What is it?
In a religiously divided society following the 1987 Enniskillen bombing, the Spirit of Enniskillen Trust was created by the late Senator Gordon Wilson to support young people into making their own contribution towards discussion, learning and change.
Explore is the annual international leadership programmes of which the Spirit of Enniskillen Trust helps young people make their own contribution towards society.
What got Sheena interested in it?
After taking part in a Community Relations weekend in the Mourne Mountains focusing on issues surrounding dealing with different identities in society and how these issues affect people both privately and publicly. As I am a member of Belfast Activity Centre they have encouraged my interests in people‘s views and opinions and enjoyment in learning about different backgrounds and meeting new people. This opened an opportunity to take part with St Malachy‘s Secondary School in completing an OCN Level 1 in ”growing up in a divided society“ which taught me a lot about different religions and their thoughts. - Sheena
Process
The Community Relations Development Officer at Belfast Activity Centre, Enda Young got me interested in this project - Spirit of Enniskillen trust. I study C.O.P.E at our school and I am really interested in the lesson. I filled out an application form for the trust, with Dr Pinkerton and Enda Young giving me reference‘s I got a reply from the trust requesting I come along for an informal interview where I talked with lots of other young people, all applying for this opportunity, it was a fun filled day, I felt excited and nervous because I really wanted the opportunity. - Sheena
Next steps - where Sheena will travel, what this opportunity brings?
The first induction day was on Saturday the 5th of April, were we would meet our groups and have the chance to ask questions. Also I have been invited on residential to the ShareCentre in Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh. Following that…. Vermont, USA 30th June- 15th July 2008 where the real experience begins. According to the trust the Summer will be immense with day trips to different places, all enabling us to share the experiences with different people from different religious backgrounds and ethnic groups all taking part in workshops.
How Sheena feels?
Completely Excited!!!! I‘m truly grateful for this amazing opportunity and also thankful for Dr Pinkerton‘s reference and support.
