TY Media Day 2026: Learn | Inspire | Connect.
On 29th April 2026, Transition Year students from across Ireland will gather at the Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin for a day dedicated to creativity, confidence and careers in media. TY Media Day 2026, developed by Learning Waves in partnership with Coimisiún na Meán, built around the theme Learn | Inspire | Connect, the day will bring together media professionals, young creators and industry leaders to share their experiences and help students explore the many paths available in today’s media landscape.
Learning From the Voices Behind the Mic
The day will be hosted by Rebecca Shekleton, presenter of 98FM’s Big Breakfast and an experienced broadcaster and podcaster. Rebecca will guide students through a packed programme of conversations, panels and interactive sessions designed to open doors to the media industry. Students will hear from Alex Rowley, breakfast news anchor with SPIN1038 and SPIN South West, who will share his journey into broadcasting and what it’s really like working in radio today. Niamh Hodnett, Online Safety Commissioner at Coimisiún na Meán, will also speak about staying safe online and how young people can navigate the digital world responsibly while creating content.
Real Stories from Young Creators
A highlight of the day will be hearing directly from young voices already finding their place in media. Content creator and film graduate Cian Stanley will talk about storytelling, creativity and the importance of authenticity online, while speaker Shonagh O’Sullivan will challenge students to think about identity and social media through her powerful message: Who are we really behind the selfie? Students will also hear from TY participants who have spent time in radio stations across the country, sharing what they’ve learned and how the experience helped them discover new interests and skills.
Creativity, Confidence and Finding Your Own Path
TY Media Day will also explore how creativity can support confidence and wellbeing. Kwasie Boyce, Director of MAD Youth Theatre in Dundalk, will speak about finding purpose through creativity and how the arts can help young people express themselves and look after their mental health. Meanwhile, Hannah Taylor from Media Central will give students a behind-the-scenes look at the media industry and how brands and broadcasters work together.
Why Learning Waves Created TY Media Day
At Learning Waves, we work with Ireland’s independent radio sector to support training, development and new talent. TY Media Day is about opening the door to that industry and showing students that there are many different ways to build a career in media. Most importantly, it’s about encouraging young people to believe their voice matters.
Join Us
At the Lighouse Cinema, Dublin on the 29th April 2026 from 11am - 3pm. Students will learn, feel inspired and connect with people working in media today.
Register here:
https://www.jotform.com/build/260463293745361