Young Voices

Self image was the big issue at this year’s Reference Panel Conference and Regional Conferences.  Last year’s Reference Panel, in response to the issue of bullying and negative social pressures focused on creating positive environments for young people. This year’s Reference Panel focused on the other side of the coin – young people’s perception of themselves – how they can develop inner strength, resilience and a positive view of themselves, particularly in the face of adversity. As it is impossible to eliminate all negative pressures, it is essential for young people to develop these personal qualities if they are to grow to their full potential. As the proverb goes, “It is better to wear a good pair of shoes than to try to carpet the whole world”.

A sense of their uniqueness and the freedom to be their true selves was considered extremely important by the Reference Panel. They felt that despite the social pressures it was well worth the effort to achieve it.  It was essential learning for young people in Foróige.

Friday Night

Getting elected on to the reference panel, to me was a shock. I was over the moon and was intrigued to see what I was letting myself in for. Coming from a small club it was the first time that someone from our club got elected. The night before, as I packed my bag I began to feel anxious and nervous. I am an outgoing and confident person but this experience was going to be something I had never done before.

A 15 year-old from Coolock in Dublin has secured an all expenses-paid trip to Washington DC after winning a hotly contested competition run by Foróige Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). Laura Greene, a 15-year-old Transition Year student from Colaiste Dhulaigh in Coolock, set up her business – ‘Laura’s Crystal Ware’ - customising hand-painted glassware. Laura has a love of all things craft related so was delighted to get the opportunity to combine her passion with a business.