PROJECT: LEADERSHIP TRAINING
CATEGORY: HI-M8
SPONSORSHIP: BBC CHILDREN IN NEED
ATTENDANCE: 35
Overview
Being a leader is more than just holding positions of authority; it’s also about influencing people and opening doors for good. For young people, acquiring these abilities is crucial to navigating the complex world we live in and creating a better future—rather than just being a nice-to-have. These golden words, one of many, were etched in the hearts of the young, aspirational leaders from Diverse Youth Ni. The youths were honoured to be in the company of MLA Kate Nicholl, a member of the House of Representatives and a dynamic, capable political figure who led them through one of the sessions in the leadership program.
Encouraging Future Leaders – A Trip to Stormont
A group of eager young people from Diverse Youth NI set out on an enlightening trip to Stormont, the location of the Northern Ireland Assembly, following four weeks of intensive leadership training. This field trip was intended to build the youth’s confidence and aspirations to become political leaders and agents of positive change, while also giving them personal exposure to the legislative process and procedures involved in policymaking.
The attendees found that their trip to Stormont was a priceless educational opportunity. They witnessed how the Assembly functioned, the nature of committee meetings, and discussions, and the processes involved in reaching decisions that led to the creation of Northern Ireland’s laws and policies.
In addition to its educational value, the youths’ journey to Stormont was a major source of inspiration for those who wanted to be in politics. They saw directly the influence that public servants can have on both their local communities and society at large. Their conviction in the value of civic involvement and the necessity of actively influencing Northern Ireland’s future was strengthened by this.
Each participant received a certificate of participation as evidence of the leadership training program’s success. Their ambitions to work in politics and public service were stoked by this accolade, which represented their dedication to both professional and personal growth.
The choice of one of the young people to get mentoring from House of Representatives member Kate Nicholl served as another illustration of the program’s influence. The young person received priceless advice and encouragement from this mentorship program as she set out on her path to a career in politics.
