Inclusion in Action: My Experience at the Youth Climate Leader Programme

On Saturday, May 25th, 2024, I had the honour of speaking to a vibrant group of 18-30-year-olds embarking on an 8-month Youth Climate Leader Programme, partnered with TikTok and The Mary Robinson Centre.

A Day Focused on Inclusion

The topic of the day was inclusion. I was thrilled to be joined by my colleague and friend, Paddy Maughan of SICAP, who shared his journey as a member of the Irish Traveller Community and the discrimination he has faced. Our session was 30 minutes, split evenly between us. Speaking at the Mary Robinson Centre for the first time was a real treat, and the warm welcome from Susan and Jordan made the experience even better.

Engaging with Future Leaders

The group was attentive and eager, fully embracing the concept of inclusion. We aimed to instill good practices that they could carry throughout the programme and beyond as they create their own climate change events. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and commitment.

Reflecting on the Experience

After the talk, Paddy and I felt uplifted and decided to debrief over coffee. We discussed what worked, what we could improve on, and what was next on our journey. It was a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come and to plan our next steps.

A Disheartening Encounter

However, our day took a surprising turn at a local coffee shop. Despite placing the order myself, the young trainee repeatedly asked Paddy about my preferences. This left me feeling embarrassed and inadequate, a stark reminder that, even in 2024, there are still moments when inclusion falls short. While I don’t hold a grudge against the trainee, it was disheartening that the trainer missed an opportunity to correct the situation. This experience, especially after coming from such an uplifting event, absolutely hurt my heart and highlighted how much work we still have to do.

Moving Forward Together

This experience underscored the importance of our work. It reminded me why we need to continue advocating for inclusion and educating others. Despite the setback, I’m hopeful that through ongoing efforts, we can make a real difference.

Join the Movement

Let’s continue the conversation about inclusion and climate action. Follow along with my journey and get involved in creating a more inclusive world. Share your stories and experiences with us!