In an era where leadership and personal development are more crucial than ever, LIFT Ireland is making significant strides in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Founded by Joanne Hession, LIFT Ireland stands as a beacon of innovation and personal growth. The organisation is dedicated to enhancing leadership skills across Ireland using a structured and reflective approach that promises to uplift individuals and communities alike.

The Birth of Lift Ireland
Joanne Hession's journey to establishing LIFT Ireland is a tale of passion and purpose. Having traversed various professional landscapes, from entrepreneurship to international aid work, Joanne has always had a keen eye for leadership development. Inspired by her own experiences and a pivotal leadership program she encountered in Paraguay, Joanne was motivated to bring a similar concept to Ireland to foster positive change.

About LIFT Ireland and Its Program
LIFT Ireland operates on a simple, yet powerful premise: leadership begins with self-leadership. The program entails participants engaging in weekly sessions, where they reflect on their actions and personal growth. This initiative is not just for corporate arenas but is also extended to schools, creating an unprecedented ripple effect of leadership acumen across different age groups.

The beauty of the program lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Participants meet in small groups to discuss and reflect on various core values such as integrity, respect, empathy, and accountability. This reflective practice helps individuals course-correct their behaviours, thus enhancing their self-awareness and leadership qualities. Schools have adapted this model by empowering older students to facilitate sessions for younger classmates, reinforcing peer-to-peer learning and leadership.

The Wider Vision and Call for Support
LIFT Ireland's vision stretches beyond schools and workplaces; it seeks to blanket the entire nation with leadership excellence. With a focus on personal integrity and values, the organisation envisions a future where better leadership ushers in improved decision-making, community cohesion, and societal wellbeing.

However, such ambition requires support. LIFT Ireland, though a social enterprise, needs funding to extend its outreach, especially to underfunded schools. Despite the impressive reach of over 140,000 participants, Joanne Hession emphasises the need for more resources to further break barriers and expand LIFT Ireland's impact.

Why We Need LIFT Ireland in Our Schools
Incorporating LIFT Ireland’s program into schools is critical. By doing so, we lay the groundwork for the next generation of leaders who are not only aware of their potential but are also equipped to harness it. Our young people deserve the tools to navigate life's complexities with confidence and clarity. This program provides exactly that by fostering a culture of reflection and continuous improvement.

Take Action
To truly realise the powerful vision Joanne Hession and LIFT Ireland hold, community support is vital. Schools, businesses, and individuals can all play a role. Whether by integrating these leadership programs into education systems or supporting through sponsorships and resources, there are numerous ways to help.

For interested parties, LIFT Ireland is actively seeking partners to help carry the torch of leadership development further. Sponsorship opportunities are available, particularly for upcoming initiatives like the large training summit planned for 2026.

Conclusion
LIFT Ireland is on a transformative journey, poised to inspire and prepare the leaders of tomorrow. As Joanne Hession puts it, all the problems in our world stem from human behaviour, and by promoting self-leadership, we open the door to a more harmonious and capable society. Let’s support this incredible mission and ensure a future where integrity and leadership are at the forefront. To learn more or get involved, reach out to Lift Ireland today and become part of this powerful movement and possibly join a roundtable.