This weekend I had my first full weekend of JCI engagements as JCI UK National President. The first weekend of many to come. I think I have a free weekend some time in May, otherwise my weekends are filled with National Board meetings, international meetings, training weekends and international conventions. All good fun and all of it things I'm really looking forward to.

The weekend started in Barnsley with the JCI Barnsley 60th Annual Dinner. JCI Barnsley as always did a brilliant job with good speeches, good food and good people. It is no little feat to celebrate a 60th anniversary. How many other clubs and organisations, even companies, do you know that has survived for 60 years? 

The weekend continued at the British Senate Drumming Out in Northampton. 2011 JCI UK National President Allison Cowell gave a speech at the dinner drumming out 2011 Senate Chair David Butcher, while I gave a speech at the breakfast the next day, drumming in 2012 Senate Chair Julie Blakey.

It was a great experience and it's a good feeling thinking that in 10, 20 or 50 years it is us sitting there sharing memories of our active days.

I lost count over the weekend how many times I was asked how my year is going so far, and all of two weeks in, I could answer honestly that so far I'm having fun, having a great time, working with amazing people.

I hope you've all signed up for Inspiration Day in Birmingham the 28th of January. We have more than 40 sign ups, and even guests from as far as Mongolia and Finland. If you haven't, sign up before 22nd January!

See you soon!

solveig.malvik@jciuk.org.uk