Larne student graduates from Airport’s ‘Ignite’ programme

The IGNITE programme, a joint initiative between Belfast City Airport and Cinemagic, launched in 2019 by Senior Vice President of HBO, Production and Incentives and Game of Thrones creator Jay Roewe, will provide potentially life-changing opportunities for over 100 young people across Northern Ireland over a five-year period.

Belfast Met student Olivia, who joined the IGNITE programme in 2019, completed 12 months of workshops, work experience and self-development projects, and was awarded an NLP Diploma in Personal and Career Development at the graduation ceremony, at the Stormont Estate.

In addition to the NLP Diploma, Olivia also picked up a further special merit award for outstanding contribution and dedication throughout the programme.

Michelle Hatfield, Director of Corporate Services for George Best Belfast City Airport, said: “These diplomas and accolades are testament to the effort and dedication these young people have given to the IGNITE programme over the past 12 months, but the real valuable takeaway is the new skills they have developed.

“They have gained greater self-confidence, better communication and employability skills and insight into potential career paths from some of the best talent in Northern Ireland - that is what makes it all worthwhile.”

The event also welcomed 21 new students from various secondary schools and Further Educational Colleges across North, South, East and West Belfast who have been chosen to embark upon the 2020-2021 youth development course.

Ashfield Girls High School, Belfast Met, Strathearn School and Wellington College all had students participate on the programme last year and have had students selected again for this year’s course, whilst six other schools/colleges including Aquinas Grammar School, Blessed Trinity, Campbell College, are coming onboard for the first time.

Michelle said: “Although the programme will culminate in a fantastic, awe-inspiring trip to LA towards the

end of next year for our participants, we hope the learnings and skills they develop throughout their time with us will last them a lifetime, and we cannot wait to kick off the second year of our IGNITE programme with Cinemagic.”

To find out more information about the IGNITE Youth Leadership programme, visit:

www.belfastcityairport.com/ignite-leadership-programme

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