Reflecting on the Shine Festival Experience

Experiencing The Shine Festival: Empowering TY Students Across Ireland

It’s been two weeks since the Shine Festival, and I’m only now sitting down to reflect on what was truly a transformative experience. A few factors delayed this moment—busy work schedules, life responsibilities—but more than that, I wanted to allow the experience to fully sink in. I needed time to reflect not just on the event itself but on my own role within the Shone Project SAMBO mentoring program, and how this fits into the larger picture of empowering the next generation. Sometimes, it’s important to let experiences simmer before you can truly appreciate their impact.

Attending The Shine Festival in Waterford, hosted by The Shona Project, was nothing short of inspiring. It brought together a diverse group of speakers, mentors, and students from across Ireland to share wisdom, love, kindness, and practical advice, creating a palpable atmosphere charged with energy and enthusiasm. Walking into the venue, it was immediately clear that this wasn’t just another event; it was a festival designed to empower young women in Transition Year (TY), a space where they were encouraged to explore their potential, celebrate their uniqueness, and be unapologetically themselves.

The organisers of The Shona Project did an incredible job fostering an environment where everyone—from the speakers to the students—felt seen and valued. The festival created a sense of unity, a shared mission to uplift one another and make a real impact. The exhibitors showcased everything from environmental initiatives to tips on personal health, relationships, and mental well-being, which truly rounded out the experience for the students.

Stories of Resilience and Empowerment

The speakers at The Shine Festival delivered powerful messages of resilience, leadership, mental health, and the importance of finding your voice. I found myself captivated not just by their stories of success but by the honesty with which they shared their struggles. The raw, unfiltered emotions brought to the stage created a deep connection with the students, who were encouraged to participate, ask questions, and share their own reflections.

One of the most memorable moments was hearing Yemi Adenuga—Councillor, Gogglebox star, and all-around powerhouse—engage with the students. Her call for the young women to ‘Make lemonade from the lemons life gives you’ was met with a resounding chorus of over 1,250 voices cheering in agreement. The energy in the room was electric, and as the day went on, it became increasingly clear that the event was more than just a one-off experience for these students. It was a touchstone for their growth, providing them with the confidence and tools to tackle challenges head-on.

Creating a Safe Space for Growth

What stood out to me most throughout the day was the emphasis on kindness and support. The speakers made it clear that success doesn’t come without struggles, but with the right support network and self-belief, anything is possible. Every session felt like a safe space—no question was too small, no story too personal to be shared. These moments of vulnerability weren’t just inspiring; they reinforced the importance of empathy and understanding in leadership and personal growth.

The Power of Community and Collective Growth

As the festival came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significance of events like these, especially in shaping the future for young women. The Shine Festival wasn’t just about providing resources or lectures; it was about building a supportive community. It was a reminder that we all have the potential to inspire and empower others, especially the next generation.

I left The Shine Festival feeling incredibly grateful—not just for the experience itself, but for the opportunity to be part of something bigger through my work with The Shona Project SAMBO mentoring program. Moving forward, I hope to bring the same level of authenticity, kindness, and support to our monthly mentoring sessions, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and resilience.