Drimnagh graduates get leadership awards

By Maurice Garvey

YOUNG students from Drimnagh recently graduated with leadership qualifications from NUI Galway.

Ten Drimnagh youths were awarded university certificates in Youth Leadership and Community Action at a graduation ceremony in Galway on October 15.

The group (aged 15–20), attended the ceremony having successfully completed an eight-month Youth Leadership and Community Action training programme.

The programme was funded and delivered by the St John Bosco Youth Centre in Drimnagh, who also organised a return bus trip to Galway for graduates and family.

St John Bosco youth workers Lorraine Flynn and Stephen Sharpe, were in attendance for the ceremony.

The programme required youths to develop their leadership skills and carry out community action projects.

Ms Flynn said the programme provided a great opportunity for youths to advance their education and life opportunities.

“This programme offers young people the opportunity to expand on their learning while acquiring a level 6 qualification,” said Lorraine.

“With progression on to third level education being low in the Drimnagh area, this will hopefully encourage other young people to make positive educational choices going forward.”

Lucy Mc Loughlin (19) who graduated in the programme, was proud to “receive my award in front of my Mam and brother.”

Fiona Freeman, whose son Adam Freeman (18) graduated on the day, felt the programme “helped him mature a lot and think of others.”

“Adam has always been a kind person but this really opened his eyes to how he can help others,” said Fiona.

Developed by the national youth organisation Foróige, the training programme is accredited by NUI Galway as a Foundation Certificate in Youth Leadership and Community Action.

St John Bosco Youth Centre invite young people interested in getting involved in the programme to contact Lorraine Flynn by email at Lorraine@thebosco.ie.