Class of 2024
Class of 2024
Adam is a second year BSc student in Politics, International Relations and Sociology at University College Dublin. His studies include an emphasis on Social Policy and Theory. Adam currently works as part-time Development Officer for Citywise Education, a role he began at 18, becoming the youngest person to hold the post in the history of the organisation. In this role, he oversees the organisation’s fundraising work, donor/corporate relations and develops new programmes and initiatives within the community of West Tallaght. For the first time ever, Adam has helped the organisation successfully achieve a three-year funding cycle through Rethink Ireland and funding through Erasmus+. Adam sits as a member of the Department of the Taoiseach's 'Shared Island Youth Forum' and the Community Foundation Ireland's 'Youth Advisory Panel' where he withholds a strong passion for improving education in underserved communities and advocates for tackling education inequality, poverty and social issues in Ireland.
Alánna is a Geography and Geosystems student at the University of Galway, originally from West Cork. She serves on the National Youth Committee of Ireland, leading youth consultations on climate action, equality, and reduced inequalities. Alánna is dedicates her time to her students union, as a division 2 hockey player, to the National Student Engagement Program and as a Youth Work Ireland facilitator. She represents Irish youth as a delegate to the EU, advocating for democracy and voter engagement. Currently on placement at MKO, Ireland's largest environmental consultancy, Alánna works on environmental impact assessments for proposed wind farms. Her international involvement includes projects like Sauti Youth, for Non-Confrontational Local Government Accountability in Tanzania and Ireland. She has a unique outlook on advocacy and policy work having a scientific and environmental law background. Through different projects Alánna continues to dedicate her time to environmental advocacy and youth empowerment.
Alex is a final year law and French student at University College Cork. He has a keen interest in access to justice issues, having been Clinics Officer with the UCC Free Legal Advice Centre and Debating Convenor with the UCC Law Society. Alex also has an interest in diplomacy and international relations. He travelled to Switzerland, Israel and Palestine as part of the “Building Walls Breaking Walls” programme and to Shanghai, China on a study exchange. Alex has represented Ireland internationally on numerous occasions, including at the European Student Parliament and the International Economics Olympiad. He was also a winner of the Rotary Youth Leadership Development Competition and travelled to Stormont, Dáil Éireann and the European Parliament with fellow young leaders from across the island of Ireland. During an Erasmus year, Alex completed an internship at the European Parliament in Strasbourg which furthered his interest in European and international affairs.
Annie is a final year Health and Society student at Dublin City University. She is passionate about helping others and improving the healthcare system. Annie contributes to making a difference in the lives of others through her regular volunteer work at Barretstown and Child Vision. She has also fundraised for prominent charities such as The Irish Cancer Society and Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. Annie cares about inclusivity in education. As a DCU Access Ambassador, she advocates for inclusivity for second level students who face barriers entering third level education through mentoring and workshops. Annie is researching the experiences of midwives working with culturally diverse women. Her dedication to unravelling complexities within healthcare practices underscores her determination to enhance care quality. Annie recently completed a prestigious HR internship at Arachas, gaining insights into corporate dynamics and human resources management. She has a relentless commitment to fostering positive change in healthcare and beyond.
Cameron is a second year Politics and International Studies student at Ulster University in Belfast. His is driven by his interest in policy formulation and governance, particularly within the United States. He engages with the Agora Think Tank, focusing on foreign policy to promote peacebuilding and social action. As a One Young World Ambassador, Cameron advocates for inclusivity and believes in the power of education to combat intolerance. Whilst in school, he helped launch the Diana Award’s Anti-Bullying Programme in Northern Ireland, raising awareness about the prevalence of bullying within education. Cameron is committed to giving back to his community and leads the Ulster University Belfast Community Choir, providing a welcoming environment for students and staff to meet, share stories, and celebrate cultural diversity through music. He dedicates his time as a peer mentor for the Lisburn and Castlereagh Youth Council, where he guides participants in developing essential leadership skills.
Cliona is a dynamic leader with a passion for community service and education. She is a member of the St Vincent de Paul society and is also a Eucharistic Minister, leading faith projects with compassion, earning the Pope John Paul 2 Gold Award. Cliona engages in Business Professional Women’s Debate Competitions, to hone her communication skills, and to stay informed on political affairs. She a self-driven entrepreneur and founded the Power School of Music, where she instructs children of all ages. Volunteering at PALS Youth Group and the Ulster Project Kansas, Cliona is dedicated to fostering inclusivity in her local community. She has organised and contributed to various Cinemagic Projects and where she enjoys expressing her creativity. Cliona is a dedicated leader and committed to serving the community.
