Tallaght teen encourages children to take part in public speaking event

A TALLAGHT teenager is encouraging young people to take part in an annual public speaking event where children and young people up to age 18 are given a platform to talk about the issues that matter most to them.

The event, called Child Talks, is run by the Ombudsman for Children’s Office and 16-year-old Katherine Amusan is encouraging people to take part, with this year’s theme being ‘My Hopes for the Future’.

Katherine, who attends St Mark’s Community School in Springfield, took part in Child Talks last year and said that it gives young people an opportunity to tell their own story.

“My story last year was about my hair and coming to terms with my identity,” she said.

“My culture is something to be proud of and I spoke last year about how I don’t need to separate my African culture from being born and raised in Ireland.

“Participating in Child Talks and getting to tell my story was a very liberating experience and it really grew my confidence.

“I would tell anyone thinking of applying to go for it. You don’t need to have a fully fleshed out story – it can just be a thought or a spark – anything you are passionate about.

“You get so much help along the way. It is an amazing opportunity to get a platform you would not normally get.”

While Child Talks has undergone changes since it first began four years ago, in particular in relation to the pandemic, it continues to provide an opportunity for children’s voices to be heard.

Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, said: “The past 18 months has highlighted the importance of hearing children’s voices and their concerns.

“Child Talks gives us a real insight into the problems and issues children are facing and helps us to get a better understanding of their world.

“At a time where children’s voices have often been forgotten, Child Talks gives young people a unique platform to share their story, vision, and hopes for the future.

“We want to hear from children from all over the country and from all backgrounds.

“We also want to hear from children with disabilities or those who may need additional supports. There is no need to worry if you have never spoken in public, we will help you and work with you.

“Child Talks has changed over the past four years, largely due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but the message and value has remained the same.

“Child Talks gives our speakers the confidence and courage to speak up about the issues that matter to them and find the value in their voice.”

Taking place on November 19 to mark World Children’s Day, Child Talks 2021 will be a hybrid online-physical event streaming live from the RDS in Dublin.

To take part or find out more email communications@oco.ie, send a voicenote to 087 102 9039 or visit http://www.oco.ie

Applications close at 5pm on Wednesday, August 11.