Child Talks 2026

Dáithí (16)

Dia dhaoibh! Is mise Dàithì Ó Grádaigh, agus tá mé sé bliana déag d’aois.

I am a passionate archer, an enthusiastic rugby player, and I am currently working on Saturdays on a farm). I love all things outdoors, especially water sports, and I enjoy keeping active and trying new things.

One of my greatest passions is promoting our native language, Gaeilge, and encouraging young people to embrace it, take pride in it, and keep it alive for future generations.

I am a sociable and outgoing person who loves meeting new people, spending time with my friends, and, of course, enjoying a good old sing-song! I believe in making the most of every opportunity, having fun, and sharing my love for Irish culture and language with others.

Cassie (17)

Hi There! My name is Cassie Lambe, I am 17 years old and from County Donegal. I am passionate about politics and sport. In my free time I enjoy going on a walk, playing a bit of sport or meeting with my friends for a cup of coffee. 

At Child Talks 2026, I will be talking about my experiences of playing Camogie from a young age but the challenges I have faced and overcame over the past 12 years ! I also will be talking about the lessons I had to learn that led me to my passion for politics. I hope that my speech can show the importance of showing up for yourself, your team and your community.

James (17)

Hi! My name is James and I am 17. I’m from Newtownmountkennedy in Co. Wicklow. I love reading fantasy books, swimming, musicals, writing, learning languages and talking to people!

At Child Talks 2026 I will be talking about an issue which affects many, yet so few know it for what it truly is, I was diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder when I was 16 but I have had it for far longer. I have no shame over this anymore, but things were once different. OCD is a genuine disorder which causes serious issues for the sufferer and seeing so many people treat your issues as if they are nothing really affects you. I hope to spread awareness about what OCD is and how sufferers shouldn’t be afraid to speak up about it. See you in November!

Ailbhe (17)

Hi! My name is Ailbhe McGarry. I live in Kilcock, Co. Kildare. I really enjoy music, politics and skateboarding.

 I’m going to be talking about how being a part of the LGBTQ+ community changed my perspective on myself and the people around me, and the importance of kindness. I hope that my story empowers people of all ages to simply be kinder to those around them, no matter what they might think!

Stacey (15)

Hello! My name is Stacey and I am passionate about all things STEM. I especially enjoy exploring artificial intelligence, coding and healthcare technology, and I love turning ideas into projects that could make a real difference. Through my STEM journey, I’ve had the opportunity to take part in science exhibitions such as Stripe YSTE and SciFest, develop my own health tech projects and learn from people working in different areas of science and innovation.

I’m excited to be part of OCO Child Talks and to share my experiences, hopefully inspire other young people to explore STEM, and show that you don’t have to wait until you’re older to start creating and making an impact.

Kaleb Finn

My name is Kaleb and I recently turned 18. I first did child Talks last year in 2025. I live in a small town in Kildare and spoke about the lack of youth spaces available to us. I felt quite passionate about this because there is no where in my town where I could hang out. I’m very happy to return to child talks again as a host.

Mark the Science Guy

Scientist and Broadcaster, Mark Langtry, aka Mark the Science Guy, will host Child Talks.

Mark is the Head of Science at Explorium – Ireland’s National Science Centre. A Theoretical Physicist by background, Mark is a researcher, broadcaster and award-winning educational creator & producer of live educational stage shows and engaging STEM experiences, exhibitions & media.

As a former international athlete, Mark is driven by a passion to ignite the curiosity in people of all ages and to provide everyone with the resources, opportunities and tools to develop their talents and abilities and achieve their potential.

DJ SEANEM

SEANEM is a Dublin-based 13 year old DJ and one of Ireland’s youngest emerging electronic music artists. Having performed across three stages at this year’s Electric Picnic, he has recently warmed up for dance music legends Paul Oakenfold, Roger Sanchez and Dave Clarke. His journey has taken him across Ireland, including the Fleadh Cheoil and Belfast, as well as internationally to Ibiza, Brussels, Mexico, Germany and the Amsterdam Dance Event. With a sound rooted in progressive, trance and house, SEANEM’s sets are all about energy, atmosphere and connecting with the crowd. He continues to push his sound and take it to new places.

Lottie O’Driscoll Murray

Lottie is a 15-year bilingual Irish/ English vocalist from Cork Ireland, who representant Ireland in the Junior Eurovision 2025. Known for her powerhouse voice ballad voice she has been described as the Irish Whitney Houston.

A standout performer at Cork City Hall. Lottie brings a sense of maturity, and her powerful voice to every performance. Equally at home busking on the streets or to fronting a full orchestra.

Repertoire: Ballads Irish contemporary

ReelÓg

ReelÓg is Music Generation Carlow’s junior traditional Irish music ensemble, bringing together 15 talented young musicians who are passionate about exploring and celebrating trad. music from Ireland and beyond . Directed by musician educators Paul Brett and Rachel Kavanagh, the ensemble rehearses weekly and maintains a busy annual concert schedule, performing at festivals, cultural events and concerts across Carlow and nationally. The group is known for their energy, creativity and distinctive approach to traditional Irish music. ReelÓg have collaborated with acclaimed musicians including Pádraig McGovern, Clare Sands and Jason Turk, gaining valuable experience and inspiration from these musical encounters. As they continue to develop their skills and confidence as performers, ReelÓg are making their mark as an exciting new generation of traditional Irish musicians, bringing their own unique style and youthful spirit to every performance.

DTC Allstars Hurricanes

The DTC Allstars Hurricanes are a talented team of young female athletes from one of Ireland’s longest-running competitive cheerleading clubs. Competitive cheerleading combines gymnastics, acrobatics, stunting, tumbling and dance, requiring strength, skill, dedication and teamwork.

At DTC Allstars, we empower young girls through sport, helping them build confidence, form lasting friendships and reach their full potential in a supportive environment.

In April 2027, the Hurricanes will travel to Orlando, Florida, to compete at The Allstar World Championship, proudly representing their club and Ireland on the international stage.

We are delighted to welcome the Hurricanes to Child Talks, celebrating the power and potential of young people across Ireland.