Skerries teen is chosen as an ambassador for creative event 

OVER 700 free events have been organised this weekend to encourage children and young people to fire up their imaginations and take part in creative activities in their area.

Cruinniú na nÓg, a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme will take place nationwide this Saturday, June 15. 

Sarah Fitzgerald (15), Ben de Barra (13, and Adam Cunningham (14) have been chosen as ‘creative ambassadors’ for the event.

The first ambassadors to be appointed to the initiative, all three share a passion for creativity and already have a roll call of creative achievements to their name.

Ben de Barra, a filmmaker from Skerries, said: “I have always loved films and I had lots of stories I wanted to tell so it felt totally natural for me to start making my own films. 

“It’s a really creative and fun way to bring your ideas, your surroundings and your imagination to life. 

“So many of my creative heroes are Irish filmmakers – especially Jim Sheridan and Kristen Sheridan. 

“Cruinniú na nÓg could be the spark that ignites the next generation of Irish filmmakers so I would encourage everyone to participate on June 15 and unlock your creative hero.” 

Speaking at his meeting with the three ambassadors, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said: “I am really pleased to welcome Sarah, Ben and Adam as the first Cruinniú na nÓg Ambassadors for children’s creativity. 

“Their passion and skill in coding, filmmaking and literature is inspiring and in their role as ambassadors they’ll be able to encourage their peers to explore their creativity.

“It’s great to see so many events taking place nationwide this year as part of the second annual Cruinniú no nÓg.”

The Taoiseach said being involved in cultural and creative activities is hugely beneficial for young people.

“It broadens the mind, it’s a great way to make new friends, it’s good for your mental health and most importantly it’s great fun,” he added. “I’d encourage families and young people to get out and explore what’s on offer across the country on June 15.”

Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, said: “Although only in its second year, Cruinniú na nÓg has already grown in ambition and scale with almost double the number of free activities taking place across the length and breadth of the country this year. 

“Everything from shield making to game coding, Japanese kite making to dark-room photography and tapestry weaving workshops, there’s a strong emphasis on participation and workshops designed to spark an interest and encourage the inner creative in children to try something new or fulfil a secret ambition!” 

For more information, visit www.cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie

Meanwhile, Fingal Cruinniú will be a day-long event held in Swords Castle on June 15.  Included will be Storytime, Circus performers, Lego workshops, art workshops, a magic show and a puppet show. An Animal Roadshow will be present all day which is sure to be a hit with animal lovers.