Mayo learners celebrate publication of new book
Learners and staff from Youthreach Ballina were joined by families, friends and community partners for the launch of Stories and Art Inspired by Friendship at Ballina Library last Thursday.
Over 70 people attended the launch, including learners and staff from Youthreach Leitrim, Sligo and Kiltimagh.
The book marks the conclusion of Youthreach Ballina’s two-year Creative Schools journey and features an impressive collection of original stories and artwork created by learners. The publication grew from creative writing workshops with Alice Kinsella and art workshops with Alicia Dempsey, with friendship chosen by the learners as a theme that was meaningful to them.
The stories explore friendship in many forms, including new connections, loyalty, loss, misunderstanding and personal growth. Readers will also encounter sporting triumphs, wartime missions, superheroes, aliens and unexpected acts of courage and kindness.
The accompanying artwork celebrates identity, creativity and self-expression. The book’s cover is based on a mural created in the centre, with learners contributing images representing aspects of their individual identities.
The launch included readings by learners Mia Sylvester and Thomas Sweeney, along with live music performed by Youthreach Ballina’s learner ensemble under the guidance of music teacher Dennis McCalmont. Learners studying hotel, catering and tourism also helped to welcome guests by preparing and serving refreshments.
Speaking at the launch, Youthreach Ballina co-ordinator Damian Evans said: “This book exists because our young learners had something to say, and we wanted to help them find the voice to say it. Not all of our learners began this journey feeling confident about their ability to create something. Now they have published a book, and we hope they are as proud of themselves as we are of them.
“Focusing on creativity allows us to celebrate what young people can do rather than measuring what they cannot do yet. The stories and artwork in this book show imagination, honesty, humour, courage and a real sense of hope.”
Special recognition was given to English teacher Grainne Kelly, who applied for the Creative Schools programme and led its delivery across the two years.
During their Creative Schools journey, learners worked with creative associate Deirbhle Ní Éilí on clay, printmaking, visual art and writing. They also collaborated with the WhistleBlast Quartet to write and perform an original song at Ballina Arts Centre and Galway’s Town Hall Theatre.
The launch was attended by Pat Howley, director of organisation support and development with Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board, along with Councillor John Caulfield, cathaoirleach, Mayo County Council, and representatives from local education, youth, arts and community organisations, including Involve Ballina Youth Project, The Clarke Museum of Irish History, An Garda Síochána Mayo, Foróige, Youth Action Ballina, the Mary Robinson Centre, Local Creative Youth Partnership, Creative Flow Studios, and Ballina Arts Centre.