As president of the Young Business Group, I’ve had the privilege of leading a year that has been energetic, ambitious and varied. What has stood out most is how widely our programme has stretched – from financial know-how to sustainability, civic engagement, the arts and community initiatives. It’s been a year that reflects exactly who our members are: curious, involved and keen to keep growing both professionally and personally.
We began the year by focusing on practical knowledge that genuinely supports young professionals. Our January breakfast at Walkers saw Gower break down the essentials of financial hygiene – a topic many in our demographic want clarity on, but rarely receive in such a straightforward, accessible way.
Ensuring our members have the confidence to engage in Guernsey’s political future was another key priority. In April, we encouraged members to make use of their vote in the island’s election, sparking valuable discussion about the role young professionals can play in shaping local policy. Later in the year, we highlighted Women in Public Life with a September breakfast at Otto’s, reflecting on what has been a defining year for female representation across the island.
Environmental awareness remained front and centre. In February, the Pollinator Project joined us at St Pierre Park Hotel to discuss biodiversity and the small actions that make a meaningful difference. This continued in May with a session at Candie Gardens led by UN1TY and Little Green, exploring the real, practical steps both businesses and individuals can take to build a more sustainable future.
Despite Guernsey’s unpredictable (and at times downright miserable!) weather, our June plans at the Renoir Tea Gardens weren’t dampened for long. Thanks to our quick-thinking committee, we pulled off a painting masterclass with Tim Gaudion at Crepe Maison that kept spirits high and gave members a chance to try something a little different and perhaps, out of their comfort zone.
Across the summer, we doubled down on community and connection. A relaxed dinner at Sizzle and Stone in July – joined by our Bill Green Award winners, The Guernsey Seaweed Co. – gave members time to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal together. Our annual Summer party at The Peninsula followed soon after, celebrating the enthusiasm and hard work that keeps YBG thriving.
In October, we turned our attention to collaboration, spotlighting our ties with the Guernsey Chamber of Commerce and showcasing how our two organisations continue to support the island’s wider business community.
Some traditions truly earn their place. November brought the return of our much-loved wine tasting at the Bathing Pools, alongside the start of our annual heart-warming project responding to children’s letters to Santa, a long-standing initiative that quietly brings real joy to local families each Christmas.
As we settle into December, we’ll celebrate a successful 2025 with a Christmas party at Good Rebel, a fitting end to a year that has been both wide-ranging and deeply rewarding.
Looking back, our goal has remained consistent: to offer events that inform, inspire and entertain while building a community young professionals genuinely want to be part of. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve delivered, and excited for what we’ll continue to build in 2026.
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