Organised by Afrikindness, this year’s Parenting and Inclusion Conference takes place under the theme “Beyond Assumptions 2.0: Reimagining Parenting, Youth Voice & Professional Practice.”

The programme aims to bring families together with the organisations and professionals that support them, creating opportunities to learn, ask questions, make connections and build stronger relationships.

Parenting, Inclusion and Practical Support

The main conference on Saturday 24 October will feature a full day of conversations, learning and practical support.

Topics will include safeguarding and parental rights, SEND and neurodiversity, mental health, culturally responsive parenting, complex family experiences and youth voice.

Organisers expect up to 50 speakers and contributors, including civic and community leaders, practitioners, service providers and people with lived experience.

Youth Employability Workshop

Running alongside the main conference will be a practical employability workshop for young people aged 15 to 21.

Sessions will cover CV writing, interviews, LinkedIn, career planning, AI and digital skills, financial literacy, communication and personal branding.

The workshop is designed to help young people prepare for future education, training and employment opportunities.

Exhibition and Business Roadshow

The wider APIC2026 programme continues on Wednesday 28 October with an Exhibition and Business Roadshow in Leeds.

Visitors will be able to meet community organisations, charities, businesses and service providers supporting families and communities across the region.

It will provide an opportunity to discover services, ask questions and build useful connections.

Online Neurodiversity Summit

On Saturday 7 November 2026, APIC2026 will also host an online Neurodiversity Summit.

The event will explore autism, ADHD, diagnosis and support pathways, stigma and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent children, young people and adults.

Whether you are a parent, young person, educator, health or social care professional, voluntary-sector organisation, employer, service provider or community leader, organisers say there is a place for you at APIC2026.

Places are limited and early registration is encouraged.