The Transition Year students from St. Mary’s College had the unique opportunity to attend the world-renowned Web Summit in Dublin recently. Schools from across Ireland competed for tickets, and St. Mary’s was delighted to secure their quota.
“We were thrilled to be chosen to attend”, said TY Coordinator and Year Head, Mr. Tommy Flynn, who also attended along with ICT Coordinator, Mr. John Englishby. “The College has an excellent Business and Enterprise tradition, and an outstanding ICT background. This was the ideal opportunity for the students. The Web Summit is known throughout the world as a leading Technology event.”
The students enjoyed an evening of incredible talks, with the chance to learn from Technology’s most brilliant minds. They were treated to inspirational presentations from Riley Ennis and Scott Harrison, both of whom explained their rise in the ever-changing and expanding Technological World.
Riley took to the stage to share his journey from a young boy, who was found science quite difficult at school, to an entrepreneur, whose start-up company helps to fight cancer. Riley shared key tips for a successful start-up – Passion. Problem. Prototype.
Scott’s presentation showed how his previous wild lifestyle left him feeling empty. This led him to set up charity: water. He had one mission: to end the water crisis in developing countries. He implored the audience to get involved by donating their birthday gift to the cause, highlighting all those who have supported him so far, including the Hollywood actor Will Smith.
The students were also introduced to a group of Irish primary school pupils and their mentors, who developed an educational app ‘BullyBug’, aimed at combatting bullying in schools.
The evening finished with two post primary students displaying their entrepreneurial skills by pitching their business ideas to the 1000’s of students present – off the cuff!
The TY students left the Web Summit feeling elated and inspired. Who knows – they could easily be the Technology Entrepreneurs of the future, appearing on that Web Summit stage!