2026/27 Candidate List
Uachtarán (President)
Frank Oandasan
Harrison Rossiter McGuire
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Leas-Uachtarán (Deputy President)
Aoibhínn Doyle
Jason Tamayo
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Leasa (Welfare Officer)
Abby Lawless
Eve Tyrrell
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta (Sustainability Officer)
Thomas Harpur
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer)
Brendan Locke
Niamh McGrath
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach (Regional Liaison & Support Officer)
Nathan Wei Cassidy
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Chomhionannais (Equality Officer)
Valeriia Stepanenko
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Cumarsáide (Communications Officer)
Alannah Moriarty
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach na Gaeilge
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach an Mhíchumais (Disability Officer)
Conor Clifford
Ellie Cogan Lavelle
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Rúnaí (Secretary)
Ava De Siún
Holly Cassidy
Isabelle Reen O’Mahoney
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Oideachais (Education Officer)
Alfie O’Reilly
Farhan Tijani
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC)
David Morrissey
Louisa Tyrrell
Rónán Ó hÍcí
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Uachtarán Candidates
Frank Oandasan (He / Him)
Opening Statement
Dia Dhaoibh a Chairde! Is mise Frank Oandasan, and I am one of your candidates for Uachtarán I am a 17-Year-Old 6th Year student from Tullamore, Co. Offaly!! To get to know me a bit more, I love getting to know new people and making as many friends as I can and it is something I strive for. Along with this working with other people and creating something new and exciting while also making a difference is something I adore. With this I have gained countless skills through my time within various organisations representing youth/student voice.
Over this time, I have learned how essential it is to listen and work as a team, listening to others and making sure every voice is being heard and I believe these are some of the qualities I have. I believe with my determination, positive vibes and my true reasoning and intention for running for Uachtarán, which lies with my hope of making even the smallest difference for other students on issues that I have gone through and/or have seen and making sure the students of not only today but of tomorrow won’t have to go through the same. With this role, I want to become the echo of what students are facing in our modern world. Thank you!!
Past Experience
My journey up until now has given me the experience and skills that have prepared me for the role of Uachtarán. This began with my involvement during TY as secretary of my Student Council, where I began representing students. Later becoming Chairperson for two years, leading campaigns, events, and fundraisers, and developing my leadership skills.
With this I joined Offaly Comhairle na nÓg, where I worked on topics like mental health, including working with the HSE to create a Mental Health awareness campaign along with various fundraisers. This gave me opportunities to work as part of a team and represent young people at events like the Comhairle Showcase and Seanad na nÓg, where I spoke about issues important to youth in Ireland.
Currently, I am the Oifigeach Leasa or Welfare Officer of ISSU, where I have worked on issues such as period poverty and the mental health of POC’S (People of Colour) within Ireland. I have also worked with organisations like Jigsaw and engaged with the Department of Education on issues like Senior Cycle Reform and Reasonable Accommodations at Certificate Examinations. Experiences such as these have helped me gained the skills to work with and collaborate with external organisations along with being knowledgeable with meeting with the Department of Education.
In my journey through student voice, I have gained countless skills of leading and meeting various stakeholders ensuring the voice of students and the young people of Ireland are being heard. Through these experiences, I have developed strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. At the end of the day, I hope to use my knowledge and experience to grow and strengthen our union to ensure that students are put at forefront of change and doing so as your next Uachtarán.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
As Uachtarán, I firstly want to work with the Coiste Gnó such as the OTCR/RLSO and our Communications Officer and ensure our work with our grassroot schools are still being felt along with listening to the students to ensure our work as Coiste Gnó stay relevant to their needs. To do this I’d like to work in collaboration with the Coiste Gnó to create surveys for our members schools and ensure that the work we do reflect with the wants and needs of the students.
Secondly, I’d like to push for and work on Senior Cycle Reform with the Department of Education on matters such as more transparency, training and information to teachers and students for the reformed subjects and their projects such as the biology project. With this I'd like to work with the Communications Officer and Education Officer to ensure we represent our position on the changes clearly. To do this I’d ensure the input of the students that they are affecting are being heard within the reformation of the subjects. In addition, I’d like to push for the Oral Examinations to be moved out of Easter as it creates unnecessary pressure on students' along with schools as well.
Lastly, I would like to work on ensuring our presence and accessibility to the everyday student within our grass root schools are aware of the work we are trying to do for them and create a stronger bond nationally down to the most important the local students going through education.
Overall, my goal as Uachtarán is to ensure the Coiste Gnó are supported and that as Uachtarán that I echo the voices of the students and ensure they are never left behind. This is why I believe I am the right choice to be your next Uachtarán.
@frank4uach
Harrison Rossiter McGuire (He / Him)
Opening Statement
Hey everyone, my name is Harrison. I’m 18, from Wexford and running to be your next Uáchtaran. I’ve had a passion for student and youth engagement for a long time now. I’m a strong believer in personal development and growth. I’ve had a long journey through this union and I believe Uáchtaran is the next step for me, so I can better aid the student body of Ireland. I have got so much from this union and can only hope to be able to repay that debt. I have many passions in life, these include theater, rural activism and student engagement. The main driving force between all of these is how I can help people.
This is one of the things that leads me to theater. When you’re on stage you can give people a distraction. Whether I’m playing Rev. Shaw Moore in Footloose or Herman the Umpa Lumpa Whatever problems you have outside can be left there even if just for a few hours. This same philosophy applies to my activism. Now unlike in theater, in activism you can’t control the narrative but regardless you have to persevere, not for yourself but for whoever you represent and in my case that’s usually students.
Past Experience
I have been public speaking for over thirteen years, most recently passing my Gold level LAMDA exam. I have been involved in student activism for a long time. This started with the student council all the way back in primary school. This has now turned to Coiste na Teachaíochta, Student Council, Green-Schools, Global Schools and Library Leadership. I have been chairman on many of these committees, both on a full-time and part-time basis. As chairman of Coiste na Teachaíochta, I ran the “SPC Olympics”; a two week long student vs teacher fundraiser for Pieta House, consisting of 11 events over two weeks. I have completed the Develop ME teamwork training, advanced media training, and I’m a certified first aider. I currently sit on the Museum of Childhood Ireland Youth Facilitation Team.
I have served as Oifigeach Réigiúnach for Wexford, and I’m currently the Regional Liaison and Support Officer. This has given me invaluable insight into the workings of not only the ROB but also the ISSU as a whole. Regional Projects span a large variety of topics, from mental health to driver education, AI, and beyond. I have helped Regional Officers across the country with their work, so not only do I have an in-depth knowledge of each project area, both in terms of real world experiences and union policy, but also an awareness of the issues faced by all 16 ISSU regions.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
This is just a brief overview that I will further in my campaign. Other organisations include: The Dept of Education and Youth, Institute of Guidance Councilors and the school patron bodies.
Cohesiveness
As a union it is vital that everyone work together to efficiently represent students on a national and regional level. This requires all ISSU bodies to all work together fluidly. The Coiste Gnó to curate National Campaigns, the ROB to feed into this work with knowledge gained by talking to students and the MAC to oversee all activities and offer support to officers. For this system to work all bodies need to be comfortable working together. I would achieve this with regular online calls which would have a primary focus on team building exercises.
Connection
The ISSU should represent all second-level students, this isn't happening. We face the serious issue of decreased engagement from Gaelcolaistí. I would strive to ensure the Gaeilge remains a core part of the ISSU’s work. For students who are home-schooled or attend special schools there is no option to get involved. If I were Uachtarán I would make it a priority to create pathways for these students to access our union so we can truly represent all students.
