Together in Purpose: A Conference on Personal Growth for Social Impact
The Sanctuary presents an immersive day of workshops, lectures, mindful activities with activist and author Anthea Lawson and neuroscientist Dr Brian Pennie.
Venue: Richmond Education and Event Centre, Smithfield, Dublin 07
Date and Time: Monday 2nd November 2026, 9am-4pm
Who is this for?
This Conference is directed at those working in the charity and non-profit sectors and anyone who is passionate about the intersection between personal growth and societal change.
Introduction
Join our unique Conference hosted by the Sanctuary this November. Inspired by the vision of our founder Sister Stan: ‘Nourishing Personal Growth for Greater Social Impact’ this workshop-focused conference invites participants to explore this deeper dimension of personal development: growth as a catalyst for positive social impact.
In an era shaped by rapid change, increasing social inequality, and a pervasive culture of individualism and consumerism, the question of how we grow as individuals has never been more significant. Personal development is often framed as a journey of self-improvement—focused on achievement, success, and personal fulfilment. Yet, at its most meaningful, growth is not solely about the self; it is about how our evolving awareness, skills, and compassion can be intentionally directed toward the wellbeing of others.
Guided by renowned speakers and facilitators Anthea Lawson and Dr. Brian Pennie, the conference offers an immersive and interactive space for reflection, dialogue, and action. Drawing on their extensive experience in community development, social innovation, and values-based leadership, Anthea and Brian will support participants in examining how inner transformation can translate into meaningful contributions to society. Through engaging workshops, collaborative exercises, and storytelling, attendees will be encouraged to connect their personal aspirations with a broader sense of social responsibility.
Ultimately, this conference is an invitation to reimagine personal growth as a shared journey—one that honours our interconnectedness and recognises our collective potential to shape a more just and compassionate world. By intentionally nourishing ourselves, we become better equipped tonourish others, creating ripples of positive change that extend far beyond the individual. Together, we can move from personal insight to purposeful action, transforming growth into a powerful force for social good.
Conference Overview
About the Speakers:
Anthea Lawson
Anthea Lawson is an activist and writer who has worked on campaigns to shut down tax havens, prevent banks from facilitating corruption and environmental devastation, and control the arms trade. At Global Witness, she launched a prize-winning campaign that changed the rules on secret company ownership and resulted in new laws in dozens of countries. She has published opinion pieces in the Financial Times, Guardian and New York Times, and essays in Dark Mountain, where she has worked as an editor.
Anthea began her career as a reporter at The Times, where she also had a book review column. She was a judge for the Betty Trask Award in 2004. She is still campaigning to get a safe pedestrian crossing at the end of her road.
Her first book, The Entangled Activist: Learning to Recognise the Master’s Tools, was published by Perspectiva Press in 2021. Anthea’s forthcoming book, How Not to Save the World, is published by Oneworld. She lives in Devon.
Dr. Brain Pennie
Dr. Brian Pennie is a neuroscientist, resilience expert, and motivational speaker whose journey from a heroin addict to a PhD holder is both remarkable and inspiring. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Brian’s life took a dramatic turn when he overcame a 15-year heroin addiction in 2013. This pivotal moment led him to pursue an education in psychology, where he excelled, ultimately earning a PhD in Neuroscience from Trinity College Dublin.
Brian is the founder of “Change is Possible,” a platform dedicated to helping individuals and organisations embrace change, build resilience, and achieve personal and professional growth. He is also a lecturer at Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin, where he shares his knowledge and insights with students. His personal story of transformation, combined with his academic expertise, makes his talks both deeply personal and scientifically grounded.
As an author, Brian has written the book “Bonus Time,” which details his journey from addiction to academic and professional success. Brian’s keynotes are known for their emotional impact and practical takeaways. He covers topics such as resilience, mental health, meditation and breathwork, and emotional awareness, drawing from his own experiences and extensive research. His engaging and authentic speaking style leaves a lasting impression on his audiences.
Cost: €180 (including lunch and tea and coffee throughout the day)
*for non-profit discounted price please email enquiries@sanctuary.ie
This Conference is CPD Accredited.
