One of our mentors, Alannah Flood Magennis and programme co-ordinator Eibhlín Harrington contributed in person to discussions.

Read notes and view images from their contributions:

Alannah Flood Magennis, What’s Your Issue? Arts Collective, SWAN Youth Service

Alannah described her work as a peer mentor, which she finds very rewarding. In addition, she acts in dramatic works with other young people. She explained this has many benefits: new friends, self-expression, and self-understanding, for example. She said that her work with SWAN Youth Service has also brought opportunities to speak to people in power, such as the Taoiseach at the Child Poverty Summit. It is vital, she said, that decision-makers listen to children and young people.

Eibhlín Harrington, Director of Youth Work, SWAN Youth Service

Eibhlín said that her experience in youth worth has taught her the value of exposure to the arts. A lot of young people SWAN work with don’t have instruments, cameras, etc. at home. And children grow up in very controlled environments nowadays, so space to try out these activities, with the autonomy to decide what to do, and how much time to put into it, is very important. So is access to artists. To get quality arts you need a good relationship between the student and the artist; someone who can see potential and develop a relationship over an extended period of time.  Funding for artists in residence is key.