@harrison4uachtaran
Leas-Uachtarán Candidates
Aoibhínn Doyle (She / Her)
Opening Statement
Haigh, gach duine is mise Aoibhínn Ní Dhubhghaill agus táim ag seasamh chun a bheith mar an chéad Leas Uachtarán eile ar an gCoiste Gnó. My name is Aoibhínn Doyle and I am running to be the next Leas Uachtarán of the ISSU. I am currently a 6th year student in Ramsgrange Community School Co.Wexford with a strong passion for all things activism and advocacy. I am very proud to have been appointed as Head Girl for the 25/26 academic year in my school and I have had such wonderful opportunities to work with both staff and students as a result.
I first became involved with the ISSU when I attended my first Regional Conference in first year which was held online due to Covid-19. I have thankfully gotten the opportunity to become more involved in person since then and have been elected to both the Regional Officer Body and the Coiste Gnó within the last 2 years. Outside of the realm of student advocacy, I enjoy playing the banjo as well as listening to music of many genres, reading and spending time with my family and friends. I’m really looking forward to getting to know you all throughout my campaign and I hope that you consider giving me your number 1 vote!
Past Experience
Looking back these past couple of years I have been involved in so many different aspects of student and youth advocacy, all of which I feel could be highly beneficial experiences for the next Leas Uachtarán to have. Internally, within the ISSU I have been a member of both the Regional Officer Body (ROB) and the Coiste Gnó which has allowed me to gain a diverse perspective of the union’s work both from a grassroots and national perspective.
My role as Rúnaí on the Coiste Gnó this term has also allowed me to work very closely with the Leas Uachtarán both as a member of the Administrative Team and with organising certain aspects of ISSU events, which has made me gain a deeper sense of knowledge of the vital work they do.
Outside of the ISSU I have undertaken work experience in the Houses of Oireachtas, where I learned a great deal about the internal workings of the Irish government. I have also travelled and spoken at the European Parliament in Strasbourg as a winner of the Rotary Youth Leadership Competition in 2025. Last year, I was selected to be an ambassador for the Irish Schools Sustainability Network (ISSN) where I learned about various aspects of sustainability as well meeting some amazing young activists along the way.
Currently, I am a member of the National Action Panel (NAP) for Spunout, an independent charity working to empower young people to create personal and social change. As part of my role, I have worked on areas such as youth participation in voting and mental health. I feel that all of these experiences have really helped to shape the person that I am today while giving me the opportunity to interact with so many people from a range of backgrounds, both nationally and internationally.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If I was elected to the Coiste Gnó my main goal would be to make sure that every second level student feels seen and heard within the ISSU, which will help the union to grow both as an organisation and as a stakeholder, meaning that your voice can have its maximum impact. I plan to do this by improving and building connections from our grassroots up, working with the RLSO/OTCR to enhance engagement with Regional Officers and School Reps, as they act as the voice of the union within their schools and wider communities.
I would endeavour to make sure that all voices are heard and that students from all backgrounds, especially Gaelcholáistí, migrant/refugee students, disabled students and students from other marginalised groups have a seat at the table, while working with the relevant Coiste Gnó officers to make this possible.
I would like to provide up to date resources for all ISSU member schools and to produce content based on what supports schools need, meeting them where they are, to help them get to where they want to be. I wish to empower students not only to be members of the union but to engage with the ISSU by ensuring that our internal structures and communications encourage open dialogue between the union and anyone who may be in need of assistance or support, whether that is students, teachers or other organisations.
To make this possible I would do a review of all of the internal structures and make any relevant changes to make sure that all processes are as effective as possible. As well as this, it is of utmost importance that every member of the Coiste Gnó feels supported in their respective roles and I would ensure that all officers receive any assistance and guidance they may need.
@aoibhinn4leas
Jason Tamayo (He / Him)
Opening Statement
Dia daoibh gach duine, a chairde,
My name is Jason Tamayo and I am a 17-year-old 6th year student at Woodbrook College in Bray, County Wicklow. I’m proud to be from Bray and equally proud of my roots in Ilocos Sur in the north of the Philippines. I use he/him pronouns.
I am passionate about student voice and making a meaningful difference for students across our union. I have previously had the honour of serving on Coiste Gnó as a Regional Liaison and Support Officer (RLSO) and as a MAC Officer, and I’m very grateful for the students who placed their trust in me during those positions.
I’m someone who enjoys engaging with students and representing their perspectives. I believe my strong communication, organisation, and event coordination skills allow me to work calmly and effectively with others while delivering meaningful results.
Outside of student activism, I enjoy playing badminton, piano, going for walks with my friends, and singing with my family and relatives back home in the Philippines. I am delighted to put myself forward to run for Leas Uachtarán. I’m ready to step outside my comfort zone, work hard, and continue representing, uplifting, and defending student voices across the country.
Go raibh mile maith agaibh.
Past Experience
I have been actively involved in student leadership and advocacy throughout my time in school, with a strong focus on representing and strengthening student voices at both local and national level.
Within the ISSU, I currently serve as a MAC (2025/26) and previous served as the Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach (Regional Liaison and Support Officer) (2024/25). I also have been the Kildare-Wicklow Regional Officer (2023 & 2024). Through these roles, I have supported student councils, engaged with students across the region, and worked to ensure their voices were represented within the union. I have contributed as a member of the ISSU Equality Team (2023) and the Vote@16 & Civic Education W.G (2023), and participated in consultations to help shape the organisation’s work.
Outside the ISSU, I have represented young people nationally as a delegate to the National Youth Assembly of Ireland and as a previous member of the Worldwise Global Schools Student Advisory Group. In my school community, I have served as the Student Council Communications Officer and Equality Officer, as well as a Student Mentor. Currently, I am the School Student Retention Ambassador and the School of Sanctuary Senior Leader, where I work to promote inclusion, belonging, and support for students.
Alongside these roles, I have been involved in leadership and extracurricular activities such as my school’s Senior Debate Team, Model United Nations, and the Amber Flag Committee. Through these experiences, I have developed strong communication, organisation, and teamwork skills. I understand the importance of listening to students, engaging with different perspectives, and working collaboratively to create meaningful change. I believe these experiences have prepared me well to contribute effectively to the role of Leas Uachtarán.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If elected to Coiste Gnó as Leas-Uachtarán, I want to focus on strengthening student voices by improving engagement, support, and accountability across the union.
Firstly, I want to build stronger links between the ISSU and students on the ground. From my experience as a Regional Liaison and Support Officer, I have seen how important it is for the union to remain connected with students and their councils. I will work closely with the Regional Officer Body and the Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach to support campaigns that increase membership and ensure the work of the ISSU feels accessible and relevant to students across the country.
Another key priority for me is improving officer support and development. I want to help ensure that officers feel confident in their roles by encouraging strong communication, collaboration, and training opportunities. I will support the Uachtarán in the day-to-day work of the union and work to build a positive and connected Coiste Gnó, as strong teamwork leads to stronger outcomes for students.
Student council training is also essential. I will work with the ISSU Secretariat and the Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach to review training needs and ensure that all member schools receive student council training at least once each year so that councils are well prepared and supported.
Finally, I want to strengthen accountability and transparency within the union. I will support clearer communication between Coiste Gnó and the membership, and work to improve how mandates from CB are tracked and delivered. By doing this, I hope to help build a more organised, active, and representative union that delivers real results for second-level students.
@jason4lu
Oifigeach Leasa (Welfare Officer) Candidates
Abby Lawless (She / Her)
Opening Statement
My name is Abby Lawless, a 6th year student from Kildare. I am somebody who has spent much of her senior year in secondary school trying to make a change in the world of youth activism. I'm a very passionate person when it comes to fighting for the rights of young people in Ireland and have become a member of many groups in the recent years from Comhairle na nÓg to the National Youth Assembly of Ireland.
