Teenagers from Mayo attend Youth Leadership Conference

SOME 250 teenagers from around the world gather in Maynooth University for Foróige’s Leadership for Life Youth Conference, which brings together young people to learn the skills and confidence to become leaders in their own lives and communities.

During the week-long conference teens learn crucial life skills such as empathy, decision making, problem solving, communication skills, critical thinking and team work.

Inspirational speakers during the week included Joanne O’Riordan, renowned disability activist, and Mayo's Mark Duffy, an independent councillor serving as Mayo’s youngest representative, who had the honour of welcoming President Biden during his homecoming visit to Ballina.

Seán Campbell, CEO of Foróige, said: “Leadership for Life is a circuit-breaker programme and can truly be life-changing for young people. This conference gives them the chance to not just learn from expert speakers and facilitators, but also to develop themselves and grow with each other in a fun and relaxed environment.

“Year on year I’m amazed by what young people can achieve when given the chance and the support. Every young person deserves to be able to access programmes like this.”

Aadila Lyemat (pictured) spoke at the gala dinner explaining her journey throughout the week, saying: “What started as one of the worst experiences of my life has turned into one of the most meaningful. I found strength I didn’t know I had and made a handful of friends who made this journey worthwhile. I went from feeling like an outsider to feeling like I belonged.

“This week taught me that even in the darkest times, there is always hope, and there is always a way forward.”