Creating a better world one step at a time

A growing number of third-level students are dedicating their college years to social activism, from consent education to trans rights to safe spaces for Travellers. Here, we meet six of them

Anne-Marie Ward at the National University of Ireland Galway: ‘In general, university and the education system have not always been, and generally still aren’t, a safe and welcoming space for Irish Travellers.’ Picture: Andrew Downes

As the college year gets into full swing, there are some students for whom college is about more than lectures or parties – it is an opportunity to change the world through activism and kindness. From activities designed to foster awareness of environmentalism to issues around consent and trans rights, these young people have dedicated their time at university to building a better world.

Most of the activists featured in this article began campaigning because ...