Outside of the youth activism scene, I am a dedicated and natural leader as I have been president of my school's student council (for 2 years now) and my friends basically call me a jack of all trades for all my hobbies! I'm really big into fashion, jewellery, music, and baking.
If you ask about my personality, I've been described as having the personality of a monkey: optimistic, funny, creative and ambitious. If I have a project in mind I will dedicate everything to ensure it's completed.
In a nutshell, I'm the type of person you'd find doing something different every day of the week. But to be completely honest I wouldn't have it any other way! My mission is to be the voice for the youth of Ireland until I basically can't anymore.
Past Experience
I've been involved in many events and groups since 2023 that I believe would contribute to the role I am running for. I started my journey in Comhairle na nÓg where I was the secretary for 2 years. In my time there I have learnt valuable leadership skills and how to work in a team with people I barely knew. I then moved on to join organisations such as The National Youth Assembly of Ireland and the InSync junior board, groups where I had a position to speak to higher management and government about the important issues at hand. Ive also learnt how to adapt to situations that don't go to plan.
As of right now, my two most recent experiences were becoming a regional officer for Kildare and attending DYDM 2026. These two key moments of my experience have taught me the art of collaboration and debating and I will forever be grateful for these.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If elected to the Coiste Gnó, I would plan to achieve the awareness to the government of current issues that affect our students greatly (eg: mental health problems and period poverty). I would achieve these by lobbying politicians, creating resources and campaigns and talking to media about the issues.
Eve Tyrrell (She / Her)
Opening Statement
Dia daoibh a chairde, my name is Eve Tyrrell and I am a fifth year student from Wicklow and I am really passionate about all things student activism, youth welfare and mental health. I have been really involved with my school’s student council and wellbeing committee over the past few years, and I have also really loved getting involved with ISSU through attending conferences earlier this year.
My main motivation for running for welfare officer/oifigeach leasa is because I really want all students to have better access to mental health resources and I want to create awareness and moreconversation surrounding student’s wellbeing. I am really passionate about mental health because it is something that has very much impacted me throughout my time in secondary school. I am very grateful for the mental health supports I have had available to me, and hope to work to ensure all students have better access to supports. However I also acknowledge the areas where our systems are falling short andand there is a long way we need to go and I believe increased funding and focus from the government on young people’s welfare is very necessary. I am really interested in all things political and I am a passionate feminist.
I am really interested in the Irish language and I am always trying to improve my gaeilge. I am also very interested in current affairs and I run my school’s Model United Nations club where I love getting to discuss all sorts of current global issues. When I’m not spending my time being a politics nerd, I’m also very interested music and the arts and I love writing, singing, acting and ballet. Táim ag tnúth go mór le bualadh libh.
Past Experience
Throughout secondary school I have been very involved with my student council and school wellbeing committee, where I have worked to raise awareness for welfare issues and create better supports for students. This year, for our school's wellbeing week I conducted a survey on mental health with the aim of identifying key areas our students struggle with and I have organised events focused on sharing student experiences of mental health. Right now I am developing a peer taught SPHE programme to facilitate fifth and sixth year students teaching younger students about wellbeing and inclusivity.
I am also involved in running my school’s student council and I have been working to create new committees and yearly plans, and increase student involvement through a new election system. I have also loved getting to know so many new people through ISSU this year.
I attended Debate Your Decision-Makers this February, throughout the day I focused on developing solutions for improving mental health in schools, ending food insecurity and providing opportunities to students facing poverty. I had the privilege of presenting these suggestions to senators and got to discuss my ideas and concerns about student welfare further with them. I also attended ISSU’sWomen’s Conference this March where I met so many more incredible women in ISSU.
My other involvements include being my school’s student representative in the Jigsaw One Good School programme and completingdigital workshops with jigsaw on improving mental health in schools. I am involved in NCCA consultations on the Senior Cycle Pathways Project and have been involved in discussions on redesigning the senior cycle curriculum to be more inclusive for all students. I have run my school’s Model UN club for the past few years and have chaired debates at conferences. I have also taken part in European Youth Parliament.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If elected, there are a number of actions I would take to improve student’s welfare. While I can not explain them all here, I hope to outline some main goals. One project I would love to implement is a youth welfare consultation survey. This would allow students to give their own voice and opinions on the issues that affect them most. I think this would be an incredibly valuable resource to determine key welfare issues young people are facing, as well as to identify possible areas to develop solutions and supports. A major welfare issue we are currently facing is the youth mental health crisis. I believe all schools should have supportive mental health and accommodation policies including exit passes and quiet spaces for students struggling with mental health conditions to access, training for teachers on how to adequately support struggling students, and dedicated emotional councillors or therapists in schools. I would continuously advocate for the implementation of such supports in schools and I would create student council resources to help students implement them in their schools. Increased government funding is necessary to make adequate supports possible and I would advocate for increased funding for welfare supports for young people.I would support and environment of inclusivity and kindness within ISSU, check in on members and ensure ISSU events are positive and welcoming for all. I would work with the equality and disability officers to create supports for the unique welfare needs of students such as those with neurodivergences, learning differences or disabilities. The goals I have outlined all address complex issues, which require dedicated action, so I have already been proactive in working to address them by submitting several directive mandates and policies to this year’s CB.
@abby4welfare
@eve4welfare
Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta (Sustainability Officer) Candidates
Thomas Harpur (He/Him)
Opening Statement
Hi, I'm Thomas and I'm running for Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta or Sustainability Officer, to represent young people, the generation of tomorrow, that has the most to lose from our failures today. I'm a 15 year old youth activist from Waterford City. I have interests in politics, music and photography. I'm also quite a bookworm, and, having finished George Orwell's 1984 I can safely say it's my favourite book.
In terms of TV, I like comedies like Derry Girls, but I really love mysteries such as the Residence and Wake Up Dead Man. For sport, I love rowing, going on runs and playing a little tennis. I'm a hard worker and I'm prepared to put in the effort for this role. I hope to bring my lived experience to this office as someone who is slightly younger than the typical age of an officer but just as experienced, to add a newer diverse voice to Coiste Gnó.
So remember, Vote for Harpur!
Past Experience
I got my start in youth activism when I joined Comhairle na nÓg in 2024. I was elected to serve as a student councillor and was subsequently elected as ISSU representative in my school twice consecutively. Within my school, I brought sustainability to the forefront by helping to organise the walk to school events and installation of cycling facilities.
I am currently halfway through my term as a sitting delegate on the National Youth Assembly of Ireland, where I have served on the Youth Advisory Groups for Climate and Transport. I have recently attended the NYCI’s youth consultation on the Sustainable Development Goals.
Over the course of my time in these organisations, I have accumulated much experience and knowledge on this key topic. In short I have the enthusiasm, experience and determination required to serve the students of Ireland as their Sustainabilty Officer.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
I hope to achieve a number of goals if elected as sustainability officer to better life for Irish students and create a liveable future. Hunger is now essentially a non-issue for most of the country but the education system remains a haven of hunger. Almost half of Irish students go to school without breakfast, which is a shocking statistic for a so-called developed nation. I will partner with producers and grocery stores, and possibly government, to expand free breakfast club programs for as many schools as possible.
I will also work to increase nutrition standards for school meals and expand the free lunches program. Another huge issue in schools across Ireland is the domination of the car in transport to and from school. This is due to the inconvenience and unsafety of alternatives such as public transit and cycling. I will create dialogue between transit providers and schools to integrate timetables with schooltimes.
