Macra members across the country now have an exciting new opportunity to gain national recognition for the skills, experiences and personal development they achieve through the organisation.

As part of a new pilot initiative, Macra training and development officers Debbie Donnelly, Steph Collins and Siobhán Coyle have completed training as Gaisce President’s Award Leaders (PALs). This means they can now support members aged 17-25 in working towards their Gaisce Award, with many of the activities already taking place through Macra counting towards the prestigious national youth award.

Gaisce – The President’s Award is Ireland’s national programme for young people, recognising commitment, resilience and personal development through challenges in community involvement, personal skills, physical recreation and adventure journeys.

ADVERTISEMENT

Many Macra members may already have completed their Bronze Gaisce Award in secondary school and can now continue their journey towards silver or gold through their involvement in Macra.

Some members may already be well on their way without even realising it.

Volunteering at club events, serving on committees, taking part in competitions, developing new skills through training courses, participating in sports and community initiatives, or attending leadership programmes can all contribute towards different elements of the award.

Recognition

Rather than adding another commitment, the pilot allows members to gain recognition for the time and effort they are already investing in their clubs and communities.

The initiative also reflects Macra’s long-standing commitment to developing confident, capable young leaders.

From public speaking and planning local events to community volunteering and agricultural competitions, Macra provides countless opportunities for members to grow personally while making a positive contribution to rural Ireland.

The newly qualified President’s Award Leaders have begun to roll out the programme with Macra clubs in their local areas, helping young people understand how their involvement can contribute towards achieving a bronze, silver or gold Gaisce award.

Personal development

The pilot has already generated plenty of interest, and it is hoped it will encourage even more young people to become involved in Macra while also providing existing members with another valuable achievement to add to their CV and personal development journey.

Whether you’re already an active Macra member or thinking about getting involved, this initiative is another example of how the organisation continues to invest in young people beyond the social side of club life.

For more information about the awards, visit gaisce.ie, or speak to your local Macra training and development officer to link in with your local Macra Gaisce PAL and get started today.