Eight Waterford young people take part in a national leadership conference

Eight young people in Waterford were among more than 300 delegates from Ireland and the United States who took part in Foróige’s Leadership for Life Youth Conference at Maynooth University. 

Carrie Fitzgerald, Amira Murphy, Abbie-Rose McDonald, Mabel Cassidy, Dillion Hanley, Emma-Kate Richards, and Aoife Murphy represented Waterford at the annual residential conference, which aims to help young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, and make a positive contribution in their schools, clubs, and communities. 

Delegates took part in interactive workshops, leadership challenges and group discussions designed to encourage them to step outside their comfort zones, recognise their strengths and develop practical life skills. 

The conference also allowed participants to meet and form friendships with young people from across Ireland and overseas. 

Keynote speakers Ray Goggins and Jack Woolley addressed the conference, sharing stories which encouraged delegates to embrace challenges, believe in themselves and make a difference. 

Erin O'Brien, CEO of Foróige, said: "When you bring together more than 300 young people with different backgrounds, experiences and ambitions, something really special happens.

"They inspire one another to think bigger, dream bigger, and realise that each has the ability to make a real difference."

"Every young person has the potential to lead; sometimes they just need someone to believe in them first," she said.

"This conference is about giving young people that belief, alongside the skills, experiences and friendships that will stay with them long after they leave Maynooth," she added.

"The energy, optimism and compassion we see here each year reminds us of what young people can achieve, both now and in the future, if they are given the opportunity and the right support.”