I’ll work with student councils to create sustainable transport drives up bike and bus ridership. I’ll provide resources for schools to upgrade cycling facilities and lobby government to provide financial supports for both schools and students who wish to use sustainable transport.
As young people we face a chronic lack of a voice in issues that do or will affect us. I hope to increase youth voice by empowering student councils to assess the sustainability of their schools and rectify shortcomings. These are the main points of my manifesto but there is much more which you can find over at instagram.
And once again - Vote for Harpur!
@harpur4inbhuanaitheachta
Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer) Candidates
Brendan Locke (He/Him)
Opening Statement
Hi my name is Brendan, in November 2025 I ran for election as Kerry regional officer and I was elected! But I feel like my talents are better suited with the Coiste Gno, I am from Kerry and I really like comic books and lasagna!
Past Experience
I am a youth activist and a student journalist,
Basically Ive been apart of Comhairle na nÓg for over a year in which I've been involved in bi county media campaigns I've spoken to members of European parliament, I am currently in the process of lobbying with councilliors in the Tralee municipal district to get lights in our town park, I also have a radio show on Radio Kerry, The Youth Voices series season 2 has just started airing. Where we basically get the youths perspective on many different issues that plague our society today. As mentioned I'm also the Kerry regional officer for the ISSU.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
Communication has always been a big thing for me, I noticed at my first ROB meeting that the ISSU lacked that in some aspects, I believe with my background in public speaking and journalism i would be perfect as an international officer or a Welfare officer as both require a person that has the ability to speak extremely well.
@Brendan.locke26
Niamh McGrath (She/Her)
Opening Statement
Haigh a chairde, my name is Niamh McGrath, and I am delighted to be running to be your next Oifigeach idirnáisiúnta/International Officer. I am a seventeen year old student from Fermoy, Co. Cork. I am a passionate youth activist, advocating for climate action, youth inclusion in educational policy, student rights and youth participation at a European level. I first got involved in youth participation and in the promotion of the student voice when I was elected to my student council in second year. Since then, I have been involved with numerous different youth organisations such as Cork County Comhairle Na nOg, the YMCA, ECO-UNESCO, Spunout, NYCI, YSI and Amnesty International.
Although I spend a lot of my time pursuing youth advocacy, I like sailing, especially team racing. I love to read, my favourite books of late are Normal People and Malibu Rising. I have a Labernese puppy named Teddy (fun fact I got him the day I became Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta) and I love to take him for walks around the meadow behind my house. I love spending time with my friends and family. I'm a big music fan, I used to play the clarinet and the ukulele. My favourite artists are Olivia Dean and Gracie Abrams. At the end of the day past all my work with youth advocacy I’m still the 17 year old 5th year student down in Fermoy.
Past Experience
In my opinion, one of the best experiences I have had is my role as Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta/Sustainability Officer. Through this role I ran the largest national sustainability consultation for second-level students and multiple trainings related to facilitating and the SDGs. I represent the voices of students on the Department of Education's advisory board for Education for Sustainable Development. I also regularly interact with ISSU policy.
I have a multitude of experiences that will help me in this role, from cross-border digital media projects with young people in the north to a digital exchange with young people based in Italy to representing Ireland's young people at the European Youth Event (EYE) in Strasbourg. For the last year, I have been a member of the NYCI's EU Youth Dialogue core group. In this role, I have attended many consultations aimed at including the voices of young people in Ireland's upcoming EU presidency. I have also helped facilitate consultations at our events. Then in June, I got the opportunity of a lifetime to attend EYE in Strasbourg, where I was involved in facilitating a workshop on youth representation in decision-making settings.
I am a member of the youth advisory group within Amnesty International. As part of our project on children's rights to protest, I ran consultations with young people on their experiences with protesting in Ireland. We then created a report on children’s rights to protest and educational resources aimed at supporting children when protesting. I am an avid debater, and I have partaken in many Model United Nations conferences, winning multiple awards. I was my school’s first secretary general when we ran our junior conference and a member of the chief staff when we ran our senior conference. I also co-led the organisation of my school's global culture day last month.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
I would firstly like to expand and strengthen ISSU's relations with other European student unions, most notably SSUNI (Secondary Students Union Northern Ireland). One of the ways I would like to do this is by including members of SSUNI's executive on ISSU's working groups and vice versa. I will engage in dialogue with other European student unions to strengthen our working relations.
I will work to ensure that the voices of our students are represented at OBESSU’s (the Organising Bureau of European School Student Unions) events. I will also work to ensure that students' views are included in Ireland's upcoming EU presidency. This work will include ensuring students know how to be involved in existing consultations and making submissions to the Department of Education and Youth on behalf of students. As OI, I will co-run ISSU's Vote @16 campaign with the Rúnaí. Together we will run the civic education working group.
I want to design and deliver a workshop aimed at promoting youth representation and participation in policy at ISSU events such as regional councils and Skill Academy. I will advocate for reform of civic education in schools. I will help support student engagement with civic education through an information campaign.
In line with mandates passed at the previous CB, I will run a voter registration campaign to increase the number of students in the electorate. I would also like to lobby decision makers ahead of the Dáil debate later this year on lowering the voting age to 16. I will be a voice for students at an international level and continuously work to ensure that students in Ireland aren't excluded from conversations surrounding education at a European level.
I will work to ensure students who move to Ireland feel supported when navigating the Irish school system by promoting the Guide to the Irish School System resource that was created by past OIs.
@niamh4international
Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach (Regional Liaison & Support Officer) Candidates
Nathanael Wei Cassidy (He/Him Sé/É)
Opening Statement
Haigh a chairde! Is mise Nathanael agus tá mé cúig bliana déag d'aois. Is as Baile Átha Cliath mé ach cónaím i Loch Garman. My mother is originally from China and dad is a proud Dublin man. I'm a bit of both.
I live and go to school in wexford but every Saturday I spend the day in Dublin for one of my many hobbies. I study music in Dublin and I absolutely love it. I play the piano, violin, the drums and a bit of orchestral percussion Music has shaped the person that I am and it has given me countless amazing opportunities and insights.
As well as music I love the outdoors. There's a group of us in wexford and we go sailing. We sail all year round in all kinds of conditions. Sun, rain and ice, you name it! We love to go on trips and there's nearly no greater pleasure then sitting on an obscure island with only a small boat, a frying pan and supervalue sausages. (Sorry to any vegetarians or vegans out there!)
I love to read, write and draw. I used to be absolutely shocking at drawing but my brilliant art teacher turned that around and I've never looked back since.
Above all this I love helping people. Helping others bring a glow to my day that just cannot be beaten. This attitude has been the foundation of my work in the ISSU thus far and I plan to maintain this all the way through and hopefully later onto other things also.
Past Experience
I have been quite busy in the last few months. It sll started with my election to student council in September of last year.
I began to get involved straight away. I was nominated as sustainability officer and worked extensively with the green schools. I was elected to the green schools committee months ago as public relations officer. We are currently applying for our green flag having done lots of work throughout the year.
I have attended some ISSU events. These include DYDM and the Peer education event. I am now involved with peer education and organising for a workshop to take place in my school.
As well as student voice I have gotten involved with musician's voice. I attended the first national youth gathering of the Irish Association of Youth Orchestra (IAYO) . This was an event where we were discussing accessibility snd equality in the classical music community for young people.
Recently, with the support of the current RSLO, I have proposed some reforms for our student council in school. This included constitutional amendments, amendments to practices and an increase of student voice and involvement. I have met with a member of management and progress is being made on the issue. Myself and the RSLO hope to implement these reforms after Easter.
