DUBLIN GAA star and Ballymun legend Philly McMahon is backing an initiative that provides free life and business skills training to young people.
Social activist Philly dedicates much of his time to help inspire and develop the talents of youngsters so they can reach their full potential, regardless of background.
The six-times All Ireland winner recently teamed up with Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (HBC) to help launch #YouthEmpowered 2019.
Celebrating its third year, the programme delivers skills-based workshops with employers or interactive eLearning courses for free at www.youthempowered.ie.
It’s designed to support and empower those aged between 16-25 who are not in education or employment across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Over the last two years, 1,300 young people have received free training in financial literacy, project management and sales and business planning.
The ambition for this year is to engage a further 1,000 young people, and #YouthEmpowered Digital Hub participants will also embark on a journey of self-development, learning fundamental relationship skills and how to communicate more effectively in life and in work.
Famed for his sporting prowess, #YouthEmpowered ambassador Philly is a hugely successful young businessman off the field as well as an advocate for the importance of social change and the rehabilitation of young people struggling to find their way.
“I’m delighted to be supporting the Youth Empowered programme and to be encouraging young people back to education and employment,” Philly said.
“The pursuit of continuous learning is not a given for everyone.
“For some it’s circumstantial, but for others it’s a lack of confidence, a lack of belief in their own ability.
“A free training and mentorship programme like this could really make a difference to school-leavers and job-seekers all over Ireland, giving them the boost, they need to turn a new page and change their life direction.
“I’m looking forward to being part of their journey.”