Vince from Northern Ireland

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Vince

"The diversity of people within the programme is amazing. I also love how I am surrounded by like-minded people who work in or are interested in youth work."

What is your name, how old are you, and where are you from?

My name is Vince, I’m 25 and from the town Ballycastle. I became involved with Seeds Of Hope not too long after I went to a Youth Action NI drop-in session. Not long after, they brought up the Seeds of Hope opportunity and briefly explained what it was about.

What is your current background? Are you studying, working, volunteering, or exploring your next steps?

I am currently studying Maths and English in Northern Regional College. I hope to eventually make progress and move on to Youth Work studies in the future.

What hobby or interest do you have that best reflects who you are as a person?

A hobby that reflects who I am is photography and content creation. I enjoy documenting my life through pictures and videos, as to me it is a tangible piece frozen in time that I can always look back on. It lets me see everything I have done and accomplished visually, which is personally meaningful to me.

What interests, experiences, or causes are you particularly passionate about?

I have a huge sense of purpose for youth work, as youth workers have helped me realise my own potential and always empowered me. It has made me realise how important the role is for young people.

What are your personal and/or professional goals for the future?

My personal and professional goals are to push myself through challenges. I really value personal development and I am continuously working on this so that I can be the best person and have the necessary skills for my future.

Has the Seeds of Hope programme influenced your direction, outlook, or mindset in any way? If so, how?

Seeds of Hope has influenced my mindset and direction through uplifting reflection periods. During residentials I journal a lot, as it is a place that really gets you thinking.

What aspects of the programme have you enjoyed the most?

The most enjoyable experience within Seeds of Hope has been the trips, going to different places within Northern Ireland that I had never been to before.

What key insights, skills, or experiences have you gained through participating in the programme?

I have gained a lot of insight from the speakers. The diversity of people within the programme is amazing. I also love how I am surrounded by like-minded people who work in or are interested in youth work. Their passion has been an extreme energy boost for me.