YSI Speak Outs
Each year YSI organises regional events called “YSI Speak Outs”. These events give young people a platform to talk about social issues and communicate their YSI project work in creative ways. All young social innovators are invited to attend a Speak Out event in their region where they can meet up and share ideas.
YSI Speak Outs are about promoting advocacy among young people and giving them the skills and confidence to advocate on their chosen social issue.
At a Speak Out event, each YSI team is given two minutes to present their social innovation initiatives to an audience which includes representatives from local councils, special guests, community leaders and educators. A YSI panel is also present at these events to provide feedback to project teams.
YSI Speak Outs are fun and they are a great opportunity for young people taking part in the programme to develop their communication and presentation skills. At these events participants can get an insight into the other projects that being undertaken in their region and in their communities.
Speak Outs are hosted in many locations throughout Ireland from Donegal to Cork and feature addresses from political representatives, celebrities and social justice campaigners to encourage, motivate and support YSI participants in their work.