ABOUT US
BRINGING CHANGE MAKERS TOGETHER
The Vegan and Animal Rights Conference (VARC) is a transformative event dedicated to strengthening and energising the UK’s animal rights movement. Our mission is to bring together advocates from across the spectrum—grassroots organisers, movement leaders, NGOs, and new activists—to share ideas, build skills, and foster meaningful connections.
Through workshops, thought-provoking talks, and hands-on training, VARC equips advocates with the tools and inspiration to create a more compassionate and just world for animals. Whether you’re a seasoned campaigner or just beginning your advocacy journey, VARC is a space for growth, collaboration, and action.
We envision a powerful and unified UK Animal rights movement that accelerates global Animal liberation.
Create highly valued events that create unity, build capacity, inspire and energise the movement to achieve freedom for animals in the UK
Mission
Vision
OUR STORY
The Vegan and Animal Rights Conference (VARC) began with a bold vision: to unite and empower the UK’s Animal rights movement like never before. Across the country, passionate advocates were working tirelessly for animals, but many lacked opportunities to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another. We recognised that by bringing people together, we could build something truly transformative—a movement stronger than the sum of its parts.
In 2024, that vision became a reality. Our inaugural conference in Manchester brought together 260 advocates, from grassroots organisers to seasoned leaders, united by a shared goal: advancing animal liberation. Over two days, attendees participated in 51 sessions led by 56 inspiring speakers, tackling topics ranging from campaign strategies to leadership development.
The impact was profound. Attendees left energised, with 95% committing to take meaningful action for animals within six months. The connections forged at VARC have already led to new collaborations, campaigns, and innovative approaches to advocacy across the UK.
But this is just the beginning. VARC is more than an annual event—it’s a growing community of change-makers dedicated to creating a kinder, more compassionate world. With every conference, we strengthen the bonds within the movement, equip advocates with vital tools, and amplify the voices working to end animal exploitation.
In 2025, we’re building on this momentum. With a larger venue, an expanded program, and a growing community, we’re ready to welcome 400 advocates and take the next steps toward transformative change. Together, we’re not just imagining a better future for animals—we’re creating it.
OUR VALUES
CARE
We care deeply for the animals and our movement. We lead with compassion and believe in working together, despite our differences, to create a more just world for all.
PROGRESS
We embrace learning, growth and taking action; this is key to strengthening our movement.
COLLABORATION
Unity and cooperation makes us powerful. We value the health of the whole, bringing together diverse perspectives and strategies to ignite change.
MEET THE TEAM
Liz
Flynn
Founder & Conference Director
Roberta
Jasmontaite
Conference Co-ordinator
Andrea
Bruun
Programme Team
A
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
We're excited to announce the formation of our 2025 Advisory Committee! This group of individuals, selected from across our diverse movement, will play a crucial role in guiding the development of next year's talks and program.
The committee will provide valuable insights into the needs and interests of our community, as well as feedback on talk submissions to ensure a truly representative and engaging agenda.
MEET THE ADVISORY GROUP
Thank you to our 2024 conference team, and the many volunteers who have helped during the event
Are you passionate about connecting and strengthening the movement? do you want to join us on our mission? Fill out the contact form below!
CONTACT US
If you have any questions please contact us via the below form, or alternatively via Instagram direct or Facebook messenger.