Youth Night is an initiative of the Department of Education and delivered in partnership with the Education and Training Boards, the National Youth Council of Ireland and the youth work sector. It is a national celebration of youth work, shining a light on the youth workers, volunteers and organisations who create spaces where young people feel safe, supported, included, connected and inspired.

We were delighted to celebrate the inaugural Oíche na hÓige, Youth Night on Friday 21st November in both Clonakilty and in Cork city with GroundFloor and Monday Night Live. We had a wonderful night of music, food, games, art, dance, chats and fun. It was lovely to see family, friends and members of our local communities joining us to recognise and celebrate the impact that youth work and the YMCA has had on their lives.

In the words of one of our past participants and young leaders April Tambling

“Youth, with boundless energy, passion, and creativity – the heartbeat of progress. The journey you embark upon, through youth work, is one that opens doors to a world of possibilities. It’s a pathway illuminated by the light of education, mentorship, and personal development. 

Where other people have two or three hurdles to jump over, some people have hundreds and youth and community work helps us tackle those hurdles, levels the playing field a little bit! It’s about bringing about a more equitable space in a world full of inequality. Youth and community work acts as a bridge, connecting dreams to reality. It provides a space for us to discover our strengths, hone our skills, and embrace our unique talents. In the process, we not only become architects of our own destiny but also contribute to the construction of a better society. 

In YMCA I had people who believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself and that has made all the difference.”