Celebrating forty years of Waterford Youth Arts
Pictured at City Hall during the Mayoral Reception for Waterford Youth Arts. Photo: Joe Evans
A prestigious Mayoral Reception was hosted this week for Waterford Youth Arts, in recognition of their 40th anniversary.
Since being established, generations have passed through the doors of Waterford Youth Arts.
It has solidified itself as one of the largest and most respected youth organisations in the country.
Thanks to the organisation and its volunteers, the creativity of thousands of young people has been captured and fostered.
A large gathering attended City Hall for the reception this week, which was hosted by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Seamus Ryan.
A message on behalf Chairperson of the group, Robert Brown, was delivered on the day by former Chairperson Breda Murphy.
Breda said: "Waterford Youth Arts has been more than a youth organisation, it has been a home for young people to express themselves, to build confidence, and to find their voices through theatre, writing, art, music, film and performance.
"Generations have passed through the doors, and each one has left its mark on Waterford’s cultural heartbeat. To the directors, staff, volunteers, parents and above all, the young people, thank you. You have enriched our city and inspired us all."
Mayor Seamus Ryan further commended the organisation's staff and volunteers, who have shown tireless support and dedication to Waterford's art scene and its youth.
"The success of Waterford Youth Arts has always rested on the dedication of its people. I want to recognise the volunteers and staff, past and present, whose commitment and energy have been at the heart of the organisation from the beginning" he said.
The Mayor paid special tribute to Ollie Breslin, who is retiring from the group this year.
"Ollie’s leadership, creativity and commitment have left a lasting legacy" Mayor Ryan said.
"As he prepares to retire later this year, we thank him sincerely for everything he has done to nurture generations of young Waterford artists and to ensure that Waterford Youth Arts continues to thrive."
A presentation was also made on the day to recently retired Jill Bouchier and Maria Cullen, who have both provided decades of service to Waterford Youth Arts, helping to shape the organisation into what it is today.
