Advocating for youth services
Two young people have been chosen to represent Cork in a national initiative promoting investment in community youth work.
Emma Crean from Togher, Cork city, and Clonakilty-based Alex Appelbe will represent their communities in the National Youth Council of Ireland’s (NYCI) 2026 Local Champions.
The champions are young people aged 18–25 who have experienced the benefits of youth work and want to help ensure that youth services are recognised and supported by decision-makers.
Alex said: “An increase in youth service funding is imperative to supporting young people in Ireland. Youth services are becoming a lifeline for young people in the turbulent world we live in.”
Over the coming months, Emma and Alex will take part in a specialist training programme delivered by NYCI, including workshops on advocacy, communications, and engaging with policymakers. They will use these skills to speak with local representatives and highlight the positive impact youth work has on young people and communities.
Mick Ferron, CEO of the NYCI, said youth work plays a vital role in supporting young people to build confidence, develop skills, and connect with their communities.
He said: “The Local Champions programme ensures that young people who have experienced the impact of youth work first-hand can share those stories directly with decision-makers.”
Supported by Community Foundation Ireland, The Local Champions initiative forms part of NYCI's ongoing campaign to ensure that young people and youth work receive the necessary investment and support.
Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland said young voices are essential in shaping the future.
She said: “Delivering for people, place and planet is central to the work of the Community Foundation as a philanthropic hub.
“We are proud to partner with the NYCI and support the Local Champions Network which amplifies those voices. We look forward to hearing how this inspirational group of young people connect with local representatives and input into the decisions which impact their communities.”
To learn more about the Local Champions initiative and NYCI’s work to advocate for increased investment in youth work, visit youth.ie.