Demi Timperley and Aimee Dillon from Cross and Passion College, along with Carragh Rafferty and Jenna Brennan from Ballycastle High School, shadowed Mayor Cllr Oliver McMullan throughout a programme of engagements across Causeway Coast and Glens, gaining first-hand insight into civic leadership and the role of local government.
The initiative aimed to inspire young women by highlighting pathways into public service and leadership, while celebrating the contribution of women and girls within the Causeway Coast communities.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan said: "This initiative was something I was very keen to introduce, and I was pleased to work with the schools to make it happen and give the pupils the opportunity to experience the civic role at first hand.
"I would like to thank Cross and Passion College and Ballycastle High School for taking part and supporting the initiative. The girls who joined us were a wonderful, well-mannered group and were a real credit to both their schools and their families.
"It was a valuable opportunity for them to see how local decisions are made and how Council works in partnership with communities, and I hope the day has inspired them to have confidence in their own leadership potential."
The day began at Cloonavin in Coleraine, where the pupils assisted the Mayor in opening a special International Women’s Day event for Council staff. They then attended the Good Relations Schools Darts Competition at Top Darts in Coleraine, meeting pupils from across the Borough and seeing the positive impact of cross-community initiatives in action.
Following this, the group visited the Limavady Shared Education Campus, including St Mary’s and Limavady High School, to learn more about collaborative education and shared learning opportunities.
In the afternoon, the pupils returned to Cloonavin for a tour of the Council Chamber and lunch with civic representatives, offering further insight into Council business and democratic processes.
The programme concluded with a visit to the newly refurbished library in Ballycastle, highlighting Council’s ongoing investment in welcoming, inclusive spaces that support learning, growth and community connection.
5. NEWS
Four pupils, Demi Timperley and Aimee Dillon from Cross and Passion College, accompanied by Mrs Anna McKay, and Carragh Rafferty and Jenna Brennan from Ballycastle High School, accompanied by Mrs Heather Dalzell, are pictured with the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Oliver McMullan, outside Cloonavin as part of the ‘Mayor for a Day’ initiative marking International Women’s Day. Photo: CCGBC