The Lawrence Centre in Drogheda was alive with youthful exuberance and positive energy on Saturday for the Youth Connect Fest 2025 which drew a huge turnout of young people and their families.
It was another fantastic day to celebrate and showcase the talent of young people and celebrate the services and activities that are here in Drogheda to offer support and connection.
A huge thanks to all the clubs that took part and shout out to Karma Dance Crew, Starlight Academy, Toccata House Music School and of course the bands and singers of Basement Sounds from Boomerang Youth Service. Our sustainable fashion show was put together by a number of club members with from local charity shops.
Studies show that taking part in activities outside school has multiple benefits for the health and wellbeing of children and young people. Saturday showed just how much there is to choose from right on our doorstep here in Drogheda.
The event was organised by the SICAP Network of Services for Young People in Drogheda. This is a network of local organisations that plan and coordinate supports and services for young people in our community. This network is facilitated by Louth Local Development’s Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP) team and is committed to enhancing the wellbeing, education opportunities and advocacy for all young people in Drogheda.
Sports, dance, art, music, scouting and other activities were showcased on the day with goodie bags for 300 young people.
Network members including Boomerang, Foróige, YouthWork Ireland Louth, CYPSC, Holy Family School Completion, Extern Intensive Family Support Services, LMETB Youth Service and Louth Local Development have developed great relationships over the last few years, working hand in hand to make this and other events a reality for Drogheda.
Speaking at the launch Joanne Murphy, Louth Children and Young Person’s Services Committee (CYPSC) Coordinator one of the funders for the event said:
“Participation and opportunities to connect improves outcomes not only for Children and Young People but also for their families. Louth CYPSC is therefore delighted to support Youth Connect Fest Drogheda 2025. We really appreciate the clubs and organisations that have given up their time to be with us today and for bringing so much colour and enthusiasm to the event.
Christina King, Youth and Education Coordinator from Louth Local Development said at the event:
It’s been a fantastic day, the performances were incredible, the sustainable fashion show saw young people source clothes from our wonderful local charity shops and that was a real highlight. The dancers, singers, and musicians brought so much energy and life to the Lawrence Centre. It has been a privilege to be part of it.
