Students from Queen’s Business School have participated in a transformative Community Impact Project with Sólás nan Óg, a Belfast based youth project for young people with various additional learning, physical, social, emotional and behavioural needs. All of Sólás nan Óg programmes are conducted through the medium of Irish language, as a project of Irish Medium youth and community charity, Glór na Móna.

Over 300 post graduate students took part in hands-on building work over a five-day period revitalising and repurposing a vacant area of land. The project included constructing stimulative recreational and play areas, sensory spaces and upgrading a community garden for growing food and social enterprise activities.

Professor M.N. Ravishankar, Dean and Head of Queen’s Business School said: “This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between education and community. Our students didn’t just build structures — they built connections, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the role business can play in shaping society for the better. Sólás nan Óg’s vision and ambition inspired us all.”

Professor of Practice Julie McCandless, Director of Business Engagement from Queen’s Business School added: “Our students gain so much from these experiences — from developing practical skills in project management and teamwork to building meaningful relationships with local volunteers. It was fantastic to see them working side-by-side with the Sólás nan Óg team, creating something truly special.”

Sólás nan Óg co-ordinator Padraigín Nic Mhathúna, shared her enthusiasm, "This project, which was supported by colleagues from our local community garden, Gáirdín an Phobail, will provide a massive relief and enjoyment for our young people. We want to thank the Queens Business School for their support and their students for their diligence over the course of the busy week."

Seán Mac Bradaigh from Gairdín an Phobail explained how the project came about, "For years we have been working with local schools and youth clubs, training the next generation how to grow sustainable food and protect our fragile ecosystems. This project brought hundreds of local people from all walks of life together to do something positive - to build top class facilities providing an outdoor youth sanctuary which will help us respond to the challenges of climate change."

QBS Community Impact is Queen’s Business School’s flagship experiential learning initiative, embedded at the heart of the postgraduate student journey. Delivered in partnership with local charities, it offers students the opportunity to take part in a legacy build — leaving a tangible mark on the local community while developing as leaders who inspire, serve others, and create value through social impact, integrity, and sustainable success.