New Online Platform for future Change-makers

DUBLIN, Ireland, 17 January, 2024 – Officially launching today (17/01/2024) the Young Social Innovators (YSI) online Youth Space platform empowers young people nationwide to start their social innovation journey on their own terms and in their own time. Supporting and enabling positive youth-led initiatives outside formal educational environments, the site’s six main sections serve as a dynamic hub, allowing the next generation to leverage an array of focused resources and access insider tips from a range of experts.  

Commenting on the launch, YSI CEO Roger Warnock said: "Today, we're thrilled to introduce Youth Space, an exciting new platform that empowers young people with the tools, resources, and inspiration they need to drive positive change in their communities. With Youth Space, we've created a one-stop shop for young social innovators, offering a wealth of articles, polls, and toolkits, plus an online, self-paced course. 
“It's not just a website; it's a dedicated space to support a movement and a valuable resource for young changemakers. I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to IBM and the Community Foundation of Ireland for their invaluable support in making this idea a reality.” 

Amelia, a 6th year student from Co. Kildare who spent some time exploring the site, commented: "Youth Space is seriously helpful; there are some fantastic articles, handy tips, real-world examples, and a sweet short course that I'm definitely sticking on my CV! It's a great way to show I'm all about making a positive difference. If you've got any questions about social innovation and how to get involved, this is the place to start!"

The design and development of the site were made possible by contributions of €100,000 from IBM and €95,000 from Community Foundation Ireland, enabling additional educational assets including online courses and micro grants, plus support for YSI's social impact fund. 

Deirdre Kennedy, IBM CSR Manager for Social Impact Programmes, said; "IBM encourages a collaborative and diverse approach to problem-solving, aiming to harness the collective creativity of teams to drive innovation. This is why we’re delighted to support the Youth Space platform, which will allow young curious minds to propose fresh ideas in a safe and secure environment and develop solutions that can make a difference to real world challenges."

Denise Charlton, Chief Executive, Community Foundation Ireland added; “Young people with vision, passion and energy now have a new online support which equips them with the tools to help shape the future of local communities, our country and our planet. The level of information and advice available is incredible, drawing from the vast experience of projects by Young Social Innovators. As a partner with our own mission of Equality for All in Thriving Communities, we wish the tens of thousands of young changemakers who will use Youth Space every success.”

ENDS 

Contact: Meadbh Whelan, Alice Public Relation, Tel: 01-5582151 / 085-2039693, Email: meadbh@alicepr.com / media@alicepr.com 

Notes to Editors: 

For more information about Young Social Innovators visit www.youngsocialinnovators.ie and youthspace.ie 

Follow them on Facebook @Young Social Innovators, on X/Twitter @YSInow and on Instagram @ysinow 

The design and development of youthspace.ie is by the YSI communications team, in collaboration with www.kooba.ie