Youth Engagement and Participation Team

My name is Aoife, and I joined the EPIC team in August 2023 as the Senior Youth Engagement Coordinator. My role involves providing a safe space for care-experienced children and young people, in which they can come together, build a positive and supportive community, and take part in activities and programs which support their development. My role also involves working closely with EPIC’s Youth Councils and Care Community to develop and implement opportunities for them to have their voices heard on issues related to the care system.

Before joining the EPIC team, I was a Youth Service Project Leader in Dublin and prior to this I worked with young people for a number of years in diverse youth work roles in Ireland and in the UK.

A key motivator in my work are the children and young people. I am equally motivated by my belief in the youth work process and its ability to support the personal and social development of participants. The voices of young people are insightful and as adults if we take the time to listen, we can learn a lot. What do I like most about my job? Seeing young people grow in confidence and overcoming obstacles, and providing opportunities for fun, laughter, and new experiences!

I have a BA in Youth and Community Work from MTU/Tralee IT, and qualifications in trauma informed practice, trauma recovery and drug and alcohol misuse.