Last week, our Gaisce Youth Ambassadors had the pleasure of visiting Belfast for the first Joint Youth Ambassador Programme with The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Northern Ireland!
It was a trip filled with informative visits to Stormont, where our YAs had the chance to explore the grounds, learn about the history of the buildings and parliament, and meet with Nick Mathison MLA, Chair of the NI Education Committee. While speaking with Mathison, our Youth Ambassadors had the chance to discuss important topics such as support through education, financial barriers, and how they feel the education system can be improved. It was an insightful discussion, where Ambassadors from the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland learned from each other, gained new perspectives, and had their voices heard and respected. From exploring parliament buildings to also visiting the picturesque corridors of Belfast City Hall and learning about the history of the Titanic in the Titanic Belfast Museum, their trip was full of knowledge, new learnings, and shared experiences.
Alongside informative visits and a very intense game of ten-pin bowling, our Youth Ambassadors were also invited to a special dinner at Stormont Hotel. While dining, we had the chance to hear stories about the history of both programmes, the lasting impact on participants, and how young people’s stories and ideas can truly make a difference. We also had the pleasure of hearing from Dr Howard Hastings DL, Peadar Ó Lamhna, and Mrs Catherine Champion, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of County Down, about their careers, advice, and experiences with the programmes. We even had the pleasure of enjoying a performance from our very talented Gaisce Youth Ambassador, Hannah, who concluded the night with a wonderful flute piece.
Our first Joint Youth Ambassador Programme was a huge success and such a fantastic opportunity for our Youth Ambassadors to explore civic life and diplomacy, learning from each other, making memories, and creating lifelong friendships!
A huge thank you to all The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Northern Ireland team for their hard work and dedication to making this trip one to remember!
