The theme of activism continued to evolve during the afternoon. Dawn Livingston, RCN Learning and Development Facilitator, explored the concepts of power and influence, helping delegates understand how activism becomes effective when people recognise and utilise the different forms of power available to them.

We were invited to reflect on the concepts of power within, power to, power with, and power over. These ideas encouraged me to think about power not simply as authority or position, but as something that can be generated through knowledge, collaboration, and shared purpose.

Knowledge struck me as a significant source of influence. Scientific knowledge is important, but so too is understanding systems, policies, regulations, structures, and decision-making processes. Knowing how organisations function, who the key stakeholders are, and where opportunities for influence exist can significantly strengthen our ability to bring about change.

At the same time, knowledge can also create division when people hold differing views, priorities, or values. Dawn encouraged us to consider the barriers that can emerge when individuals or groups approach issues from different perspectives. This reflection extended to those who often hold decision-making authority—leaders and managers. While it can be easy to view them as obstacles to change, the session highlighted the importance of understanding the constraints and pressures they may face.

Recognising these challenges helps us tailor our approach to activism more effectively. It enables us to identify the people we need to engage, the arguments we need to present, and the strategies required to build support. It also prepares us for both successes and setbacks.

This linked perfectly with the title of Dawn’s presentation: Building Power Collectively. Activism is rarely a solitary endeavour. Whether addressing local service issues or broader professional challenges, meaningful progress is usually achieved through collaboration. Working collectively also strengthens resilience, creating support networks that sustain people through what might otherwise feel like an isolated journey.

There was a World Café, where delegates explored several domains of activism, including quality improvement, research, inclusion, leadership, governance, professionalism, and trade union activity.
One discussion that particularly interested me focused on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). I was pleased to hear about plans to establish EDI links within the RCN Forums. This has the potential to strengthen inclusion, ensure diverse perspectives are represented, and help address inequalities experienced by minority groups. Ensuring every voice is heard is fundamental to creating a stronger and more representative profession.

Research emerged once again as a recurring theme throughout these conversations. Delegates shared examples of barriers preventing research engagement and implementation. While these discussions reinforced my pride in engaging with scientific conferences, literature appraisal, and collaboration with research teams, they also inspired me to do more.

I left considering how research could become a more prominent topic within departmental meetings, appraisal conversations, and professional development discussions. Encouraging colleagues to incorporate research into their practice would not only strengthen services but also reinforce nursing’s contribution to evidence-based healthcare.

The idea also prompted reflection on opportunities within the RCN Forum structure. While research has featured in previous Forum activities, I found myself wondering whether stronger formal links with the RCN Nursing Institute for Excellence could further support knowledge-sharing and collaborative strategies across specialties.

Another important discussion centred on the developing career framework for nursing, midwifery, and allied health professionals. Delegates expressed concerns about the limited understanding of enhanced roles and the need for robust governance arrangements to support supervision, education, and quality assurance. These conversations reinforced my desire to continue building stronger relationships with colleagues in the Advanced Practice Forum. As a non-voting member of that Forum, I left motivated to increase my contribution and engagement with its work.

Alongside discussions on leadership and governance, there was a clear call for greater visibility of the RCN within healthcare organisations, both as a professional body and a trade union. I was disappointed to learn that my own Trust currently has no local RCN union representative, limiting opportunities for local collaboration. Equally thought-provoking were discussions around political engagement, including opportunities for Forums to engage more actively with Members of Parliament and policymakers.

The conference concluded with a panel of senior nursing and midwifery leaders whose career journeys demonstrated the remarkable opportunities available within our professions. Hearing how many were inspired by personal experiences and encounters with nurses and midwives reinforced the influence we have on others, particularly those considering entering healthcare careers.
Reflecting on the day as a whole, I left feeling inspired, challenged, and energised. The conference reminded me that activism is not confined to high-profile campaigns. It exists in everyday advocacy, research, leadership, inclusion, and professional development. There remains significant work to do in promoting the value of nursing, but equally there are countless opportunities to make a difference.

Above all, I was reminded of the importance of authentic leadership. Echoing the words of Professor Arlene Wellman MBE, successful activism requires us to remain true to our values, acting with honesty and integrity to earn the trust and respect of those around us. I left determined to play my part in that collective effort.