Why a social conscience makes a difference

TransitionTimes: We all know that transition year is a good opportunity to explore what you want from life.

You might be able to do some good, too, if you decide to take part in community work, such as after-school tutoring. But what about making a lasting difference?

Young Social Innovators (YSI) is a competition that has been mentioned in these pages many times. Set up by Sr Stanislaus Kennedy and Rachel Collier in 2001, it aims to get young people thinking about social issues in their communities and how to go about tackling them - improving life in a practical way.

"A lot of students do community work as part of transition year anyway," says Collier, who is now YSI's chief executive. "Young Social Innovators provides a national framework for this kind of work." The organisation provides training for teachers and recognition and support for students who participate.

Although it takes the form of a competition, Collier believes that the process is the most important thing. Indeed, some of the projects took on a life of their own. "I think, as adults, we see more barriers to getting something done," says Collier. "The students really go for it. If something can't be done, they ask: 'Why not?' "

There are many examples of past projects that changed things for the better in particular areas. One, conducted by students of Davitt College in Castlebar, Co Mayo, has already yielded results. The students conducted a feasibility study for a youth centre in Castlebar. They held a youth forum, conducted a survey and campaigned for a centre through the local media. They opened the centre last summer, after being offered temporary space. They and students from other secondary schools raised funds for equipment and furniture, and now the centre is open two nights a week.

More students are realising that they can make a difference. The growth of YSI has been phenomenal. After three years of a gradually expanding pilot programme, it went national last year, when 1,864 young people took part. This year that number has gone up to 3,300 - and a new dimension has been introduced. In the next few weeks, Speak Out forums will be held throughout the country. The aim is for students to bring their projects to the local community. They will get a chance to present their ideas to local businesspeople and community representatives. "In order for any innovation to take off it needs support, and people in the locality will be able to provide that," says Collier.  - Gráinne Faller

The Speak Out schedule involves seven events, including tomorrow's launch event. Any school or teacher who would like further information on forums in their area can call 01-6458030 or e-mail info@youngsocialinnovators.ie

The dates are: Tomorrow: Cork City Hall.

January 25th: Cross & Passion School, Kilcullen, Co Kildare.

January 31st: Clarion Hotel, Sligo.

February 2nd: Alexandra College, Milltown, Dublin 6. Formal.

February 9th: St Paul's Community College, Waterford.

February 22nd: Moate Community College, Co Westmeath.

February 23rd: Loreto College, Swords, Co Dublin