From 12–14 November 2025, ADRA national directors from across Europe, together with colleagues from ADRA International and the ADRA Europe regional team, gathered at Newbold College of Higher Education for the annual European ADRA Leaders Forum.
Amid rapid and profound changes in the humanitarian and development sector, the three-day gathering provided a vital space to reflect collectively on current challenges, ways of serving, and the future direction of the ADRA network in Europe. At the heart of the discussions was one central question: How can the network collaborate more closely, more sustainably, and in greater alignment with its core values to respond effectively to the needs of the most vulnerable?
ADRA Europe Regional Director João Martins captured the spirit of the event, stating:
“In an era of dramatic disruption in the humanitarian and development sectors, it is encouraging to see European ADRA leaders determined to act together to achieve even greater impact in the lives of the most disadvantaged people we serve. It is truly inspiring to witness our shared, biblically rooted commitment to service as we explore new funding models and strengthen the long-term sustainability of our operations.”
Toward Greater Unity of Action
A recurring theme was the shift from fragmented national efforts to a true “One ADRA” approach across Europe. Participants stressed the importance of strengthening communication and coordination, identifying shared priorities for meaningful cross-border collaboration, and clearly mapping expertise within the network to enable innovations and best practices to flow freely.
Faith and Values at the Core
Each day began with worship and devotional reflections led by Dr Ján Barna, Head of Research and Principal Lecturer in Systematic Theology at Newbold College. Drawing on biblical themes of justice, economics, and God’s vision for human flourishing, he situated ADRA’s work within God’s broader mission of restoration. Particular attention was given to expressing faith identity in increasingly secular and polarized contexts. Leaders agreed that the core values of Justice, Compassion, and Love provide a universal language that resonates both within and beyond the Christian community.
Key commitments included communicating the mission in inclusive ways, deepening structured collaboration with the Seventh-day Adventist Church to mutual benefit, and investing intentionally in the next generation through initiatives such as One Year in Mission.
Innovative Pathways to Financial Sustainability
Faced with shrinking global humanitarian budgets, participants explored creative strategies: expanding foundation fundraising, enhancing digital storytelling and engagement, piloting social enterprises that generate income for community programs, and pooling expertise across offices to avoid duplication of effort.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
Strong emphasis was placed on the systematic use of data to guide strategic choices and communicate impact transparently to donors and partners—building trust and enabling wiser allocation of resources.
Caring for the People Who Serve
Significant time was devoted to staff well-being and leadership culture. Priorities included providing supervision and psychosocial support, fostering transparent and psychologically safe environments, developing young talent through internships and volunteer pathways, and ensuring strategic plans serve as practical tools that reduce operational stress.
A Spirit of Hope and Resolve
As the Forum concluded, European ADRA leaders departed Newbold with renewed hope: in the power of collaboration, in the potential of sustainable new models to extend reach and depth of impact, and in the enduring guidance of biblical values in a complex world.
In an age of global uncertainty, the ADRA Europe network reaffirmed its commitment to step courageously and compassionately into the hardest places—together.
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