January 2025 Newsletter
What have the Step Up For Change participants been up to?
IFI Step Up For Change participants have kicked off the year with a burst of productivity and dedication! Since the start of the month, they’ve been actively honing their skills in several key areas of personal and professional growth:
📄 CV Writing – Crafting a standout CV is a crucial step toward future employment. It’s not just about listing skills—it’s about showcasing strengths, achievements, and personal development. A well-written CV is a powerful tool for gaining confidence and standing out to potential employers.
🚗 Driving Theory Practice – Mastering driving theory is essential for building road safety awareness and gaining the confidence to drive responsibly. It’s a vital life skill that opens doors to independence and new opportunities, whether for work, education, or personal freedom.
🗣️ Debating & Critical Thinking – Engaging in debate isn’t just about arguing—it’s about developing the ability to listen, think critically, and express ideas clearly. These skills are invaluable for building confidence, improving communication, and understanding diverse perspectives in both personal and professional settings.
In addition to these essential skills, participants have also started two OCNs: Personal Development and Drugs Misuse & Awareness in Young People. They’re also set to begin their Essential Skills in Numeracy and Literacy next week, ensuring a well-rounded approach to personal growth.
The Step Up For Change programme is all about equipping participants with the tools and knowledge to take charge of their futures.
OCN Qualification Success!
In January at Phoenix, young people have successfully completed three OCN qualifications: Drugs Awareness, Vocational Skills, and Mental Health Awareness in Young People. These groups have done an exceptional job, not only completing their assessment booklets but also engaging in insightful, thought-provoking discussions on important topics such as drugs, consent, mental health, and personal development.
We want to extend a huge congratulations to everyone who achieved an OCN qualification with us this month! Your dedication, hard work, and willingness to engage in these crucial conversations are truly inspiring. Keep thriving and pushing forward—this is just the beginning!
Westminster Policy Forum
On January 15th, 2025, Director Emma Shaw delivered an impactful presentation at the Westminster Policy Forum, addressing one of the most pressing issues in education today and the whole reason Phoenix exists: tackling educational disadvantage and improving outcomes for people in underprivileged areas.
In her presentation, Emma focused specifically on the challenges faced by East Belfast, highlighting the urgent need for targeted intervention in areas where educational inequality continues to hinder the potential of young people and adults. She stressed that the existing systems, while important, need a more grassroots-focused approach—one that actively listens to and involves local communities in the decision-making process.
Emma outlined the importance of strategic, innovative thinking in addressing educational disadvantage. She advocated for a shift in policy that embraces forward-thinking solutions, such as creating pathways for students that move beyond traditional educational models.
At the heart of her presentation was a call for collaboration. Emma firmly believes that tackling educational inequality requires a unified effort from local communities, educators, policymakers, and organisations. By working together, these groups can build a more inclusive and supportive educational environment that helps all students reach their full potential, regardless of background.
Her compelling call to action at the forum stated a clear message: change is needed, and it can only come through collective effort, bold ideas, and a deep commitment to the communities most affected by educational disadvantage.
Emma’s leadership and advocacy continue to inspire change, particularly in areas like East Belfast, where educational disparities are a significant barrier to success.
Red Box Top-Up
A big thank you to EBCDA and Willowfield Church for generously topping up our Red Box this month! We’ve proudly been part of the Red Box Project for some time now, as it’s vital to us that every young girl and woman has access to free period products when needed.
This Red Box isn’t just for our members—it’s available to everyone who may need feminine hygiene products. If you’re ever in need, feel free to stop by Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 4:30 PM. A member of our staff will be happy to direct you to the box.
Together, we can ensure that no one has to go without the essential items they deserve.
U.S Consul James Applegate Visits Walkway
Continuing Work With Bonfire Groups
Our work with the Cregagh and Clonduff Bonfire groups continues to thrive every week as we support their ongoing journey of personal development and academic achievement. These groups have been dedicated to progressing through their OCN qualifications, consistently pushing themselves to grow and learn, and it’s inspiring to see just how far they’ve come since the start of their journey.
The commitment and resilience shown by the members of both groups have been truly remarkable. They’ve worked hard to develop not only their personal skills but also their sense of confidence and empowerment, making significant strides towards their goals. Every week brings new achievements, and it’s clear that the impact of this work is truly transformative.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue the momentum by planning residential learning trips for this year. These trips will serve as an opportunity for the groups to celebrate the progress they’ve made, reflect on how far they’ve come, and build on the strong foundations they’ve laid. It will also be a chance to bond, take a break from the usual routine, and recharge (potentially as they’ll be busy for two days!)
Through hard work and dedication, we’re witnessing the powerful impact of these groups, and we’re proud to be part of their growth and achievements. This journey is about more than just qualifications—it’s about building confidence, strengthening community, and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.
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