Magnificent Seven Laois teens are leaders of the future

A MAGNIFICENT Seven Laois teenagers are on track to become leaders of the future, after a national conference held at Maynooth University.

Seven young people from the county were among more than 300 teenagers who take part in Foróige’s Leadership for Life youth conference last week.

Riona Dunne, Amy Troy, Chloe Troy, Cian Phelan, Ryan O’Farrell, Cormac Dunne and Jack Donoghue made new friends and memories and developed new skills at the intensive week-long event.

They said the experience helped them to grow in confidence, connect with others and develop a strong sense of leadership in their everyday lives.

As the action-packed conference closed, Chloe said: “I didn’t know what to expect coming here but I’m leaving with new friends, new skills and a stronger sense of who I am. I can’t wait to apply this back home.” 

 Now in its 15th year, the Leadership for Life youth conference is designed to empower young people to become ‘strong, effective and compassionate leaders’ in their own lives and communities.

Throughout the week, teenagers took part in workshops on team building, critical thinking, communication, problem solving and self-awareness. Guest speakers from the worlds of politics, business, sport and the not-for-profit sector also shared their leadership experiences.

The programme equips young people with the confidence, vision and skills to lead in their schools, communities and wider society.

With branches across the county that include Portlaoise, Mountrath and Mountmellick, Foróige describes itself as a youth organisation with a difference, where young people are supported to take charge of their capabilities, set their own agendas and shape their journeys through life.