11th June 2026
Foróige hosted its first National Mentoring Recognition Event in RCSI, Dublin on Thursday, 4 June 2026, celebrating the people at the heart of mentoring across the organisation.
While recognition events take place regularly at regional level, this was the first time mentors, young people, parents, staff, funders and supporters came together for a national celebration of mentoring across Foróige. More than forty volunteer mentors were honoured for their commitment and dedication to supporting young people through Foróige Mentoring in 26 counties.
The event was an important opportunity to recognise the impact of mentoring and to celebrate the relationships, commitment and consistency that make this work so meaningful in the lives of young people.
Attendees heard from a parent of a young person involved in the programme, as well as from mentors and young people who shared their experiences of mentoring and the difference it has made to confidence, connection and personal development.
A mentoring match also MC’d the event, reflecting the connection, trust and partnership that sits at the heart of Foróige Mentoring. Inputs from young people throughout the event helped to centre their voice and experience, and highlighted the importance of listening to young people when celebrating and shaping this work.
The event also featured an exhibition area showcasing the breadth of mentoring across Foróige. Through photos, match stories and programme displays, attendees had the opportunity to see the range of mentoring work taking place around the country and the real relationships behind the programme.
Dr Bernadine Brady, from the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre at University of Galway, spoke at the event and highlighted the positive research outcomes for young people involved in mentoring. These include improved emotional wellbeing, better relationships with others, increased school liking and a reduced likelihood of engaging in unhealthy behaviours.
The event publicly acknowledged the valuable contribution volunteer mentors make each week in the lives of young people. Their time, consistency and personal commitment provide trusted support, encouragement and a positive adult relationship that can make a lasting difference.
The first National Mentoring Recognition Event was a powerful celebration of mentoring across Foróige and a proud moment for everyone involved in this work. It brought together the voices, stories and relationships that show the real impact mentoring can have in the lives of young people.
