Stepping Into Confidence: My Journey with AMBIT 2025

Rio Ferdinand Foundation Programme Coordinator, Dan Gorman, details his learning experiences following a learning exchange trip to the United States, funded by our partners International Fund For Ireland.

When I was selected to take part in AMBIT, a programme delivered in partnership with the International Fund for Ireland and the Washington Ireland Programme, I felt honoured but also hesitant. As a Project Coordinator at the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, I questioned what I could contribute alongside such a broad and experienced group of participants.

From the moment I arrived at Ballymascanlon for our induction, those doubts crept in again. I found myself surrounded by an incredibly diverse group from statutory agency professionals to community sector leaders each bringing their own wealth of knowledge and expertise. I wasn’t sure if I’d fit in, or if my voice would carry any weight in rooms like those we’d soon be stepping into across Boston and Washington D.C.

The study visit itself was packed with learning, conversation, and connection. We experienced everything from grassroots community visits in some of the most deprived areas to formal engagements like breakfast at the British Embassy. What stood out to me most across all these spaces was how welcome and respected we were regardless of our backgrounds, roles, or lived experiences.

Dan delivers a presentation during his visit to Boston, America.

A key moment for me was when I had the opportunity to mediate a session with Teen Empowerment in Boston. It was a full-circle moment. There I was on the other side of the world, with a different group of staff and young people but we were all focused on the same goal: empowering youth to shape a better future. That moment reminded me that the skills and experiences I’ve developed through my work with the Rio Ferdinand Foundation are not only relevant but valuable. I realised I had earned my seat at the table, just like everyone else. I owe a huge thank you to our CEO Gary for his guidance and encouragement in my role within the foundation.

“We were all focused on the same goal: empowering youth to shape a better future.”

This journey didn’t just build my confidence it gave me renewed purpose. I came back to Ireland with a deeper belief in myself and in the potential of the work we do with young people. Beyond the sessions and engagements, I also built a network of inspiring professionals who I now call great friends. These are people I know will support, challenge, and walk alongside me as we all continue to drive change in our respective communities. I believe that this experience has emphasised the importance of having great people around you and how we should endeavour to keep strong friendships both professionally and in a personal capacity.

My biggest takeaway? Put yourself out there. Don’t let doubt define you. We each bring something unique and important to the table, and when our goals and values align, amazing things can happen. Collaboration and diversity aren't just buzzword they're essential to building a more inclusive and progressive future, which I want to be part of.

“Collaboration and diversity aren’t just buzzwords. They’re essential to building a more inclusive and progressive future.”

I also want to thank The International Fund for Ireland for everything they do for this programme. Without them it would not be possible for visits like this.

I’m proud to have been part of AMBIT 2025, and even prouder of what lies ahead.