I have always held the view that good work and ambitious projects begin with discussion, simple talk. With this in mind, I talk to many of my friends and peers of the ISSU. I remind them that they have voices and when people come to me I remind them of their power as a person. The power of their voice. I really believe that this belief is essential for making change and if elected I promise to bring this value further. Further for the benefit of more.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
I would like to achieve a national awareness of the ISSU because I can see that many students are not very familiar with us and the work that we do. We are a student's union and I believe that for us to create the biggest impact of good, all Irish students should know who we are and what we do.
I would also like to achieve a greater willingness for schools to work with and facilitate RO's with their regional projects. These regional projects are often a large undertaking and big responsibility which is only made even more difficult by schools who do not respond or cooperate with the RO's. This could be done with awareness campaigns, liaising with member schools and encouraging non-member schools to join the ISSU.
I would like to see a very different education system to the one we have now. An education system that listens to the students more. An education system built by students for students. I'm aware that this is a big ask, but the best things started off as crazy ideas. The work of the ROB is absolutely essential to the success of this goal and the success of our Union. The regional projects are a lifeline for student voice. This is why I am running for Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach. For the ROB to succeed they need good management. From dealing with many problems in the past on a personal level, a school level and from various professional levels, I am confident that I can provide that management. Management that is inclusive, empathetic and sincere.
In positions of responsibility, empathy is one of the most important virtues. The ability to see situations from another person’s perspective builds trust, and without trust, collaboration becomes impossible. Leaders must avoid appearing superior, as this creates resentment and undermines effective management. Through difficult experiences with peers and adults, I have learned the true value of empathy and how to act with it.
I believe that certain parts of the curriculum should be made more accessible to students. For example the JC Irish curriculum requires student's to memorise entire essays just to write them down when the same questions appear. Many of these student's simply forget these essays after exams. This form of education does not substantially increase one's knowledge of the teanga. Instead it teaches people to hate it. As well as this, many student's brains are simply not suited to mindlessly memorising paragraphs of sentences, so they fail the exam thinking that there is something wrong with them. This is just one example and if I am elected I will work my very hardest to make sure that these issues are recognised and that those in power will take steps to make our education accessible to everyone, not just the academically talented.
These are some of the things that i would passionately strive to achieve for second-level students if elected to the Coiste gnó.
@Nathanael.for.rlso
Oifigeach Chomhionannais (Equality Officer) Candidates
Valeriia Stepanenko (She/Her)
Opening Statement
Dia Daoibh! I am Valeriia Stepanenko and I am running to be your next Oifigeach Comhionannais (Equality Officer)! Originally I am from Ukraine, but because of russia's full-scale invasion of my homeland I had to leave it. So, in 2022 I came to Wexford, Ireland, as a war refugee, and now this place became my second home.
I am running for this role because equality and inclusion are very important and close topics to my heart, as I, myself, had to experience discrimination on various occasions, and I believe nobody deserves to face this. I aim to represent, uplift and defend the voice of many students like me.
Ever since I came here, I tried my best to get involved in the community around me, thus I volunteered as a translator at my village where I had a chance to liaise and collaborate with the local enterprises, organisations and other stakeholders. I am a Learning Hub Leader, Student Council Representative and a Prefect. I also had a chance to participate in public speaking and student enterprise competitions, winning various awards.
As the current ISSU Oifigeach Comhionannais, I had a chance to work on the period poverty campaign, women in sports campaign, organise the Women's Conference and Racism in Schools report launch, and so many more projects. Apart from that, I had a chance to participate in interviews, Youth Migration Programme Podcast, and advocate for equality at various levels. In addition, Last year I took 1st place in the Careers Portal Work Experience competition in the senior category.
On the fun side, my hobbies are drawing, dancing and listening to music, and in future I want to study a course on International Relations and Politics.
I am going to post more information about me, my experience, and my goals on my social media, so please make sure to follow me. I would appreciate your vote for me and, if elected, it will be a great honour for me to serve as your Oifigeach Chomhionannais for the 2026/2027 term.
Past Experience
As I have already mentioned, ever since I came here, I got very involved in the community around me. I volunteered as a translator at my village where I had a chance to interact with a lot of people, and liaise and collaborate with the local enterprises, organisations and other stakeholders. This would be very beneficial in terms of communicating with organisations which one of the most important parts of the Equality Officer role.
At school, I am a Learning Hub Leader, Student Council Representative and a Prefect. I got involved in making award-winning movies on Gender Inequality and Climate Change. I have also participated in many team projects like Young Social Innovators project, student enterprise and public speaking competitions, and I was a Marketing Manager for the BOI at my school. I aim to use this promoting and planning my campaigns which are listed below.
I also had a chance to go on a Czech-Irish exchange and TY Pilgrimage to Medjugorje. I am a youth ambassador for Mary's Meals where I work with people from all around the world during meetings, workshops, projects and so on. This, combined with my refugee experience, would be very useful in my Wealth Inequality in Education and Migrant campaigns. In this role, I would be able to advocate and bring a light to issues that many refugees, including myself, have experienced.
Lastly, as the current ISSU Oifigeach Comhionannais, I had a chance to work on various campaigns and events, collaborate and communicate with different organisations, and proof-read documents, which is very important to the role. Apart from that, I had a chance to participate in interviews, Youth Migration Programme Podcast, and advocate for equality at both local and national levels. Thus, this makes me very equipped for the role of the Equality Officer and I would very much appreciate your vote!
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
Equality and inclusion are just among the few things that I would like to achieve for second-level students if elected. I will work hard to defend and promote anti-discrimination within and on behalf of the ISSU, and on issues that affect second-level students. I have a list of projects that I would like to continue from my current term and to work on.
With the return of the examination entry fees 2026 state examinations, I aim conduct a wealth inequality in education campaign to address the rising costs of education and collaborate with the Education Officer to push for more affordable education options. I will also host a campaign aimed at supporting and uplifting the voice of students falling under the category of migrant, asylum seeker, or international protection status by collaborating with the Communication Officer.
I will implement ISSU’s equality Directive Mandates such as DM13 (Sexual harassment at schools) and DM15 (Trans Students Campaign) and Directive Policies like DP/B (Conversion Therapy Ban), DP/D (Sustainable Period Products) just like I did during my current term as the Oifigeach Comhionannais through campaigns and collaboration with organisations like BelongTo, Women’s Aid, INAR and so much more.
I want to work on the period poverty campaign, Trans Students Campaign and Conversion Therapy Ban. After organising the Women’s Conference 2026, I aim to help with ISSU events like DYDM, Women’s Conference and so many more. Finally, I will start the equality working group which will assist me with some of the projects listed here!
I am going to post more detailed information about my goals for my role on social media, so please make sure to follow me everywhere. I would very much appreciate your vote, and I will work to represent your voice on every level, and achieve equality once and for all.
@valeriia4equality
Oifigeach Cumarsáide (Communications Officer) Candidates
Alanah Moriarty (She/Her)
Opening Statement
Hello, my name is Alannah, and I am a 16 year old 5th year student from Dublin. I have always been a lover of public speaking and activism. This involves great communicative skills to make sure points are clearly emphasized. I have always been a great communicator, usually the one trusted with that role within my family and friends. I know how to get information across to people in a way that they can understand and remember, while also being creative for things like social media. As a visually impaired student, accessible communication is important to me, as everyone should have easy access to valuable information. My love for writing and speaking will make me a great fit for this role. With good communication, people become less stressed, which can lead to more work getting done. I have always been a reliable person and I have a great memory which will make communicating information easy for me. I believe that this is important for a group of people to work together with the best outcomes ahead.
