Young voices leading the way – Advocacy event at Dublin 15 Hub

At the heart of the event were Transition Year students from a number of local schools, who delivered thoughtful and engaging presentations on the challenges facing young people in their area. Participating schools included Le Chéile Secondary School, Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School, Coláiste Pobail Setanta, Hartstown Community School, and Blakestown Community School. Castleknock Community College was also involved in the wider project, although their students were unfortunately unable to attend on the day.

The event was organised by Service Manager Lorraine Halpin and Youth Community and Engagement Worker Teresa Howe along with the D15 Jigsaw team whose leadership helped create a meaningful space for young people’s voices to be heard.

Young people speaking up

The students spoke with insight and confidence about a range of local issues impacting their lives and wellbeing. Their presentations highlighted both the challenges young people face and the opportunities for change, with a strong focus on mental health, access to supports, and the importance of safe, inclusive spaces.

Alongside the student presentations, attendees also heard from Jigsaw staff about the organisation’s work and the broader challenges affecting young people’s mental health, both locally and nationally.

The event also featured a powerful contribution from young author Brooke Coleman, who performed original poetry reflecting on what it is like to be a young person today. In addition, Jigsaw Youth Advocate Mariam Sobayo spoke about her own experiences, further grounding the discussion in the lived realities of young people.

Engaging with decision-makers

A key part of the event was the opportunity for young people to share their perspectives directly with local and national representatives.

We were delighted to welcome:

Teachtaí Dála (TDs):

• Paul Donnelly (Sinn Féin)
• Roderic O’Gorman (Green Party)
• Ruth Coppinger (Solidarity)

Fingal County Council representatives:

• Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary (Fine Gael)
• Cllr Ted Leddy (Fine Gael)
• Cllr Angela Donnelly (Sinn Féin)
• Cllr Gerard Sheehan (Aontú)
• Cllr John Burtchaell (Solidarity)
• Luke Daly on behalf of Cllr Mary McCamley (Labour Party)

Their attendance created a valuable space for dialogue, where young people could speak directly to those in positions to influence change.

Meaningful conversations and real engagement

One of the most positive aspects of the day was the level of engagement from councillors and TDs. There were open and constructive discussions about:

• What can be done locally to better support young people
• The role of national policy in shaping young people’s experiences
• How services like Jigsaw can be strengthened and expanded

Young people were not only heard—they were taken seriously. Their ideas, concerns and lived experiences sparked important conversations and reflection among decision-makers.

Building momentum for youth advocacy

This event highlighted the impact of creating spaces where young people can share their voices and be part of shaping solutions.

It also demonstrated the value of collaboration between schools, youth services, and local representatives. By bringing these groups together, meaningful conversations can take place—grounded in the real experiences of young people and focused on practical ways forward.

Moments like this highlight what can happen when young people are given the opportunity, support, and platform to share their perspectives. Bringing together schools, services and local representatives creates space for conversations that might not otherwise happen—and helps to strengthen connections across the community.