A CELEBRATION OF YOUTH, IDENTITY, AND HEALING:
Globally, LGBTQ+ rights continue to be challenged, from restrictive legislation in Hungary and parts of the United States to the recent UK Supreme Court ruling narrowing the definition of “woman.” In such a climate, Pride remains an essential symbol of resilience, hope, and advocacy for the next generation. “And because there are still young people who need to see that they are valued, loved, and celebrated exactly as they are.” A CELEBRATION OF YOUTH, IDENTITY, AND HEALING With the strong focus on inclusion, empowerment, mental health “Pride is still needed because equality isn’t yet a given,” Jennifer says. awareness, and creative expression, the event promises to be a joyful, impactful celebration. It will offer young people the tools to express themselves, build resilience, and connect with peers and role models who affirm their worth. community connection to quiet spaces for reflection, will be a night—and a moment—to remember. PRIDE. RESILIENCE. IDENTITY. SUPPORT. MIND. BECAUSE EVERY YOUNG PERSON DESERVES TO SHINE. From live performances to art workshops, and from vibrant
JENNIFER ECHOES THIS PASSION, SHARING HER DEEP PERSONAL CONNECTION: “I look to the youth, and my hope is that they can grow into who they want to be, supported fully by the world around them. Pride, to me, is about equality and being an advocate for others who may not have found their voice yet. That’s why I’m humbled to be part of an event like this—creating a safe space where young people can thrive.” As an accredited member of the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists (IACAT) since 2020, Jennifer brings a unique therapeutic offering to this event. Having personally benefited from art therapy during her teenage years, she understands firsthand the power of creative expression in identity exploration and emotional healing. “Art therapy was a lifeline for me when words weren’t available,” she shares. THE POWER OF ART THERAPY FOR LGBTQ+ YOUTH Art therapy provides young people with a non-verbal outlet to explore complex emotions, build self-esteem, and navigate identity challenges. Through mediums like painting, drawing, and sculpting, participants are able to process experiences in a safe, supportive environment — with no artistic skills required, only a willingness to engage creatively. Jennifer explains, “It’s not about the final product or artistic talent. It’s about the process, the connection, and the gentle support offered in a confidential and non-judgmental space.” Research and experience both show that art therapy can be profoundly healing for young people facing issues like depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, identity development, and trauma.
THE ROLE OF YOUTH WORK IN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT Joe Curtin brings additional strength to the event through his work with the Mind Your Head programme — a mental health and wellbeing initiative developed in partnership with the HSE North Cork Community Work Department. Covering critical topics like addiction, consent, body image, anger management, and online safety, the programme embodies the essence of preventative mental health support for young people. “Youth work offers a space where young people feel a sense of belonging, build trust with supportive adults, and access important resources,” Joe explains. Organisations like CDYS, Foróige, YMCA Cork, and UP Cork LGBTQ Youth Project play key roles in providing these safe, affirming environments across Cork and beyond. WHY YOUTH PRIDE MATTERS NOW MORE THAN EVER Recent findings from the 2024 “Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland” report by Trinity College Dublin and BeLonG To Youth Services highlight a stark reality
By Joe Curtin (he/him) and Jennnifer Grey (she/her)
The event will centre on the theme of mental health and emotional well-being, recognising how crucial it is to nurture and protect the mental health of young LGBTQ+ individuals. Throughout the day, young people will have access to live performances, a DJ set, art therapy workshops, and a range of information stands from Cork-based mental health organisations. There will also be a selection of specially crafted, non-alcoholic Pride-themed juices, celebrating inclusivity in a drug- and alcohol-free environment. The event is being coordinated through a partnership between Cork Pride, CDYS Youth Work Ireland’s HUT UBU Youth Project, Jennifer @ Early Earth: Eco Practices and Art therapy
(Thompson House, MacCurtain Street, Victorian Quarter, Millroom 5) and Wilde. A TEAM COMMITTED TO YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH Joe Curtin, coordinator at The Hut Youth Project, and Jennifer, a qualified art psychotherapist and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, are co-leading the initiative. “I was delighted to get the chance to work with Cork Pride on planning this Youth Pride event,” Joe says. “Myself and Jennifer have a real passion for supporting young people, especially around mental health.”
OF LGBTQI+ YOUTH AGED 14–18 REPORTED SUICIDAL THOUGHTS.
HAD SELF-HARMMED.
This summer, Cork Pride will make history by hosting its first-ever dedicated Youth Pride event — a celebration created specifically for young LGBTQ+ individuals aged 14 to 17 across the city and county. Set to take place at Wilde, the event is designed as a vibrant, supportive, and safe space where young people can connect, celebrate, and express themselves freely.
EXPERIENCED SEVERE OR EXTREMELY SEVERE DEPRESSION.
OF LGBTQI+ YOUTH AGED 14-18 EXPERIENCED SEVERE OR EXTREMELY SEVERE SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY.
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