FIVE young people from Donegal recently joined more than 300 delegates from across Ireland and the United States at Foróige’s Leadership for Life Youth Conference in Maynooth University.
The annual residential conference gives young people the opportunity to strengthen leadership, communication and teamwork skills while connecting with peers who share a passion for making a positive difference in their communities.
The Donegal participants included Amy Boal, Libby Power, Courtney McGrory, JJ Warren and Shay McDevitt. During the week, delegates took part in interactive workshops, explored issues affecting young people today and heard from guest speakers Ray Goggins and Jack Woolley.
Alongside practical leadership activities, delegates explored the issues that matter most to young people. Honest conversations around mental health, equality, climate action, technology and belonging gave participants the opportunity to share experiences, challenge perspectives and learn from one another in a supportive environment where every voice is valued.
The conference also welcomed a delegation of young people from the United States, many with proud Irish roots. Their participation celebrated the enduring connection between Ireland and its global diaspora, creating friendships that cross borders and offering young people the chance to learn from different cultures while discovering how much they have in common.
Eric O’Brien, CEO of Foróige, said “When you bring together more than 300 young people with different backgrounds, experiences and ambitions, something really special happens. They inspire one another to think bigger, dream bigger and realise that they each have the ability to make a real difference.”