Young people highlight their priorities at Guildhall ‘Have Your Say’ event
14 October 2026
Young people from across the Council area gathered at the Guildhall on Tuesday October 13th to voice their priorities to local decision makers at the Have Your Say 2026 engagement event.
The interactive session brought together young residents, Elected Members and representatives from key statutory organisations for an evening of collaborative activities and round table discussions.
Young people from the Youth Work Alliance had the opportunity to present their Youth Work Charter to those in attendance.
Led by the North West Ministry of Youth and supported by the EA Youth Service and North West Youth Services, the event builds directly on the Council area successfully achieving official UNICEF Child Friendly City and District designation.
The initiative put into practice the Council's commitment to embedding a child rights based approach across local strategy and service delivery ensuring that children and young people are recognised as rights holders and active contributors to local democracy.
Reflecting on the successful event, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais said the event was an ideal opportunity for young people to have a direct input in the decisions that affect them.
"It was a privilege to connect with so many passionate young people at this event,” she said.
“This event provided a genuine and meaningful opportunity to hear directly from our youth about the issues affecting their daily lives and the positive changes they wish to see across our communities.
"Achieving our UNICEF Child Friendly status was a major milestone but events like this ensure our pledge is put into action.
“Our young people are the leaders of today and tomorrow and listening to their ideas will directly inform how we make decisions that impact their future."
Throughout the evening, young people engaged in open, constructive dialogue, sharing their personal aspirations while helping to shape key conversations regarding the future of the City and District in a safe, welcoming environment.
A spokesperson for the North West Ministry of Youth added:
"Young people have a right to be heard on decisions that impact their lives.
“This event created space for honest, constructive conversations that placed youth voices right where they belong at the very centre of local decision-making.
"We were proud of the leadership shown by everyone who took part and we look forward to seeing these ideas help shape the future of our area."
For more details on Derry and Strabane’s UNICEF Child Friendly Status and ongoing youth engagement initiatives visit: derrystrabane.com/community/
For further information contact: [email protected]