Shaping the island’s urban future
Wednesday 24th June, Belfast City Hall
9am - 5pm
Armagh, Bangor, Belfast, Cork, Derry, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, Lisburn, Newry & Waterford.
Armagh, Bangor, Belfast, Cork, Derry, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, Lisburn, Newry & Waterford.
Join us in Belfast on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 for a landmark gathering when for the first time the island's 12 cities will come together to discuss how we can collaborate for the future.
This event is supported by:
Keynote Speaker
Former Mayor of New York
Bill de Blasio served as Mayor of New York City from 2014 to 2021, leading the city through a period of major social and economic change. Known for his focus on economic equality, education and affordable housing, he brings a global perspective on urban leadership, connectivity and the future of cities.
Bill de Blasio
Speakers so far….
Richard Shakespeare is the Chief Executive of Dublin City Council, Ireland’s largest local authority. He is responsible for the daytoday operations of the Council, implementing council decisions, and working with elected members and staff to deliver Dublin’s vision for a creative, sustainable city.
Richard Shakespeare
Chief Executive of Dublin City Council
Sue Gray is one of the most influential figures in modern British public life, with decades of experience at the heart of government and public administration. Renowned for her expertise in governance and ethics, she held senior roles within the UK Civil Service.
Member of the House of Lords, Chair Consello UK and former Civil Servant.
Baroness Sue Gray
David Skaith is the first elected Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, leading one of England’s most diverse regions across urban, rural and coastal communities. A former business owner, he brings a strong focus on investment, connectivity and sustainable economic growth, championing collaboration between government, business and local communities.
Mayor of York and North Yorkshire
David Skaith
Caroline Campbell
Director of the National Gallery of Ireland
Dr Caroline Campbell is Director of the National Gallery of Ireland and a leading voice in the museum and cultural sector. An internationally respected art historian and curator, she has held senior roles at major institutions including the National Gallery and the Ashmolean Museum. Since taking up her role in Ireland, she has championed culture’s role in civic life, public engagement and international collaboration.
Colin Davidson
Visual Artist
Colin Davidson is an internationally acclaimed Northern Irish artist, renowned for his large-scale portraiture and powerful explorations of identity, conflict and memory. His work has been exhibited widely across the UK and Ireland, with his acclaimed “Silent Testimony” series earning international recognition for its sensitive portrayal of those affected by the Troubles.
Ariel Palitz
Ariel Palitz is a globally recognised advocate for the night-time economy and urban culture, best known as New York City’s first Night Mayor. Working across government, business and culture, she has become a leading voice on how nightlife and the creative industries can drive economic growth, tourism and vibrant, inclusive city life.
Former New York City Night life Mayor