70 young people have already taken part in the cross-community programme
Teenagers from across Belfast are learning to lead, not leave, their communities as part of a new project.
The new cross-community and cross-border programme is designed to build confidence, leadership, and lasting friendships for young people from across North, South, East and West Belfast.
Over the next three years, ASCENT, delivered by Active Communities Network (ACN), which is a UK-wide youth and community development charity with a strong base in Belfast, will work with 350 young people aged 12–15. The project is delivered in partnership with Ledley Hall Girls and Boys Club in East Belfast, Rosario Youth Centre in South Belfast, and Lagmore Youth Project in West Belfast.
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Through weekly sessions, trips and residentials, the programme will focus on building resilience, self-esteem and early leadership skills.
A strong focus will be placed on cross-community and cross-border partnerships, ensuring young people experience leadership and learning opportunities that extend beyond their own areas.
Already, 70 young people have taken part, gaining their Level 1 Young Leaders Award, enjoying team-building days, and preparing for upcoming social action projects that will benefit communities across Belfast.
Future highlights include a major residential trip to Carlingford, where participants will plan how to take their learning back into their own areas, and a city-wide celebration event showcasing their achievements.
Jim Donnelly, Joint Chief Executive of Active Communities Network, said: “The ASCENT project is about giving young people a voice and the confidence to use it.
“By linking groups from different parts of the city, we’re breaking down barriers and helping a new generation see what they can achieve together. These experiences deliver the kind of skills essential to building better futures.”
The project’s themes include confidence building, maximising potential, early leadership, and learning about different communities and cultures.
The ASCENT project, launched by ACN is part of the Belfast PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan, led by Belfast City Council and supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
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