What Makes a Man is a participatory arts programme working with teenage boys through creative writing, spoken word and performance. The project creates a supportive, peer-led space where young men can explore themes of identity, masculinity, belonging and emotional wellbeing, while developing confidence and their own creative voice.

The programme was first piloted in 2025 in Oberstown Children Detention Campus, led by spoken word artist Geoff Finan, an award-winning writer and performer known for his work with young people and in custodial settings. Working over a series of workshops, participants created original material that questioned and reimagined ideas of modern masculinity, culminating in a live sharing from the Festival in a Van stage.

Building on this foundation, the project continues to develop in 2026 in Edenderry, in partnership with Creative Lives and Youth Work Ireland Midlands. Workshops are facilitated by Dagogo Hart, a writer, performer and co-founder of the WeAreGriot collective, whose work explores identity, culture and contemporary lived experience. Through a structured programme of workshops, participants develop original spoken word and performance pieces, with a focus on expression, confidence and connection.

The programme continues to expand, with further delivery planned later this summer in Tullamore, supporting a growing network of young participants across the Midlands.

What Makes a Man demonstrates the power of creative practice as a tool for engagement and wellbeing — offering young men a space to reflect, communicate and be heard, while building confidence, empathy and a stronger sense of identity. Through public sharing and performance, the project also brings these voices into wider community conversation, challenging perceptions and creating meaningful connection.

Funded by the Arts Council