Meeting my new co-workers has been such a joy. I really feel welcomed into the YAP Ireland office, and everyone has been great about making sure I am settling in to the city, and that I am getting the most out of my experience with YAP Ireland. Immediately, I was given the opportunity to attend the “Older and Bolder” convention, which dealt with linking older and younger generations because often those two groups are not given the opportunity to have their voices heard. I was able to meet two other advocates and their young people, which was great to get to know some of the Dublin youth. One young girl we were with was an 11 year old and she was so outgoing and full of questions for this American visitor. We talked about music, food, pop stars and joked around for the day, it was a great introduction.
The President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins gave a speech at the conference as well, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to hear him speak. It was interesting to listen to his speech, because he has a background in sociology and seems to really ‘get’ the cause of social problems, and the need for social justice and human rights. As an aspiring social worker, it’s really refreshing to hear a political official talk about these subjects, because in the states these topics are often ignored unless you’re talking about budget cutting.
Throughout my time in YAP Ireland I will be given the opportunity to work on some creative projects with young people, and I think this will be a great way for me to get to know some of the youth in a fun, creative way. I was able to participate in a games night, where kids and their advocates come into the office and play different video games. This was another great icebreaker to meet some new young people in a more relaxed environment than a formal meeting.
All in all I’m settling into my new home and office and I’m looking forward to seeing more of Ireland, and (hopefully) leaving a positive mark at YAP Ireland.
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