Conor is a Politics and History graduate from Dublin City University and is currently studying a master's degree in International Relations. His primary areas of study are Irish and EU foreign policy. Conor has been actively involved in club/society life throughout his time in DCU. He re-founded the DCU Chess club after the Covid-19 pandemic and led as their chairperson. Under his tenure, the Chess society won the DCU "Best New Society" award. He has also previously been the events manager, secretary and treasurer in the Politics, History and International Relations Societies. Conor's passions include debating, history and Scór, a GAA ran competition which seeks to promote the Irish language, Irish song/dance and all other aspects of Irish culture. He has a keen interest in sports, participating in gaelic football, basketball and badminton from a young age as a player, coach and referee.
Daithi is a final year Media Management student at Ballyfermot College of Further Education and DCU. Passionate about education, he actively engages with students, advocating for alternative routes to academic and professional success. Daithi has participated in speaking engagements and career fairs where he has shared his own journey to students aiming towards further and higher education. Alongside working part-time throughout the years, he has also completed an Erasmus internship in Germany in the summer of 2022. Outside of his professional and academic commitments, Daithi is an avid sports fan and has dedicated personal time to various sports. He enjoyed coaching his local school’s athletics team in his final year of his leaving certificate studies. Daithi hopes to further his skills in the media industry, where he has a keen interest in the areas of advertising and communications.
Disha is a second-year Medicine student at Queen’s University Belfast. Having lived in both Northern and Republic of Ireland, she has had the unique opportunity to see the cultural nuances and differences across this island, enriching her understanding of diverse perspectives within society. Disha's passion lies in enhancing healthcare access for marginalised communities and advocating for their representation within the system, as well as increasing public policy in healthcare that addresses systemic inequities and ensures equitable healthcare delivery for all. While at Loreto Bray Secondary School, she was elected Head Girl, where she refined her leadership and public speaking skills. Growing up, Disha organised and celebrated Indian cultural events in Ireland, fostering a sense of cultural identity among first-generation youth by promoting cross-cultural understanding within the community. Beyond academic pursuits, she has a love for music, languages and Irish dancing, which she has been practising since the age of four.
Eóin is a Second Year Law with Politics and International Studies student at Ulster University in Belfast. He volunteers within the student community as Course Representative for his classmates and a Student Trustee in Ulster University Students’ Union. Eóin ran in the local elections in 2023 in Northern Ireland for the Alliance Party in his local area and is passionate about youth involvement within politics. He continues to be engaged with the Alliance Party and politics in NI. Eóin also is a Trustee for the Northern Ireland Youth Forum and was previously their Treasurer. Through the NI Youth Forum he has represented and helped to amplify the voices of young people in Northern Ireland. Prior to joining the NI Youth Forum Eóin was a young leader within the Scouts Association and still volunteers with them as part of their Community Impact Group.
Florence is a final year LLB student at Brunel University London. She is the inaugural winner of the Helen Grindrod Prize from the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn. An advocate for social mobility, she is also a director at the charity State2Bar. Florence has significant experience in the voluntary sector and leading on issues facing young people in her community. She works as a Mooting Officer at her university, is the former Head Girl of St Vincent’s Secondary School Dundalk and Chairperson of Louth Comhairle na nÓg. Florence is passionate about peacebuilding and reconciliation. She is a member of the Shared Island Forum and deputy director of the youth management board at Restorative Justice for All. Florence has a keen interest in human rights law and is a student representative for Amicus who are a charity who fight for those facing a death sentence in the US.
Jonathan is in his third year studying History at Trinity College Dublin. He has a particular interest in 18th century Ireland and the origins of the Union. Jonathan is an enthusiastic Unionist, who believes in a Northern Ireland that works for all. He is active in both local politics and the Loyal Orders. Jonathan remains passionate about the need for empathetic dialogue, of which he describes his time in Dublin as being ‘invaluable’ in helping bridge conceptual divisions. His passion for young people has seen him participate in the Saphara programme, a cross-community venture helping educate impoverished children in India. Moreover, Jonathan is an active member of his church, volunteering in summer camps and as a youth leader. He has a further love for sport, being involved with Dublin University Athletic Football Club, as a player, treasurer and social media manager.
