Attending the most recent Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Congress was a professional milestone for me, not only because of the incredible learning opportunities but also because I had the privilege of participating as a speaker for a resolution debate. It was an experience I’ll carry with me for years to come.

When I was first invited to speak at the debate, I was excited, but admittedly nervous. I enjoy public speaking but not to such a large audience, and the idea of addressing such a knowledgeable and passionate audience of nursing professionals felt daunting. However, those nerves were quickly eased when I stepped onto the stage. The warm reception from the audience and the reassuring demeanour of the chair created a supportive and encouraging environment. Their kindness gave me the confidence to find my voice and share my thoughts on the issue at hand.

The resolution debate itself was a fantastic experience. Engaging with colleagues who brought diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to the advancement of nursing was both inspiring and energising. The discussion that unfolded during the debate reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and dialogue to address the challenges facing our profession.

Beyond the debate, one of the highlights of my time at Congress was the opportunity to network with so many incredible nursing professionals. The event brought together individuals from a wide array of specialties, backgrounds, and career stages, and each conversation offered a new perspective. I connected with colleagues who shared similar challenges in their practice, as well as those who inspired me with innovative ideas and solutions. These interactions were not only motivating but also gave me a renewed sense of pride in being part of such a dynamic profession.

Another key takeaway from Congress was the wealth of information and insights I was able to bring back to my own practice. The event addressed pressing issues in nursing, ranging from workforce shortages and mental health support to the integration of technology in healthcare. Hearing these topics discussed by experts and peers helped me see how these broader challenges are interconnected with the realities we face in our daily work. It also gave me practical strategies and ideas to implement and share with my team.

Looking back, my experience at the RCN Congress was transformative. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to grow personally and professionally. It reminded me of the incredible community of nursing professionals who, despite the challenges we face, remain committed to advocating for better patient care and a stronger healthcare system.

I encourage anyone in the nursing field to attend Congress if they have the opportunity. Whether as a speaker, a voting member, or an attendee, there’s so much to gain from being part of this inspiring event. For me, it was a chance to grow, connect, and reaffirm my passion for nursing—a reminder of why we do what we do every single day.