Regional committees

Volunteer with your local committee

If you’re looking for a way to support geography and the Society, why not join your regional committee and get involved in organising events and activities in your area? Our regional committees are friendly and knowledgeable and are always happy to welcome new faces and the new ideas they bring. So, if you have an idea for an event, or simply want to be part of a group who champion geography in your local region, please get in touch with your local chair. If you are not sure which region you fall under or if you have any further questions, please email us at events@rgs.org 

What will you be doing?

Our regional committees exist to:

• Promote the aims of the Society and contribute to the delivery of the Society’s strategy.
• Share geographical knowledge through public events, such as talks, field visits and debates.
• Deliver a programme of events that meets the needs and interests of their local communities, including Fellows, Members, students, and the public.
• Provide Fellows and Members based across the regions with the opportunity to meet and create new connections furthering geography and all it stands for.
• Showcase the geography and geographers based in their region.
• Inspire the next generation of geographers.
• Engage with everyone with an enthusiasm for and interest in geography, travel and exploration.

As a committee member, you will help fulfil these goals through delivering the regional programme of events and being a positive ambassador for the Society as well as the discipline of geography.

The committees do not have a formal structure and have developed different ways to deliver their programmes. Most committees have a designated Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. Other roles and responsibilities may include publicity and marketing, links with specific organisations or subject areas.

What are we looking for?

People are at the heart of the Society and with the dedication and support of our regional committees we have been able to develop a thriving community across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. To help support and engage with our community of fellows, members and regional audiences, we need committee members who have:

• Society membership
• An enthusiasm for geography and an enjoyment of promoting geography to others.
• Ability to collaborate with other members as part of committee.
• Devotes time and effort to the committee and its activities
• Champions the Society’s ambition regarding all elements of diversity and inclusivity.

No previous experience in committees is necessary as you will be supported throughout your time on the committee.  

What difference will you make?

The commitment and contribution of our regional committees really makes a difference to the work of the Society. The regional committees extend the reach of the Society by engaging with diverse audiences to promote the advancement of geographical science and its application to the challenges facing the world’s people, places and environments.

What's in it for you?

Each committee has varied roles with many opportunities for personal and professional development, including:

• Chance to meet new people and develop your networks.
• Represent one of the leading geographical societies in the world.
• Support the Society’s strategic work and help with Society’s projects.
• Gain event management and marketing skills
• Develop communication and public speaking skills.
• Travel and other expenses reimbursed for event organiser