Offaly teenager participates in leadership programme

Big Brother Big Sisters' Of Ireland is delighted to have had three young people involved in the recent Albert Schweitzer Leadership for Life Programme including Michael Bracken from Offaly. The programme is for 15-18 year olds whom have already shown capacity for good leadership but whom are looking to build on the skills they already have. The week was run by Foroige in partnership with Ireland Chamber, United States between August 17-21 2009 in the Kings Hospital School, Palmerstown, Dublin. This is the first time the programme has been run outside the US. Michael Bracken from Offaly, along with Galwegians Daniel Deverey and Catherine Casey were representing Big Brother Big Sister for the week. They participated in group workshops on communication skills, team work, problem solving, vision and goal setting. They also attended inspiring talks from inspiring leaders in their own fields such as Alan Kerins, Dylan Haskins, Jacqueline Murekatete and Padraig O'Ceidigh. All of this mixed in with sporting events and an unforgettable graduation dinner and disco proved to be an inspiring and life changing week where not only did the young people learn life skills but also made friends for life. The week was attended by 220 young people from Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, US, South Korea, United Kingdom and Nigeria who all shared each others culture. Thanks to The Lions club in Tullamore for sponsoring local participant Michael Bracken and giving him the opportunity to attend this prestigious event. Well done to Foroige for organising such an amazing week, their staff and volunteers for all their effort and enthusiasm and all the young people involved especially our three participants. Michael, Daniel and Catherine who did us all very proud. If you would like to find out more about the Big Brother Big Sister Programme please log onto www.bbbsireland.ie or www.foroige.ie , Email; caroline.mcdermott@foroige.ie or call caroline on 086-8596866