Community sector boosted by young people on board

Organised by Business in the Community and supported by the Department for Social Development, Project Manager, Denise Cranston explains: “Young People on Board is an innovative and exciting programme designed to help young people (aged 18 – 30) take up leadership positions by matching them with a charitable or local community organisation in or with deprived communities, empowering them to make a positive impact and valuable contribution within their own communities.

“The programme offers organisations an opportunity to improve their leadership, strategic direction and sustainability of their boards and management committees by bringing young people to the table.

“The overall aim is to strengthen and improve the sustainability of the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland by increasing the number of young people on the boards of third sector organisations.”

Judena Leslie, Commissioner for Public Appointments, who was on hand to present the young people with their certificates, adds: Young People on Board is an excellent initiative. It provides support to the young person, helping them with team working, having a buddy on the Board and at-the-board-table experience. In addition, the young people receive leadership training, can attend networking events and learn from team-based project management, all of which can lead to an ILM qualification.

“At a time of leadership change in government here, I am delighted to see a project with this potential underway. It can empower young people to take on a governance role in a supported environment and raises awareness of societal issues; helping them to be responsible business leaders of the future.”