Past Experience
I have been involved in my school's student council since I was in first year. I have spoken at assemblies about important events the council are involved in such as our Christmas card service, competitions and meetings with management. I have attended several of those meetings with management, where I have brought up issues that are important to students. I am visually impaired. Because of this, I have had to communicate my needs to teachers, SNAs, parents, youth workers, friends and family since I could speak. Because of this, I am able to communicate to all different types of people in ways that suit them best. I have been a communications officer for myself my entire life, which has given me great experience and capabilities. I am involved in Fingal Comhairle na Nog, where I have taken part in our Annual Youth Conferences, and workshops with other organisations to emphasize important issues that are at the centre of interest for young people such as myself. I have been involved in conferences, events and working groups centred around helping visually impaired people, or spreading awareness about what it's like to be visually impaired. I will bring a fresh perspective to the role, with ideas on how to make posters, websites and social media posts accessible for everyone. I will bring clear and efficient communication that will help ISSU run smoothly, and make everyone aware of all valuable information. I will make sure that all of the great work done by ISSU gets known to all young people.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
I would like to make sure that all the work that ISSU tirelessly do is known by all young people. I would like to do this as young people deserve to have information that can help them, and know what is being done to make life better for young people. I would like to make sure social media and websites are accessible and inclusive so anyone can get the best out of them. I would like to make sure that anyone within ISSU has all the information they need so they can do their best in their role with minimal stress. I will do this by providing clear, and effective communication, making informative social media posts, and speading all important information about campaigns and projects that officers are doing.
Oifigeach na Gaeilge Candidates
No Applicants
Oifigeach an Mhíchumais (Disability Officer) Candidates
Conor Clifford (He/Him)
Opening Statement
Dia Dhaoibh a chairde, I am Conor Clifford a disability and youth advocate and I am running to be your next Oifigeach an Mhichumais (disability officer). I am a determined, enthusiastic and empathetic young person who strides to promote and fight for disability and student rights, inclusion, and equality. I am an approachable and supportive person who ensures that everyone is included and equal in every activity with some of my hobbies including public speaking and debating, playing music on the piano and overall having a bit of craic and being a friend to everyone I meet.
Past Experience
My experience includes
• being a disability rights
• ISSU Peer Education Inclusion and
Equality workshop facilitator
• ISSU North Dublin Regional Officer
2026
• numerous Youth Advisory Group member.
• Worked alongside many disability organisations
• Advocated and debated government officials on inequalities in education.
• Student Council Chairperson 2025/2026
• Gaisce Youth Ambassador
• Vision Sports Ireland Champion
If elected, I would bring a wide range of skills and values to the Cioste Gnò that would include leadership skills, strategic thinking and enthusiasm. These skills would be vital as they will assist the Cioste Gnò to be more strategic and enthusiastic when working on projects and making decisions.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If elected as your next disability officer, I would like to achieve the following:
Awareness and Advocacy
• advocate on behalf of students with a disability and additional needs.
• spread awareness about any inequalities that students with a disability or additional needs may face.
• Promote accessibility within the ISSU and member schools.
• advocate for more resources and support for students with a disability or additional needs.
Communication and support
• be a friendly person that students can approach about issues and concerns.
• offer support sessions for those that need assistance in accessibility or need advice.
Campaigning and promotion
• campaign for more sensory rooms and reasonable accommodations.
• campaign for teacher training that focuses on teaching students with a disability.
• launch peer voice initiatives.
• campaign to promote inclusion and equality for students with a disability to get more involved in extracurricular activities.
Accessible and inclusive curriculum
• Encouraging for there to be a more inclusive and accessible curriculum in second level education that is in the best interest of everyone's ability.
I would achieve these goals by working with all Cioste Gnò officers, member schools and relevant stakeholders and organisations to launch campaigns and promote accessibility and the aims that I would like to achieve.
@conor4disability
Ellie Cogan Lavelle (She/Her)
Opening Statement
Since a young age I have always advocated for the rights of others, at 8 years old I said my dream job was a women’s rights activist. Since then I have kept that passion to fight for the rights of others. As a disabled person myself it is extremely important to me that all disabled students have access to supports and resources they deserve, and that all ISSU members are aware of how they can better support disabled students and peers. This is extremely important to me and I know I have the drive and passion to make sure that this is done. In any role I have every had I have always made sure every goal is completed, and I always fully dedicate myself, and I would do the same in the CG.
Past Experience
I am a member of Cork City Comhairle Na nÓg and recently got voted as national executive. For the last 2 years in Comhairle we had disability inclusion as our topic, we got to meet with many disabled people and groups. At the end of the project we ran an event for young people with disabilities, we called this our “fun inclusive youth space“, we then created a zine with guidelines on how to run inclusive youth spaces. From this I learnt a lot about disability access and inclusion and how to support young people with disabilities. I also learnt a lot about different ways to make events and meetings accessible. I believe I could bring these skills to the Disability officer role by making sure all meetings and events are accessible, and also making sure all CO members are educated on how to make sure ISSU can support disabled students. I am also disabled myself and I believe my personal experience from dealing with my school could be invaluable.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
I would make sure all disabled and neurodivergent students are aware of the accommodations they should have access to. Currently it is very hard to find information on these. I would make sure there is a clear, easy to understand guide on what students can access to better support them. For example it is very hard to get information on how to get language exemptions in leaving cert, as these have to be done by the student and not by the school. I would make sure there is easily accessible guide on how to get these exemptions. I would also make sure there is a clear timetable for things like applying to RACE and DARE so students do not miss the deadline. It is also very important to me that students who use assistive technology are given tips and tricks on how to better use these to support their learning and study, this is something I would make sure of as disability officer. I would also push to have every CO member educated on how to support disabled students and ISSU members, and make the ISSU is fully accesible.
@Ellie4disability
Rúnaí (Secretary) Candidates
Ava De Siún (She/Her Sí/Í)
Opening Statement
Ava De Siún is ainm dom. I’m currently a 6th year student in a rural community school in county Galway. Throughout my school life I’ve always been devoted to student leadership and more so as a person, to helping others. In relation to that passion, the most central aspect of the role of the Runaí in this union is organisation, but not just for organisations sake, but to make the work this union does accessible for member schools and productive for the Coiste Gnó as a whole.
Beyond this, I have a strong love for Gaeilge. I have never seen the language as a school subject, or hated the grammar rules and irregular verbs. For me, its always been that missing piece of who I was. Despite not growing up in a Gaeltacht area, or attended a Gaelscoil, I never allowed myself to separate from such a central aspect of our culture. Relevant to this, I intend to bring that love into this role as rúnaí and honour our teanga dhúchais appropriately in this bilingual union.
I’ve always recognised the poor education system structured around the language, and through this role I can support all members of the Coiste Gnó in their endevours, whether they be in relation to this or not.
I always have an open ear, I believe it is one of my better skills, and it is imperative in this role that I can understand and support my fellow Coiste members in whatever passions they bring into their roles too. This is which I promise to do.
Past Experience
Currently, I am a member of the CMC/MAC. This role has taught me a great deal that will carry over with relevance to the role of Rúnaí. Organisation, communication and familiarity with the Constitution have immensely grown my confidence to perform this role to the highest possible standard.
Along with this, it has helped me develop as a complimentary piece of a larger unit, and the importance of effective understanding when working in a team.
I have attended Skills and DYDM and have competed in debating and public speaking at a national level. I cannot emphasise enough, through my own experience, the necessity that is communication as Rúnaí. The responsibility I’d have with working groups and meetings would have the ability to flourish and thrive with this experience.
As well as this, the MAC has prepared me indefinitely to know G-Suite like the back of my hand, and with the work experience I have in my own student council, I have extensive experience in writing minutes for meetings.
