Mayo partnership launches empowering new 'YES' initiative for TY students
Castlebar Chamber, in collaboration with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Mayo and First Choice Credit Union, has announced the launch of an empowering new initiative for local transition tear students of Davitt College, St. Joseph’s Secondary School and St Gerald’s College, Castlebar.
Entitled My Young Empowered Self (YES) Programme, it is delivered over a seven-month period with ATU Mayo.
The programme aims to equip selected TY students from local schools with essential leadership, personal development, and business skills.
Throughout the course, participants will engage in hands-on learning covering core modules including:
· Effective Communication
· Leading and Motivating Teams
· Strategic Decision-Making
· Conflict Management & Resolution
· Practical Project Management
· Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
A central pillar of the programme is community engagement.
Over the seven months, students will collaborate directly with local voluntary organisations, applying their skills to real-world projects that benefit the wider Castlebar community.
Speaking at the launch, Maria Staunton, president of Castlebar Chamber, said: "We are delighted to see this initiative come to fruition.
"Engaging directly with our three local secondary schools highlighted a fantastic opportunity to involve our young people in the future planning and vitality of Castlebar's voluntary sector.
"Young people have so much to offer—great ideas, time availability, boundless energy, and a real passion to get involved.
"Castlebar’s future belongs to them, and this programme ensures their voices and contributions shape our town going forward. We really look forward to seeing how the pilot cohort progresses."
"We extend our sincere thanks to First Choice Credit Union for their generous sponsorship and belief in our youth, as well as ATU Mayo for their invaluable expertise in designing and running this high-impact curriculum."
Anne King, CEO of First Choice Credit Union, said: “First Choice Credit Union is proud to support the My Young Empowered Self (YES) Programme and invest in the potential of young people across Castlebar.
"As a member-owned, community-focused organisation, we believe in creating opportunities that help young people develop confidence, leadership skills and a strong sense of community responsibility.
"We look forward to seeing the students put their learning into practice and make a positive contribution to the wider community.”
Michael Gill of ATU Mayo stated: "ATU Mayo in Castlebar is delighted to collaborate on the YES Programme supporting Transition Year students as they explore their strengths, develop leadership skills, and engage meaningfully with their community.
"This is central to our mission as a technological university. This programme gives young people the space to grow, to challenge themselves, and to see the real impact they can make in Castlebar.
"We are proud to help shape a learning experience that empowers students today and strengthens our community for the future. Braitheann ár dtodhchaí ar ár ndaoine óga”