Empowering Gen-Z: TY Media Week Unveils Youth Perspectives.
This week marked the commencement of the Learning Waves TY Media Week programme at KCLR 96 FM, with nine enthusiastic students completing this unique programme. This programme marks the first TY Media Week for 2024.
A wide range of schools from across the South East took part in the TY Media Week in Kilkenny, below is a list of the participating schools.
- Good Counsel College, New Ross
- St. Leo's College, Carlow
- St Mary's Knockbeg College, Enniscorthy
- CBS Kilkenny
- Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny
Guided by their knowledgeable mentor, John Keane, Radio Presenter at KCLR 96 FM, the TY Media Week programme gives students the opportunity to see the behind-the-scenes of a radio station, receive comprehensive training in audio recording, and uniquely, craft their very own show – a production that is 100% their own creation.
As an integral component of the programme, students engaged with professionals from diverse industries. They conducted insightful interviews with notable personalities, including Mario Rosenstock, the acclaimed Irish Comedian and Creator of The Mario Rosenstock Podcast. Their conversation delved into his career, the creative concepts behind his shows, and the invaluable advice he would give to aspiring individuals venturing into the media landscape. The students engaged Mario in a thought-provoking dialogue on Cancel Culture, questioning the boundary between right and wrong in comedy.
Adding another layer to their experience, the students also had the privilege of interviewing Aidan “Taggy” Fogarty, a highly decorated Kilkenny Hurler boasting 8 All-Ireland Medals. Taggy generously shared insights and motivational advice with the group, emphasising the importance of setting goals and persevering in the face of setbacks. The students explored various areas of Taggy's experiences, including navigating life in the public eye, participating in fundraising efforts, and his experience on Dancing with the Stars in 2020. These interviews not only provided the students with unique perspectives but also served as enriching encounters with accomplished individuals from different spheres.
An integral aspect of the programme is the students’ active involvement in selecting the topics they wish to explore. These chosen subjects provide valuable insights into the prevailing themes and issues affecting Gen-Z today. The topics selected by the students at KCLR 96 FM are as diverse as they are relevant, spanning discussions on COVID, AI technology, news and fake news, and the climate crisis.
Drawing from research conducted by the Youth Lab at THINKHOUSE in 2023, it is evident that the concerns and interests of individuals ages 16 to 35 revolve around critical issues. THINKHOUSE annually explores the question, “What is it like to be young today?” In 2023, key concerns were the cost-of-living crisis, housing and health. Remarkably, these themes echoed in previous years, with housing, health and climate change being the key concerns. While certain issues persist, the group at KCLR 96 FM has given us an insight into the new areas of concern for young people in 2024: news vs. fake news and AI technology.
There is no doubt that AI and misinformation online has become a key area of discussion across various ages and industries. As part THINKHOUSE’s predictions for 2024: AI, Data, Uncertainty, Trust & Misinformation serves up major challenges and opportunities. Donagh Humphreys, Head of Social & Digital Innovation said: “There is a lot of noise around AI. Who is creating what and with which AI tool. Ultimately the real effectiveness of Generative AI is getting creative made quickly, in a way that is cost effective and to a quality that is equal to, if not better than, traditionally created content. Until this starts to happen, the noise around AI will be just that.” Speaking on the future of AI, Lottie Armstrong, Communications Manager, Ben & Jerry’s EU/ANZ said “The need for greater transparency will continue to be crucial for 2024. The rise of AI generated content and the challenge of misinformation online asks for increased scrutiny on brand claims and communications. We can expect people to continue to see more authentic connections with brands they choose to engage with.”
It’s also worth noting that mental health remains a consistently popular topic among transition year students completing the programme. The challenges faced by Gen-Z are noteworthy, considering the profound impact of factors like social media and the internet being ingrained in their upbringing, coupled with the disruptions caused by the pandemic, which have left a lasting imprint on their education. Navigating through these challenges, this generation has shown resilience and determination in prioritising their mental health.
The research conducted by THINKHOUSE not only underscores the enduring relevance of mental health discussions but also unveils the broader interests of this dynamic in 2023. Ranging from a passion for travel and adventure to an appreciation for food experiences, sports, wellness activities, and a love for the great outdoors, these interests mirror the unique challenges and experiences that have shaped the values of this generation as they navigate the complexities of growing up.
The popularity of this programme amongst Transition Year students is growing year-on-year. In 2023, 258 students from 168 schools completed the programmes across 13 independent radio stations. The programme has had a lasting effect on students, especially in considering a career path in media:
“I’ve always had an interest in sports journalism. After my experience on the TY Media Week programme, I would love to pursue a career in radio after the leaving cert. It’s my dream job.” Martin Conway, iRadio, November 2023.
Not only did the programme introduce the prospects of a career in radio to the students, it also improved their wellbeing.
“My favourite part of the course was meeting new people. Everyone here is so lovely and so kind. I feel like this course has brought a lot of my confidence back. Being in front of the camera and on the microphone pushed me out of my comfort zone.” Faye Turner, Beat 102 103, November 2023.
The students at KCLR 96 FM will be getting a chance to broadcast individually on the John Keane show this Friday as they receive their certificates of completion live on air. Make sure to tune in to KCLR 96 FM at 1p.m. to hear about their experience on the programme.
For more information on this programme go to: https://www.learningwaves.ie/ty-media-programme and also follow our social media pages for updates on the programme.