The rúnaí is a leader in the union, not by command but by support. A great leader brings out the best in everyone to perform on their own, and with my experience, I can assure that this Coiste Gnó will have the utmost support to achieve great each and every goal they aspire to.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
What I seek to achieve for Second-Level students around the country goes beyond what I’ll do directly. It goes to the full extent and success of the Coiste Gnó to work effectively. The rúnaí takes a portion of load from our Coiste to focus on their Mandates that students will see in real time. But great things are built on strong foundations, that is what the rúnaí is.
I intend to work as the supportive foundation for the Coiste in every aspect, to ensure a wider benefit for the student who may not ever see my face or hear my name.
I don’t need my name attatched to great work to feel fulfilled, I only desire to see great work. But, I can contribute to it’s production, and I intend do to this with the full extent of my experience and a determination to see best for students around the country.
What I would love to see, more than anything, is a change and a support for the students entering the new leaving cert system. However I can be involved in that, by working group or in the background, it is the most central part of why I endeavour in student voice in the first place.
Holly Cassidy (She/Her)
@
Opening Statement
Dia dhaoibh gach duine! Holly Ní Chasadaigh is ainm dom and I am an award-winning student, entrepreneur, young scientist, social innovator and public speaker, as well as being an Oifigeach Réigiúnach Loch Gorman (Wexford Regional Officer) for the ISSU this year.
Born and raised in the sunny South-East, outside of school, I take part in contemporary dance, am an active member of Comhairle na nÓg Wexford, enjoy coastal rowing in the Summer and even am part of a Youth Advisory Group for a children’s rights e-learning course.
I attended a small primary school, with just 40 students total, and so know how to adapt to big changes in life, as the step up to a school with almost 700 pupils in first year is not for the weak! Throughout my school life, I have excelled academically, achieving seven distinctions in the Junior Certificate exams, however, I have been involved in so many other extra-curricular activities too – ranging from debating and public speaking to STEM and peer support. I am in Transition Year this year and have received even more incredible opportunities as a result that have led to my own personal growth and skills development, that I have no doubt will be pivotal to my success in this role.
From reaching the national exhibition of the Stripe Young Scientist Competition, to running three highly successful enterprises, my achievements and the impact that they have had on me help me to motivate and support my classmates, stay organised with heavy workloads, lead teams and contribute to group discussions confidently.
I am applying for the role of Rúnaí on the Coiste Gnó this year, and hope that I have your support on my journey.
Go raibh mile maith agaibh!
Past Experience
As I have mentioned above, each and every school year has brought new challenges and opportunities to me, many of which I sought out of my own initiative. Some highlights of my involvement both inside and outside of the school community include:
• Reaching the national finals of the Student Enterprise Programme with my sustainable business “Sparkly Clean” in 2023, which proves my commitment to tasks, proactiveness and ability to take initiative in resolving issues, and innovative mind.
• Fundraising and organising collections for various charity organisations, including the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal and the Epona Dawn Fund, helping to raise vital finances for those in need, and demonstrating my strong teamwork and organisational skills and my dedication to improving the livelihoods of the wider global community.
• Receiving national recognition for my teammates and I’s Stripe Young Scientist project, “When the Wind Blow, Where the Plastic Go?”, where we investigated an environmental issue and created a solution, enabling us to meet key figures such as the Taoiseach and Minister for Education throughout the journey.
I also:
• Am a member of my student council
• Am a member of the Wexford Comhairle na nÓg
• Captained the winning debating team at the St. Louis Network National Finals
• And so much more!
To the role of Rúnaí, I can bring, my proactiveness and reliability, which will aid me to take action, get things done, and be someone you can trust to meet deadlines, but also, to be a listening ear.
I can also bring my organisational qualities, which are pivotal to the role to enable me to organise nationwide events, delegate tasks, help others, and work efficiently.
Finally, my creativity, innovation and curious mind will always be at hand throughout my time in this role, and I am confident that the plethora of skills I possess are central to reaching my potential as Rúnaí.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If elected to the Coiste Gnó, I would like to fulfil every single aim of the ISSU, as outlined on their Website, as no student should be left behind.
As Rúnaí, I will hold a duty to the students of Ireland to represent them, organise events for them, and ensure the Union stays co-ordinated, for them, as without a Rúnaí that is capable, committed and communicative, the ISSU would not be what it is today, and will not remain how it is into the future.
Throughout the duration of my role, I would like to:
• Further develop the Civic Education and Vote at 16 campaigns, and achieve meaningful strides towards action on these projects. This is important to me, as I feel that young people’s voices should be heard by decisionmakers in rode rot create a future that we can rely on. Following in the footsteps of previous Rúnaís, continuing to grow this campaign would continue to make the message clearer and clearer to those in power, and the campaigns, not just awareness projects, but action ones.
• Continue to strive for and achieve an organised and co-ordinated ISSU, though carrying out roles such as taking minutes of meetings, producing agendas, delegating tasks and outlining workloads for other Coiste Gnó officers. I strive to achieve this, as I am confident that organisation is what separates a group from a team, and what makes a good team, great, and I know that my experience with organising events, work and people will stand to me and the ISSU in this role.
• Finally, I would like to take on the possibility of organising key ISSU events such as An Chomháil Bliantiúil and the Skills Assembly, as well as aiding other officers in organising their own events, as I believe that the more people impacted by the ISSU, the stronger the student community will grow.
Isabelle Reen O’Mahoney (She/Her)
@holly4runai
Opening Statement
Dia dhuit! My name is Isabelle, and I am a Transition Year student in County Cork. I’m a bit of a bookworm and someone who is always looking to stay busy and make a difference, whether that is through projects, activities, or working with others.
I first got involved in ISSU two years ago when I attended the Cork Regional Assembly. I went in not knowing much about the Union, but as I listened to the outgoing officers speak, I found myself really drawn to the work and vision of the organisation. That day, I put my name forward and was fortunate enough to be elected as Cork Regional Officer, and then re-elected the following year!
I am a very people-focused person. Growing up in a family of six, teamwork has always been a big part of my life. Whether it was small tasks like getting my younger brother to school on time or helping out at home, I was always working with others to get things done. While I might not have always appreciated it at the time, it has definitely shaped how I approach things now. Because of it, I’m good at understanding what a group needs and stepping in to support others when it is needed.
I am also quite talkative, and I see that as a positive. I believe strongly that hearing different voices is essential for creating real change. Because of this, I care about creating spaces where students feel comfortable to get involved and share their experiences with confidence. Whether that is in classrooms, committees, or wider student organisations, I think everyone deserves to feel that their voice matters.
Overall, I would describe myself as someone who enjoys working with others and empowering students voices.
Past Experience
I have been involved in a wide range of roles up to now which skills and experience have, and will, directly enhance my capabilities as Runaí.
As head of my schools Model United Nations society, I’ve learnt how to increase teamwork and participation, for example when I increased membership during my term from 6 students to 32 students. I also improved my negotiating and lobbying skills, from both inside the conferences where I’ve won awards but also outside, where I’ve negotiated cost reductions of nearly €1,500 to ensure MUN remains a barrier-free and inclusive space for all members.
As Debate Captain, I’ve committed over four years to competitive debating, reaching quarter and semi-finals at national level and judging competitions, experiences which have improved my ability to communicate and engage with complex issues as part of a team.
Aswell, I’m a member of my schools Global Citizenship Education club, where we are currently organising initiatives such as Corks Annual Students Human Rights Conference, where over 300+ students from across the county will explore human rights through workshops and talks.
Beyond school, I am a Cork RO and a member of Cork City Comahirle na nÓg, where I contribute to regional projects on issues such as housing and education. Aswell, I lead the Frederick Douglass Commemoration Committee, where I work with a team of young people to advocate for greater recognition of Frederick Douglass in Cork. Through this, we have delivered workshops to younger students, combining education with arts activism to make complex issues like slavery and equality more understandable and engaging.
