Young People Lead the Conversation on Diversity and Inclusion
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July 24, 2026
Young people on Springboard’s Journeys programme discuss the importance of diversity within society, and the impact of racial injustice.
As part of the Journeys programme, supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the SEUPB, Springboard Opportunities brought together participants from different communities to attend a shared Masterclass. Young people engaged in important conversations about identity, inclusion, and the impact of racial injustice. The programme continues to create opportunities for young people to connect across traditional divides while developing the skills and confidence to become positive changemakers in their communities.
The session was delivered by community organisation Anaka Women’s Collective, where facilitators and young people with lived experience shared impactful personal stories and encouraged honest conversations about racism, belonging, and the value of embracing diversity in today’s society. Participants drove conversation by asking thoughtful questions and challenging assumptions in a respectful and welcoming space. The open dialogue served to break down misconceptions and deepen understanding across different groups. For the young people, this reinforced the importance of creating communities where everyone feels valued and included. Attendees were inspired by their peers who delivered the session and invited questions and dialogue from the group.
One young person commented,
It was such a good and safe environment for people to share their views on diversity in Northern Ireland. I felt like it was easy to share my thoughts. I really enjoyed learning from the young people who delivered the workshop”
By bringing together young people from different backgrounds to learn from one another, the Journeys programme continues to demonstrate that meaningful conversations can build stronger relationships inspired by empathy, and equip the next generation to shape a more inclusive and peaceful future in NI.
PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.
Notes to Editors
- The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) is a North South Body with the statutory remit for managing EU funding programmes within Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland
- PEACEPLUS is a cross-border funding Programme designed to support peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland and has a total value of €1.14 billion, to be delivered over the next four years.