On Tuesday, February 17, Ireland’s national organisation for LGBTQ+ young people, Belong To, appointed its new CEO Kieran O’Donovan. 

Originally from West Cork, O’Donovan boasts 18 years of experience working in creative and youth-culture spheres. His most recent role was as Head of Client Service at the B Corp-certified, youth-culture agency, THINKHOUSE. 

O’Donovan says that his move to the NGO sector stems from the belief that “advocacy needs to move at the speed of an agency.”

“By bringing the same strategic rigour and digital-first thinking we use in the commercial world, we can strengthen how we protect and empower LGBTQ+ youth in an increasingly complex environment,” he said.

He notes that “after 18 years of helping brands navigate youth culture, I’ve seen how quickly narratives can shift”. 

 

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His upbringing in Bandon, Cork, brings an important perspective on the “unique importance of local community and the role that regional youth groups and inclusive schools play,” he says. “While Belong To is a national organisation, our mission is to ensure that no matter where a young person lives – from West Cork to North Donegal – they feel a sense of belonging”. 

O’Donovan’s appointment as CEO marks the beginning of a new era for the NGO, bringing new perspectives and a creative backdrop to the organisation’s work for LGBTQ+ young people, in support services, education, and advocacy. The organisation was recently shortlisted for a major PTSB Community funding award. 

Belong To’s Chairperson, Patricia Carey, stated that “Kieran’s expertise is a game-changer for Belong To. At a time when young people need to feel more connected and supported than ever, Kieran’s ability to build authentic communities will ensure our message of inclusion reaches every corner of Ireland”. She affirms that, as the NGO’s new CEO, O’Donovan “brings the vision we need to make sure no LGBTQ+ young person feels they have to walk their journey alone.”