Inspire North Peace Conference 2026
Inspire North, in partnership with the Leeds Learning Alliance, is proud to host the Leeds Peace Conference on 20 May 2026, bringing people together from across our city to explore how peace can become possible, inclusive and lasting.
Taking place at Headingley Stadium, LS6 3BR, this one‑day event will gather practitioners, educators, community leaders, policymakers and changemakers committed to building a more peaceful future for Leeds.
What to Expect
The conference offers a powerful blend of inspiration, practical learning, and collaborative problem‑solving, including:
- Inspiring keynote speeches from internationally respected voices
- Practical workshops and round‑table conversations designed to spark action
- Opportunities to collaborate with peers and develop your own peace commitments
- A special performance by the Music House Leeds Choir to open the event with hope and unity
This isn’t just a conference — it’s a space to rethink what peace can look like for our communities and the people we support every day.
Meet Our Speakers
We are honoured to welcome:
Debbie Watters
Co‑Director & Founder, Northern Ireland Alternatives
A leading voice in restorative justice, Debbie brings decades of experience in community‑based conflict transformation.
Professor Hilary Cremin
Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge
Hilary’s internationally recognised research explores conflict transformation and peace education in schools and communities.
His Honour Judge Guy Kearl KC
Senior Judge, Leeds Crown Court
Judge Kearl will share insights from his work supporting young men in the justice system, helping divert them away from gangs and knife crime.
Tom Shaw
Director of Research and Development, Carr Manor Community School
Tom will lead a Peace Planning Workshop based on Carr Manor’s innovative whole‑school Peace Plan.
Why This Conference Matters
We are living through a period marked by global unrest, polarisation and rising racism. In this climate, safe spaces for dialogue, reflection and hope are essential.
The Leeds Peace Conference invites you to step into that space — to listen, to connect, and to help shape a shared vision for peace in our city.
Book Your Place
The Leeds Peace Conference takes place on:
🗓 20 May 2026
📍 Headingley Stadium, Leeds (LS6 3BR)
⏰ 9:00am – 3:30pm
About Our Partners - Leeds Learning Alliance
A powerful consortium improving education for over 135,000 learners across the city through inclusion, collaboration and ambition.
Together, we aim to create a space where lived experience, professional expertise, and community wisdom come together to imagine a more peaceful Leeds.