Our Mission, Strategy, Ethos and Core Values
Learn more about our mission, strategy, ethos, and values - the how and why of Fighting Words!
Our Mission
Our aim is to help children and young people, and adults who did not have this opportunity as children, to discover and harness the power of their own imaginations and creative writing skills.
At its core, Fighting Words is also about something much broader and more inclusive.
It is about using the creative practice of writing and storytelling to empower and strengthen our children and teenagers – from all backgrounds – to be resilient, creative and successful shapers of their own lives.
Strategy
Our five-year strategy for 2025-2029 was developed by the board in consultation with participants, partners, volunteers, staff, and others. It sets out the priorities and directions for our creative writing programme for the coming years. We are excited for what lies ahead as we seek to increase the impact of our work.
Our Ethos
At Fighting Words, we love stories and creative writing. We work with children, young people and adults who haven’t had a chance to write.
- Creativity is unbound, with the spaces and scope for storytelling, imagination and invention.
- Joy and positivity are fundamental, with an emphasis on self-esteem, empowerment, confidence, and affirmation. It is always child/participant centred, and child/participant led.
- Available to all, free of charge at point of access, with an inclusive and participative approach focussed on equity and diversity.
- It is a community endeavour with volunteer mentors, partners, and staff working collaboratively.
Our Core Values
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Creativity and imaginative. We are dreamers and storytellers.
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Positivity and excitement. We always look on the bright side and treat everyone we work with positivity, unconditionally.
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Audacious and curious. We unlock the power of creativity and engage on difficult issues.
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Participative and collaborative. We are all about people, engagement, partnership, and community.
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Equity and fairness. We want equality, dignity, and the same opportunities for all.
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Supportive and nurturing. We want to listen and give everyone a voice.
Young author at work
Why Fighting Words?
Click to watch co-founders Roddy Doyle and Seán Love discuss how Fighting Words came to be and to see our Dublin centre in action
How Fighting Words?
Join Fighting Words co-founder Seán Love for a fun and engaging TEDx talk about how we do what we do - and why.
Be a Part of Fighting Words!
- Volunteer: If you would like to help us to help children, young people and adults with additional needs to harness their imaginations and creative writing skills, go to our Volunteer Hub
- Donate: Support our work by visiting our Donations page
