On the 25th October 2023, people across the country gathered together to celebrate Lá Gaisce. #LáGaisce is a day when people come together to celebrate the achievements of young people, as well as to celebrate and thank all participants for their commitment, support, resilience, and passion as part of Gaisce – The President’s Award.
As part of the day of celebrations the organisation is calling on people across Ireland to stand with young people in recognition of their commitment to personal development. Gaisce – The President’s Award is Ireland’s national youth award and is a self-development programme for young people aged 14-25. It is a direct challenge from the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, to all young people to dream big and fulfil their potential.Young people in their thousands have already started and are actively pursuing their Gaisce Award journeys right across Ireland. In total, 485,000 young people have registered for Gaisce, with over 250,000 completing their award. Each year 25,000 young people register for their Bronze, Silver and Gold Gaisce awards. These are young people across every county in the country participating in activities to develop and progress themselves. To achieve a Gaisce Award, participants need to complete activities for at least one hour a week in each of the three challenge areas which include Personal Skill, Community Involvement and Physical Recreation. Speaking in advance of Lá Gaisce, Avril Ryan CEO, said “A Gaisce Award is far more than a medal or certificate, it represents the personal growth of a young person and their commitment to the development of vital social and emotional competencies, from confidence and self-management to resilience and empathy – each Award representing an individual story for a young person to share and reflect on. Those taking part come from communities the length and breadth of the country and from diverse backgrounds, all united in their commitment to self-development. We are immensely proud of all of those who participate. We want everyone to join us in celebrating their Gaisce achievements and journeys with us on October 25th and join in the fun! ”
Pic Credit: Maxwells
