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At the recent South Provincial Conference,Scouting Ireland’s Youth Representatives, Conor Bruce and Jake Kavanagh, led an inspiring and interactive workshop that gave young members a platform to share their vision for the future of Scouting in Ireland. Their session, filled with color, energy, and collaboration, reflected the values of inclusion, youth empowerment, and shared leadership that define the Scouting movement today.
Reflecting on Direction and Culture
The workshop invited participants — youth and adult members alike — to reflect on key strategic questions shaping the future of Scouting Ireland. Four main themes guided the discussion:
1. Have we the direction, right?
2. How has culture shifted inScouting Ireland?
3. Are areas under or over-represented in the current strategy?
4. One word for the future ofScouting Ireland.
Have We the Direction Right?
Most participants agreed that Scouting Ireland is moving in the right direction — ‘slowly but surely.’ Many noted that the strategy now connects better to national plans and operations, showing clearer alignment between local needs and national goals. The youth-led approach was seen as positive and necessary, with participants highlighting the importance of keeping young voices central to decision-making.
Several contributors emphasised that while the current direction is promising, continuous communication and member engagement are key to ensuring every Scout feels part of the journey. Phrases such as ‘relevant and inclusive,’ ‘clear strategy,’ and ‘focus on youth leadership’ appeared frequently on participants’ notes.
How Has Culture Shifted in Scouting Ireland?
The conversation around culture (The New Scouting Ireland Culture Guide) revealed a growing sense of openness and progress. Participants described Scouting Ireland’s culture as ‘more progressive,’ ‘youth-led,’ and ‘moving forward.’ The focus on safeguarding, inclusion, and listening to members was recognised as a major improvement over the past few years.
Some members shared that the cultural change is still ongoing — that while positive shifts have begun, consistent communication, support for volunteers, and empowerment of youth leadership remain areas for continued growth. A few comments described the culture as varied at different levels,’ but noted a clear trend toward more inclusivity and collaboration.
Words and phrases from participants included:learning and moving on,’ ‘better understanding of youth and leaders,’ ‘more open,’ and ‘ready to accept challenges.’
Representation in the Current Strategy
The discussion on representation raised thoughtful observations about balance and inclusiveness. Some participants felt youth representation has grown, but not evenly across all levels. Others mentioned that certain areas — particularly local youth forums — need renewed focus to ensure young voices are consistently heard in decision-making spaces.
Feedback such as ‘mixed change,’ depends on people,’ and ‘varied at different levels’ captured the nuanced perspectives of participants. There was widespread recognition that leadership training, mentorship, and continued investment in youth participation structures are vital to sustaining progress.
One Word for the Future of Scouting Ireland
To close the workshop, participants were asked to describe the future of Scouting Ireland in one word. The results were vibrant and hopeful — reflecting optimism, ambition, and unity across the movement.
Common themes included: Fun, Inclusive, Empowerment, Adventure, Progressive, Bright, Initiative, Youth-Centric, and Opportunity. These words capture the shared belief that Scouting Ireland’s strength lies in its youth — their creativity, leadership, and commitment to making the movement stronger for all.
Looking Ahead
Conor and Jake’s workshop demonstrated the true spirit of Scouting — youth-led, reflective, and full of potential. By creating an open and collaborative space, they empowered members to contribute authentically to the national conversation. The ideas gathered during this session will directly inform Scouting Ireland’s ongoing strategy work, ensuring that young people continue to play a defining role in shaping the organisation’s future.
As one participant perfectly summarised on their post it: ‘The future is bright — youth-led and full of adventure.’
YIS, the Working Group Strategy
Thomas Hickey, Jake Kavanagh, EthanCorrigan, Niamh Comey, David Smith, Skye Kay, Conor Bruce, Michalina Pietraszewska, Maia Sharma, Sinead Halpin, Karan Kapoor, Michael Barrett, AnnMcQueen, Maire Fitzgerald, Eoin Callanan, Derek McInerney, Neil Collins, StevenMaclean, Rita Osorio, Sean Sheehan, Aidan Magner and Thomas M. Martens (Chair)
