The Northern Ireland regional group was launched at a well-attended meeting, which took place at the Belfast Harbour Commissioners offices, joining regional groups that have already been established in Anglia, the Midlands, North West, London East and London West, bringing the total number of regional groups to six.
During the Belfast launch event, participants were provided with more details about the YFN and given an opportunity to discuss how they would like their regional group to operate going forwards.
Carl Hobbis, BIFA’s training development manager, says: “We have had a really good response to the launch of the YFN and have already held over 20 well-attended events that are assisting in the development of future freight forwarding ambassadors and leaders for the sector.
“By creating several regional networking groups, run by young forwarders, the YFN aims to help early talent and young BIFA members develop their knowledge and professional skills, but in a more social, event-driven environment.
“Those events give YFN members the opportunity to network with their peers and learn from industry professionals, at the same time, boosting their continuous professional development.
“Each networking group has a chairperson and vice-chairperson, and a local organising committee, governed by at least two regional employers, as well as a BIFA representative, which in the case of the latest YFN group is Carson McMullan, consultant to BIFA in Northern Ireland.
“Less than one year since it was created, the YFN is really helping to improve the promotion of the sector, making it more attractive to younger people and providing forums for them to learn.”
