On Wednesday, 4th October 2023, Student Sustainability kicked off its SDG Conversation Series for the academic year by welcoming Linda Ledger, CEO of St Munchin's Community Centre, to share her perspectives on Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) - No Poverty.
Linda's remarkable journey as CEO of St Munchin's Community Centre has been marked by a steadfast commitment to addressing poverty and fostering social inclusion within the local community. Under her leadership, the centre has evolved into a vibrant hub of social enterprise and essential services, all aimed at uplifting individuals and families experiencing economic hardship.
At the heart of St Munchin's Community Centre are various social enterprises and support initiatives tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community. From Meals on Wheels and a Hair and Beauty Salon to Community Allotments and a Photography Studio, these enterprises not only provide valuable services but also create employment opportunities and generate income to support the centre's mission.
With over 120 staff members and 60 volunteers, St Munchin's Community Centre serves as a beacon of hope and support for those facing poverty and social exclusion. Linda's emphasis on collaboration with schools and educational institutions underscores the importance of access to education as a pathway out of poverty, ensuring that future generations are empowered to build better futures for themselves and their communities.
Linda's partnership with UL's CWELL programme exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives in tackling poverty and promoting sustainable development. By actively engaging citizens in community development projects and providing support to learners, the programme fosters a culture of empowerment and collective action towards achieving SDG 1.
Linda's insights serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that community-led initiatives can have in combating poverty and building resilient societies.
The UL Student Sustainability Conversation Series invites exceptional individuals to speak to students in the University about their professional and personal experiences, centrally themed around a UN Sustainable Development Goal. We do this to showcase to students the fantastic real-life work that takes place around us in advancing economic, environmental, and/or social sustainability, while providing students with worldviews and perspectives that inspire and challenge perceptions around effective sustainable development. Find out more at www.ul.ie/sustainability.