Justin is a fourth-year Medical student at University College Dublin (UCD) and All-Ireland Scholarship recipient. He is particularly passionate about Public Health and the positive impact it can have on society. He undertook a Public Health Summer Research Programme last summer at Washington University, Missouri. He was exposed first-hand to many of the Public Health issues faced by the city of St. Louis such as drug use and healthcare access, through volunteering at weekends and shadowing at healthcare clinics. This experience further fueled Justin’s passion in this area and motivation to contribute in a meaningful way. He continues to work with a team of researchers at St. Jude’s Children Hospital on a project relating to paediatric oncology. Justin is a UCD Ad Astra Music Scholar for piano and cello, regularly performing at concerts. He also speaks fluent Irish and volunteers as an instructor and lifeguard for Water Safety Ireland.
Laoise is a Galway girl, an MA Public Policy student in the University of Galway and a BA Government (Politics, Economics and Law) graduate. Passionate about social justice, she is politically active with Sinn Féin, serving as Chair of Ógra Shinn Féin in Galway. Being a Gaeilgeoir from a Gaeltacht area, Laoise is committed to the revival and protection of the Irish language. Her thesis is exploring the impact of housing shortages on Irish language erosion in Gaeltacht areas. Laoise is also the founder of PolSoc, the non-partisan political society at the University of Galway. Through the society, she has helped create an inclusive space for all students to engage in activism, discussions and charity work for local causes. One of Laoise's main passions is GAA, especially captaining her local camogie team, coaching the next generation of young players in her community and advocating for more women in sport.
Lisa is an MSc Economics student in Trinity College Dublin, an ECB Women’s Scholar and Trinity European Excellence Awardee. Prior to this, she graduated with a BA in Government studying Politics, Economics and Law at the University of Galway. A passionate Gaeilgeoir, Lisa completed a diploma in Gaeilge and held the position of Treasurer in the University of Galway’s An Cumann Gaelach society, supporting the promotion of the Irish language on campus. She is passionate about social justice and is a Gold Gaisce candidate, having worked with St Vincent de Paul, Special Olympics Ireland, Jigsaw, and Helplink Mental Health as well as with Aidlink in 2018 in Uganda. Lisa is interested in economics and finance, specifically in monetary policy and EU governance. She was previously awarded a 2nd place prize in a third level competition for an essay written about the impact of the single market on Irish economic history.
Milo is a third-year Politics student at the University of Liverpool, from County Derry. He helped re-establish his university’s Irish Society in September 2023 and currently serves as its President, coordinating events and promoting Irish culture within the city. Milo has participated in a program organised by the Faith and Belief Forum, collaborating with a Member of Parliament (MP) in Liverpool to develop a sustainable community garden. The project contributes to the Grow West Derby charity and supports the Fans Supporting Foodbanks network. Dedicated to local politics and community engagement, Milo has gained direct experience in political environments. He has previously worked in the constituency office of an SDLP Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and is currently completing an internship in Westminster, in the office of a Labour MP and Shadow minister. Coming from a cross community background, Milo is committed to bridging divides and fostering unity in Ireland.
Molly is a third year Music student in the TU Dublin Conservatoire. She is training as a soprano with piano. Molly has a deep commitment to helping all people and has learnt a lot from volunteering with the mental health service Text About It: 50808. A passionate activist for the climate, she has organised and delivered speeches at climate change protests. Molly has spoken to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Climate Action and the Youth Assembly on Climate Change. She has also given a TedX Talk on the topic. Molly teaches singing and piano lessons to students from all ages. She has a commitment to advocate for and provide accessible music lessons for everyone.
Molly is a third-year Law with Politics student at the University of Glasgow. She is an enthusiastic, passionate individual who takes any opportunity to make the world a better place. Molly has contributed to her community through fundraising efforts and volunteering with charities like St. Vincent de Paul, foodbanks and immigration centres. She is also an active member of her student community with involvement in numerous clubs and societies, serving on the Gaelic Football committee and delivering Glasgow University Union’s Freshers’ Week 2023. With a keen interest in politics, Molly is passionate about international relations, foreign policy, and comparative political systems. She was selected to visit the European Parliament in early 2020 and has been involved in local political canvassing in Northern Ireland. As well as her academic pursuits, Molly is a sports enthusiast, excelling in Gaelic football in which she has represented her county and is a qualified coach.
