Paul from Belfast, Ireland

Hi my name is Paul McKinstry, I have worked as a youth worker and the director of a project called Challenge for Youth based in Belfast, N.Ireland for the last 25 years. The organisation used adventure learning to support young people coming from disadvantaged communities and family backgrounds. I have a degree in Informal and Community Education and a range out outdoor qualifications.

I believe strongly in the power of the outdoors as an effective tool to build relationships with young people which will support and challenge them to both learn and aspire for positive change. I have been involved in designing a range of personal development programmes, leadership training and camps which make use of the approaches of 'adventure learning' and 'informal education'.

I have recently established a new organisation called JourneyFree, aimed at helping young people and families '.....explore their way'. (www.journeyfree.co.uk).

I am married to Louise and have two daughters Eve (17) and Ana (14) and a dog called Rudi. Free time is spent heading off in the motorhome, canoe on roof with the camera and guitar on board. A bit of fishing, outdoor cooking and a nice glass of wine - the joy of the outdoors!!!

Really looking forward to exploring ideas and best practice from across Europe on the Momentum Centres of Excellence programme.

Paul