The programme is a community development initiative by Irish in Britain, provided free as part of Irish in Britain’s investment in the future of community organisations.
It is a tailored course providing essential skills, tools and information for those considering, or already in, trustee and governance roles in local community organisations and charities.
The event was opened by Ambassador Martin Fraser who paid tribute to the work that so many organisations and individuals do to support Irish community and to all the graduates who were dedicated to acquiring the skills and knowledge to play a role.
Tradition of volunteering
Irish in Britain’s CEO, Brian Dalton, told the graduates that “each of you is part of a long-standing tradition of volunteering in the Irish community” and that they shouldn’t underestimate the real impact people who become trustees can make.
Three speakers followed to talk about the role trustees play in their organisations.
Mike McGing, Director at Brent Irish Advisory Service, talked about the possibility of making a difference in the lives of people in your community by bringing different skills to trustee boards.
Fionuala Bonnar, CEO at icap, talked about both her own experience of being a Trustee for Irish in Britain and of working with icap trustees in her role as CEO.
She said as a trustee “you get more than you give” and that working with a diverse group of people means “every day is a school day”.
Rewarding
Keith Doyle, Co-Chair at Southwark Irish Pensioners Project, talked about the ageing local community in Southwark, and the continuing need for support from the Project.
He said how rewarding it can be to be part of an organisation helping address problems such as isolation. He stressed that any trustee will become an ambassador for the organisation they are part of, so it’s about something that “is in your heart and soul, not for CV.”
Irish in Britain delivery partner, Diane West, who designed and delivered the programme said a few words on the course.
She highlighted how it can help people understand the sector and equip them to support a range of different organisations. She thanked all the graduates for their enthusiasm and commitment.
The Ambassador then presented each of the graduates with their certificates (see photos in gallery above) and congratulated them on their achievement.
Irish in Britain would like to thank Ambassador Fraser, his wife Deirdre and all the team at the Embassy for helping ensure the evening was such a success.
If you are interested in applying for the next programme, which will open later in 2025, please email Ann Gould agould@irishinbritain.org