A group of young people from Derry hosted a ‘human experience library’ this week.
The unique event, held in Seán Dolans GAC, was organised by the Bogside & Brandywell Health Forum’s 'Youth Ambassadors.' The Youth Ambassadors brought together notable figures from the Derry community to share their life experiences.
Young people from across the city had the chance to 'borrow' a person as opposed to a book for ten minute blocks and ask relevant questions, listen and interact with figures such as Children in Crossfire’s Richard Moore, and ‘10 in 10’ triathlete and mental health advocate, Danny Quigley.
Read more: Derry clothing boutique brings new life to vintage clothing
Michaela O’Hagan, Youth Services Manager at the Bogside & Brandywell Health Forum, said it was 'inspiring' to watch the young people engaging and listening to individual stories often of struggle and perseverance.
She said: "We are so proud of our Youth Ambassadors, who wanted to organise this event for their peers. I think what made the event such a success was the diverse line-up of ‘human books’ to choose from.
"The young people in attendance had the chance to ask questions that were important to them and giving them that autonomy I feel, made it more of an authentic experience for all involved. It also gave our young people access to people from different cultures that normally they wouldn’t get the chance to interact with."
The human experience library also benefited from the attendance of North West Spectrum, a group for autistic young adults, members from the Museum of Free Derry, breast-feeding advocacy and perinatal support group; North West Baps and Eritrean native; Zeweldi Geresus.
With other 'human books' from across the community in attendance, there was a rich tapestry of experiences to choose from for the young people.
Michaela also said: "This event is just one of the many events our Youth Ambassadors have planned with lots more to come in the coming months.
"We are lucky to have a group of young people eager to shape not only their own futures, but the communities they come from for the better. At BBHF, we will continue to nurture their ambitions to help improve the health & wellbeing of communities here in the North West."
READ NEXT:
- Muslim Derry girl, 11, 'over the moon' with support for letter criticising use of 'other' on school forms
- Derry salon shortlisted for two prestigious national awards
Foyle MLA claims figures show women’s sector in Derry abandoned by UK Government
Derry mum's pride after autistic child recovers from losing all her hair and refusing to leave home
To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.
