A wonderful affirmation of industry collaboration, youth voice and activism.
Rayaa Onog embracing her mother, receives a standing ovation after her inspiring speech at Fota Island
Guests at the basis.point Regional Dinner, in Fota Island Resort Hotel in Cork, were treated to a wonderful affirmation that the Irish fund industry’s collaboration and collective giving is changing lives.
Minister Michael McGrath with basis.point co-founder Eimear Cowhey
Speaking at the 2nd Regional Dinner, Minister Michael McGrath spoke of the importance of the role that the funds industry play both in generating employment and wealth in the South East but also in giving back to the local community through the collaborative work of basis.point.
Since the beginning we have pledged over €2million to educational programmes in Munster and the South East, which represents over a third of all grant allocations.
Our focus at the event this year, was on the regional work of Teen-Turn inspiring young girls to embrace technology, empowering them and opening doors to careers in STEM.
Guests were humbled as Rayaa Onog shared her personal story, the embodiment of all that is positive about 21st century learning, youth voice and agency.
Rayaa Onog emphasised the importance of early encouragement and support
Rayaa Onog, a 17-year-old Teen-Turn and Child Rights Ambassador, shared her journey from early challenges in Ireland to excelling in science.
Thanks to Teen Turn, she engaged in STEM projects, won competitions, and improved her communication skills. As an advocate for children’s rights and a Yale Young Global Scholar, she urged support for initiatives empowering girls in STEM.
Emphasizing the importance of encouragement from parents and support from organizations like Teen Turn, Rayaa called for continued investment in initiatives that empower girls in STEM.
Celebrating the impactful work in the Munster and Southeast region, enabled by corporate and individual donations, Minister Michael McGrath encouraged everyone to continue to build on our strong foundation.
We know that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and disadvantage and we know it can offer all children a real chance to grow and develop.
The evening wasn’t purely serious business. Under the glow of a setting sun, industry colleagues enjoyed a relaxed evening amongst friends, and hatched plans to grow the event further. Sincere thanks to our sponsors BNY Mellon and Matheson. Now in it’s second year, we are indebted to a group of colleagues and volunteers from both organisations, whose vision and hard work have ensured that this event is fast becoming a highlight in the basis.point calendar.
We are grateful to Minister McGrath for taking time to demonstrate his commitment to our vision and share his thoughts on the important role of education. And we would also like to thank the Cork School of Music whose students provided a wonderful backdrop to what proved to be an another uplifting industry event.
Supporting young people to reach their potential throughout the entire country is an important focus for our work. It is encouraging to see the level of support in Munster and the South East. It is now our priority to build on such a strong foundation.
Picture credits John Allen
