Connection, Courage and the Power of Community
Last month, over 100 people came together at the Regional Performance Centre in Dundee for something more than just an event. The Columban Gathering, co-hosted by What Matters 2 You (WM2U), Dundee City Council, and Columba 1400, was a day grounded in human connection, shared purpose, and belief in the potential of people and place.
Our aim was simple but powerful: to reconnect, to build relationships, and to inspire. From the energy in the room to the stories that were shared, it was clear we achieved exactly that.
Throughout the day, attendees moved between breakout sessions designed to spark reflection, deepen understanding, and surface ideas for how we can continue to grow as individuals, communities, and systems. The themes – amplifying young voices, building networks and communities, celebrating success, and imagining what’s next – offered a structure, but the heart of the day came from the people in the room.
“You can do it. You are enough.”
Tash Henderson from Charleston Matters spoke movingly about the impact of taking part in a Columba 1400 Values-Based Leadership Experience (VBLE) as part of the first group of parents to do so in Dundee. “Just having someone behind you saying, ‘you can do it, you are enough’,” she said, was transformational. That simple act of belief can open doors – for individuals, for families, for whole communities.
Young People Leading the Way
We also heard from Kyle, a young person who shared his journey with remarkable openness and courage. “The best and biggest surprise was Columba 1400 helping me learn more about who I am and making forever good friends that I can trust anything with,” he told us.
Kyle’s reflections were a reminder that when young people are truly listened to, when we invest in their confidence and leadership, the results are extraordinary. “If it wasn’t for Columba,” he said, “I wouldn’t have the kind of personality I have today.”
His hope? That his community becomes a place where everyone can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
Powerful Reflections from the Workshops
Each of the breakout sessions captured an important truth about what it means to create real, lasting change.
In one workshop, we reflected on the fundamental human need to be heard, valued, and to belong. True change isn’t about large budgets or complex strategies – it’s often about creating simple, safe spaces where people can share a coffee, check in with one another, and explore what really matters.
In another session, we heard about the deep connections built through WM2U and Columba 1400’s work. A senior leader and a community member shared how leadership transcends titles and job descriptions – it is the shared act of stepping forward with others, rooted in values and authenticity.
Team Whitfield gave an incredible insight into the transformational journeys happening in their community. Their courage, their belief in themselves, and the power of the decisions they have made – both before and during their VBLE – captivated everyone in the room. It’s a reminder of the impact that starts when people are given the time, space, and belief to lead.
Finally, our young people left us feeling hopeful. In a world where negativity often dominates the headlines, the energy and vision shared by our young leaders reminded us that the future is in good hands. If we invest in trust, hope, and love, good things can and will happen – because they already are.
Creating the Space for Change
So how did this all happen? As Drew Drummond from Columba 1400 reminded us:
“All of this happened because we stopped people in their busy lives, took them outside the everyday, and asked two simple questions: What do you think? and How can we be better?”
Columba 1400’s vision is built on a foundation laid over 25 years ago by our founder, Norman Drummond. His words continue to echo through everything we do: to realise that each one of us has greatness already within us.
Norman shared a powerful story of a young man who, despite being considered “too difficult” by his peers and leaders, went on to become the first Scot to stand on top of Mount Everest.
The lesson is simple and profound: Look for the best in others, and you very often find it. Look for the best in yourself – and dare to be surprised.
Looking Ahead
As we look to what’s next for the communities of Lochee, Charleston, Menzieshill, Fintry, and Whitfield, we do so with energy and hope.
The Columban Gathering was not just a moment – it was a milestone on a much longer journey of partnership, purpose, and people-powered change.
To everyone who took part, shared their story, or supported others to step forward: thank you. This is what transformation looks like.
