Thirty-two young people from the Ardoyne and Shankill areas of North Belfast came together in Queen’s University Belfast’s Whitla Hall to celebrate their graduation from the Level 4 Certificate in Youth Leadership and Community Action (30 CATS). Delivered in partnership with Foróige and R-CITY, the innovative two-year programme empowers young people aged 16 to 18 to develop leadership skills, build confidence and deliver meaningful community action projects.

The ceremony marked the second cohort to complete the qualification and was filled with pride, laughter and emotion as graduates were joined by family, friends, youth workers and community partners to celebrate their achievements.

Opening the ceremony, Professor Margaret Topping, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement, congratulated the young people on their achievements and reaffirmed that the certificate is now a recognised part of Queen’s qualifications framework.

Dr Wayne Travers, Chairperson of Foróige, reflected on his own experience completing the award, describing how the lessons he learned continue to shape his professional journey and his belief in the value of youth leadership. Followed by Sarahjane Waite, R-CITY Director, who shared her path to becoming a youth worker, describing the challenges and rewards of serving her community.

One of the graduates, Emma McAllister, spoke about the transformative impact of R-CITY, explaining how the programme has strengthened her confidence and inspired her ambition to study Law and Politics at Queen’s. Closing the ceremony, Zara Meadows, a local poet and writer, expressed her pride in being from the Greater Shankill area and encouraged the young people to use their experiences to create positive change within their communities.

Following the ceremony, First Minister Michelle O’Neill praised the graduates on Facebook, saying:

“This is a powerful image of young people from the Shankill and Ardoyne coming together from across the community, breaking down barriers and building new friendships. We must continue to empower our upcoming generations to lead positive change and build a brighter future. Well done to everyone involved.”

Dr Ryan Feeney, Vice President and Registrar at Queen’s, commended the programme’s impact, saying:

“These young leaders are a credit to their communities. They leave equipped with the skills, experiences and confidence to continue making a positive difference.”

Now in its second year, the partnership between R-CITY, Foróige and Queen’s University Belfast continues to grow in strength and impact, creating opportunities for young people to lead, learn and contribute to a brighter, more inclusive future.

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