Morgan is a second year Irish Studies student at University of Liverpool and is from East Belfast. Morgan helped found the Secondary Students’ Union NI (SSUNI) in 2020, serving as its Mental Health Officer in the first year, and writing the Mental Health Report which led to changes in counselling provisions in schools across NI. He then served as President where he oversaw the Shared Education report and contributed towards growing the organisation’s membership to 40,000 stduents before his departure in 2022. He has appeared before the Stormont Education Committee and the Shared Island Initiative. Morgan is passionate about the future of our islands and has keen interests in identity politics and post-conflict societies. In his spare time, Morgan is teaching himself BSL, and hopes to sit his GCSE Irish, despite not learning it until university. He is also a big Christy Moore fan.
Niamh holds a first-class honours in Economics and Social & Public Policy from the University of Glasgow, where she is currently completing a Masters in Economic Development. She is the recipient of an Adam Smith scholarship for academic excellence, and received a Clark Mile-end bursary, which recognises her balance of academics with extra-curricular achievement. Niamh is passionate about the women’s involvement in sport and is proud to have represented Northern Ireland at multiple European Netball Championships. As a sports scholar, Niamh is keenly involved in university sport, having captained the netball first team for 2 years. As a member of the netball club’s executive, she secured funding to set up a 5th competitive team, allowing more girls the opportunity to play university sport. Niamh worked with Glasgow University Sports Association in the running of Freshers’ Week activities, promoting involvement in university sports across campus, and aiming to increase student engagement.
Oisín is from Donoughmore in County Cork. He is a third year BCL (Law and Irish) student in University College Cork. This programme combines a law degree with the study of the Irish language, an ideal combination for his passions. Oisín has a keen interest in the law and has participated in debates, moot courts and mock trials. He is currently undertaking a work placement with the Department of Justice in Dublin, focusing primarily on data protection law at a European Union and national level. Passionate about the Irish language, Oisín has served as Cathaoirleach of An Chuallacht Ghaelach in UCC and is active in promoting the Irish language. He has been politically active for several years and has contributed to events on the reunification of Ireland, international solidarity and language rights. Oisín enjoys music and plays the uilleann pipes.
Oliwia is a final-year student majoring in Political Science & Economics at Trinity College Dublin. Passionate about European integration, promoting democracy and fostering youth political participation, she aspires to contribute to international policymaking upon graduation. Oliwia currently holds the position of Ambassador to Ireland for the European Student Think Tank. In this role, she works to actively engage Irish students in the European policymaking process while contributing to articles and policy briefs on EU issues. Oliwia additionally serves as the analysis editor for The Colloquium, Trinity’s international affairs magazine and a mentor for the Laidlaw Schools Trust. As a Laidlaw Research & Leadership Scholar, Oliwia conducted an independent research project on expatriate voter behaviours and interned with the Foundation in Support of Local Democracy in Warsaw. She played a key role in organising the Foundation’s ‘National Congress of Local Cooperation’, enhancing the capacities of Polish NGOs and local government representatives.
Peter is a second-year Global Business student at DCU and is currently undertaking an internship with AIB Capital Markets. He will complete his final two years of study in Brock University, Ontario, Canada. With an entrepreneurial spirit, Peter has also founded two businesses. During his time at secondary school, he was an influential figure on the student council; his passion to lead and inspire change led him to overseeing the post-Covid return to school initiative. Peter is an accomplished golfer and has served as Junior Captain of Killarney Golf and Fishing Club. His commitment to making a difference was piqued when he volunteered with The Ireland Funds in New York; an experience which provided him with an invaluable insight into the true value of philanthropy. He continues his service work by participating in local fundraising and Chamber of Commerce events.
Rachel is a second year student studying Law with Politics at Queen’s University Belfast. She is passionate about creating an open and diverse platform for Young Unionists, where they can be educated and empowered. Rachel plays an active role in the Unionist Youth Network Executive Committee, holding office as Treasurer and Press Officer, often representing the group on news and media platforms. She is passionate about empowering young women and encouraging them to get involved within politics. Consequently, she recently co-founded the Women’s Committee, within the Unionist Youth Network, on which she sits as Vice-Chair. Rachel has a great interest in policy and law-making processes. During her internship at the DUP Headquarters, she completed comprehensive policy reports on Community Pharmacy, and Travel Networks which have (alongside studying law) cemented her passion for advocacy. Rachel is passionate about advocating for social justice, those impacted by adoption, mental health and disabilities.
