted in our mission.
In addition to this, MCR Pathways will be cultivating innovative new digital pathways to ensure we are able to reach young people in all corners of the UK. These digital tools will help us to transcend modern challenges, to ensure that every young person who has faced an unfair start in life has someone to help them find their path.
MCR Pathways will launch its new strategic vision later this year, please contact melodie.crumlin@mcrpathways.org for further info.
If you feel inspired to become an MCR Pathways mentor, or would like to find out more, head to mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor.
