Accelerating the progress and development of teams that have demonstrated a significant impact is what the YSI Elevate initiative is all about. Bringing together teams and specialists in areas such as funding, strategy, PR and communications, enterprise development and innovation, the initiative helps teams to continue to advance their plans through tailored supports. 

Winners of the Young Social Innovators of the Year Awards 2018 "Sexting - Get the Message", from Ardscoil Mhuire in Co Limerick are among one of ten teams participating in Elevate 2018. The enterprising teens are working hard to continue their work towards advocating for a change in the laws around sexting. They explained how Elevate can help them towards their goals, saying, "We hope that Young Social Innovators are able to inspire us and help us grow our ideas on how to maximise our campaign in terms of managing our funds and increasing our campaign’s reach."

"Off Grid", a team with big plans to encourage sustainable practices in schools, said, "Our project will encompass many aspects that we would like advice on such as setting up as an official organisation, handling assets, organisation within the group, communications with schools, and promotion."

Above: The 'Off Grid' team from Sutton, Co Dublin

"HOME", a YSI team from Askeaton in Co Limerick are working hard to raise awareness of direct provision and changing attitudes towards asylum seekers. Motivated to continue their development of educational resources, the enterprising young innovators outlined the importance of Elevate to them, saying, "YSI can provide us with the contacts and direction to fulfil all our goals."

With such aspirations in mind, teams and mentors gathered at launchpad events in LinkedIn's head offices in Dublin and in YSI's new home on the DCU Alpha Campus in Glasnevin. Teams left the kick-off session with a clear ‘Elevator Pitch’ that they can use to attract support for their idea.

Students from St. Joseph's Secondary School in Tulla, Co Clare, whose project aims to spread awareness about unhealthy relationships and the problems that stem from them, summed up the value of the initiative, saying, "we feel that if we continue our project we can make a difference to many peoples lives now and in their lives in the future." 

Above: "Healthy Relationships and How to Recognise Them", from St. Joseph's Secondary School, Tulla, Co. Clare

YSI looks forward to supporting Elevate participants over the coming year, and such support will be provided in a number of ways. For example, teams have special access to the YSI Den where they will have the opportunity to pitch for financial or other supports. Teams are also provided with an exhibition space at a dedicated Impact Zone at the YSI Awards in May. 

Elevate mentors at this year's kick-off event came from LinkedIn, Ibec, Comit, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, The Wheel, The Business Fairy and SEAI.