Rebekah is a third year History student at Ulster University in Coleraine. Rebekah has represented students at Ulster for three years. She is the current School Rep for Arts and Humanities and has worked as a Campus Ambassador, providing support and assistance to prospective students at Ulster. In this role, she spoke publicly about her experiences and provided campus tours. Rebekah is an enthusiastic historian and takes advantage of every learning opportunity. She has earned a place on the Flanders Fields Bursary Scheme for 2024 where she will work in Brussels for one week, uncovering Irish involvement in WWI. Rebekah values teamwork and problem-solving, skills that she has developed through completing her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. The experience challenged her resilience but developed her confidence and leadership abilities. Rebekah is passionate about promoting disability equality and is determined to prove that disabled people deserve equal opportunities in professional settings.
Róisín is a master’s student in International Human Rights Law at Queens University Belfast, having previously graduated with a degree in History and International Relations. At Queens’, she has been the President of the Feminist and Equality Society, the Campaigns and Events officer for the Politics Society, and is the Women Student’s Association Chairperson. Róisín has a passion for advocating for the rights of marginalised communities. She has spearheaded motions regarding Provisions for Pregnant Students and Parents, campaigned for consent training, and fundraised for various charities. Róisín also organised a series of panel discussions comprising of politicians, charity reps, and activists to explore topics such as “Feminism and Refugees/Asylum Seeking people”, and “Consent Talks and Women in Politics.” She believes that your voice is the most important thing you own and hopes to continue empowering and advocating for others.
Sarah is a third year Law student in Trinity College Dublin. She is committed to bringing awareness to the inequalities in educational opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Last year, Sarah was a committee member of the NYCI’s Youth: 2030 Committee. They created and launched a resource for youth workers and young people called ‘Dear Poverty’. It focused on bringing awareness and an understanding of poverty, by taking a deep dive into the topic through case studies and spoken word. As a Trinity Access Programme (TAP) Ambassador, she volunteers to help students from DEIS and TAP Linked Schools in accessing further education. Currently, Sarah is the Volunteer Forum Coordinator of Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union, where she helps to organise fundraisers and volunteering opportunities for students. Sarah is extremely passionate about equal opportunities for all children and hopes to work in this area upon finishing her education.
Seán is a third year Environmental Science and Engineering student in Trinity College Dublin. He is passionate about using scientific knowledge, to deliver innovative climate action and forging inclusive climate consensus. Seán is keenly interested in international affairs. He was invited to Brussels to participate in the EU Youth-Conference Week, where he advocated for regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices while speaking in the EU Hemicycle. Seán is the Managing and Musical Director of “Trinitones”, a well-known Acapella group. He has led tours to Australia, Singapore, and South America. They regularly perform at high-profile events across the country. Previously Seán ran the group’s social media platforms with over 500,000 followers. As the Public-Relations Officer of the Trinity Vincent DePaul Society, he runs Street Outreach programs around Dublin’s inner city among other community/charitable activities. Seán has been accepted to UNITECH International; a STEM leadership development programme for ‘Masters of Engineering’ students.
Thomas is a final year Politics and International Studies student at Ulster University and hails from Rathcoole in North Belfast. He is the Chairperson of the Ulster University Alliance Party society which he helped reconstitute in 2022. In this role, Thomas has organised events for students at the university around LGBTQIA+ Rights and young people getting involved in politics. He was also elected to the executive board of the Alliance Party in 2023. Coming from a working-class community, Thomas is passionate about greater involvement of marginalised groups in society, especially that of young and LGBT+ people. This led him to become involved with youth groups in his local community. In his spare time, Thomas enjoys running and listening to music.
Tom is a final year Mathematics and Economics student at Trinity College Dublin with a keen interest in governance and management. As the Secretary of the University Philosophical Society, he has organised weekly debates on issues such as the constitutional future of the island featuring a range of politicians, activists and academics. Having grown up in Newry, Tom has an appreciation of the power of dialogue that facilitated the peace process and enjoyed working with other young leaders through the Common Purpose Legacy programme. He also has experience in corporate consulting through his previous internships with BCG and KPMG. Additionally, Tom has a passion for economics demonstrated in his role as the Launch Manager for the Student Economic Review, and through his study of health economics in his thesis. He is a passionate and driven individual who believes in the strength of diverse opinion and goal focused governance.
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