These experiences have required strong internal organisation, coordination, and communication. From working with external organisations to managing teams and delivering projects, I’ve developed essential skills which I will bring to the role of Runaí.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If I got the chance to be elected to the Coiste Gnó, my main focus would be on strengthening communication, promoting civic education, and ensuring meaningful student engagement across all aspects of the ISSU’s work.
Firstly, I want to improve transparency and accessibility. I wholeheartedly believe that students should clearly understand what the ISSU is doing and how it represents them. As Secretary, I would ensure timely, clear minutes and accessible summaries so that all officers and students are informed and engaged.
Secondly, I am deeply committed to advancing civic education and the Vote at 16 campaign. Young people are directly affected by political decisions, yet often lack the opportunities to engage with politics. Working with the other officers, such as the Sustainability officer, I would continue the Civic Engagement and Vote at 16 Working Group, ensuring that young voices are heard by engaging with students from across the country at the grassroots level. In addition to this, I hope to develop new resources with the aim of teaching students about democracy in Ireland and further enhances their understanding of their rights.
Thirdly, I would prioritise the effective organisation of key ISSU events, where my experience organising conferences such as MUNs and Cork’s Annual Students Human Rights Conference would allow me to contribute to organising key ISSU events such as An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil and Skills Academy.
Finally, I would actively support other officers in their work, because I recognise that the Secretary plays a central role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the entire Coiste. By fostering collaboration and strong communication, I would help improve the ISSU’s impact for all second-level students.
@isabelle_for_runai
Oifigeach Oideachais (Education Officer) Candidates
Alfie O’Reilly (He / Him)
Opening Statement
Hi! My name is Alfie O’Reilly, I’m a 5th year student from Greystones, Co. Wicklow, with a passion for change and activism, particularly regarding youth involvement. I am responsible, understanding and committed to all the work I am involved in.
I first found my drive for making change at the age of 9, when I moved from County Down to my home in County Wicklow. When I moved to a school in Ireland, I noticed a few things that the Irish education system was missing when compared to the system I was used to in Northern Ireland. This led me to write a letter to the Minister for Education at the time, Richard Bruton, about the need for the introduction of first aid and a modern foreign language into the Irish primary-level education system. Though I was sent a pretty brief, tokenistic letter in return, I was far from discouraged from continuing to advocate for change.
Since then I have been able to be more and more involved with activism groups and I have been able to make my voice heard by working with organisations such as the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), Comhairle and Dáil na Nóg and, of course, the ISSU.
I hope to continue advocating for all sorts of important matters in my future.
Past Experience
I am fortunate enough to be involved in the NCCA as a student representative, attending monthly meetings alongside teachers in my school to discuss how a redevelopment of the Irish second-level school system could work and how our current one could be improved. I ensure that student voice is heard and not left to be ignored. I am very used to being the youngest in the room and making sure that I am treated as an equal. These are qualities that I believe would benefit me in the Education Officer role.
Furthermore, in 2025 I set up and ran the first ever ‘Greystones Trilateral Student Congress’, an event for the student councils of the 3 secondary schools in my town to come together and discuss the issues we face in our schools and our local area as well as question local representatives at a Q&A panel. This event allowed me to collect data on issues and potential solutions that students in my area face and create a report. This report is called the ‘Greystones Student Voice Report 2025’, I had the opportunity to present this report in Leinster House in January and I am set to present it to the Greystones Municipal District at the end of March. This has allowed me to work with representatives and learn how youth issues are addressed, it is also a step I have taken to have youth voice listened to, especially on issues to do with education.
Finally, I have certainly taken on board the ISSU’s Policy Book DP34, the ISSU’s opposition of unequal access to subjects and resources, as I led a petition for the Department of Education to provide the promised extension to my school and help its overcrowding problem that is leading to students being unable to take subjects due to a lack of space. The petition reached over 3000 signatures and meetings have begun with the Department. They have since promised to make it a priority project.
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
I would like all students to have a place to share their opinions, experiences and ideas about the Irish education system. I would do this by holding an event, similar to the Trilateral Student Congress I organised last year, where students come together to discuss the problems they face and possible solutions. This would help make sure full representation is being achieved and issues from many different perspectives are understood.
I think it is crucial that all students don’t just have a representative that speaks on their behalf, but an ability to directly communicate their feelings towards education to help shape policies made and actions taken by that representative.
I would continue to advocate for the removal of oral examinations during mid-term breaks, a stronger implementation of continued assessment for Leaving Certificate, and equal opportunities for all students no matter their socio-economic background. I believe these all are very pressing matters facing second-level students and I am particularly passionate about them.
Along with this, I want to be as present as possible in any opportunity where student voice can be heard, whether that be meetings with the Department of Education, NGOs or with school boards themselves. I would like to grow the demand for student voice at the table when discussing educational matters that affect them.
Farhan Tijani (She / Her)
Opening Statement
Hi, My name is Farhan Tijani, a 5th year student with strong interest in creativity, and I am always curios.
I love to get creative and innovative, but also use my creativity to impact people positively and not just leave it as an idea.
Some of my hobbies are writing, crocheting, and brainstorming.
Past Experience
I have been involved in quite a lot, but recently enough, I am a member of the EcoUnesco Youth Advisory Group. This is a newly launched group where young people come together to discuss impactful and save environmental ways and lifestyle.
I am also working on an app called ReThread, this tries to promote ethical fashion choices providing accessible control measures and knowledge, where I focused on solving a real world and impactful problem through creativity and innovation. This has helped me develop skills in problem solving, planning and thinking wide range.
I have also taken part in activities in my youth club as a youth leader, representing my peers at projects on youth voices, discrimination, challenges youths in rural areas face, misconception and backward solution for youth crime, etc. This has helped build skills like leadership, teamwork, communication, proper pressure handling, where I learned to listen to others, shares ideas, and contribute to group goals. I am someone open to feedback, and constructive criticism.
In my free time, I spend a lot of time writing, this has helped me reflect daily on not just my situations but all that happend.
As a member of the team, I am open to teamwork, listening, contributing, brainstorming together, finding plan B's when needed, willingness to take an initiative. And lastly self confidence and carry the team along putting a smile on everyone's face at the end of it all
What would you like to achieve if elected? Why?
If elected to the Coiste Gnó, I would like to challenge the way students are seen, especially the aspect of behaviour and fails. I think there is a misconception that student behaviour including youth crime, always comes down to individual bad choices. In reality many students are dealing with background issues (still not a reasons to commit a crime), but if taken into consideration, more crimes can be curbed. At the same time there are others missing out on opportunities all because opportunities aren't communicated well or are only known to few.
This matters to me because every student deserves to feel supported, understood, and empowered to reach their potential. Misunderstood behaviour can create unnecessary barriers, while limited access to empowering competitions and programs can reduce students skills development, passion and confidence. I believe changing these patterns can create a fairer and more encouraging environment for everyone.
To address this, I would work on raising awareness about available opportunities, meeting with schools student council rather than teachers to ensure their awareness, so all students know what is out there and how to get involved, not just the already confidents ones, but everyone. I would also promote initiatives to encourage open conversations, helping students feel safe, make mistakes, grow from mistakes without fear of judgement. And ensure they know who ot where to reach out to in need of any kind of support.
Overall, I want to make sure we all feel included, heard, recognised, contributive, impacting and just have the access to the experiences to grow and be understood.
@
@Real_talk_rep4280
Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC) Candidates
David Morrissey (He/Him)
Louisa Tyrrell
Rónán Ó hÍcí (Sé/É)
