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At Ulster University, our mission is to be a driving force for positive change in the North-West region. We are connected to the community, fostering a rich cultural landscape, and creating lasting impact.
Ulster University isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a vital part of the North West’s heartbeat. We believe in the potential of this region and are deeply invested in its people. Through our widening access initiatives, we’re bringing real benefits to local communities—from grassroots sports to international festivals, and everything in between.
Our partnerships with organisations such as the Ryan McBride Foundation, City of Derry Rugby Club, and the Manchester United Foundation demonstrate our commitment to empowering youth through sport and education.
The Ryan McBride Foundation, founded in memory of the late Derry City footballer, is dedicated to supporting, assisting, and inspiring young football players to achieve their full potential.
Martin Doherty, Project Co-ordinator, The Ryan McBride Foundation describes how partnership links with Ulster University is an integral part of helping young people live more active and healthier lifestyles.
Martin said: “The support from Ulster University has allowed us to do cross-border community camps across Derry & Donegal so we are able to impact more kids and families in the local area. We are more than just a football camp, we are all-inclusive, and through our professional coaches, we increase social skills and make memories of the kids. You can see the benefit, kids are healthier, more active, more confident, aware of their mental health and nutrition, which impacts our local communities and is what the Ryan McBride foundation is all about.”
Our partnership with the City of Derry Rugby Club has brought new energy to our summer camps. Garreth Harvey, Convenor, City of Derry Rugby club reflects:
“We’ve run the summer camp at the City of Derry Rugby club for a number of years, but having Ulster University partner with us has been tremendous, being able to use their branding as we advertise has given us a bit of gravitas. There has been a great buzz in handing out the t-shirts and using the new equipment, the feedback from the kids has been great. At the heart of it all, the kids are developing core skills which will stand them in good stead, in terms of work, relationship building, winning and losing, but ultimately to giving it a try and developing a love of the sport.”
The Manchester United Foundation uses football to engage and inspire young people to build a better life for themselves and unite the communities in which they live.
Matthew Lewsley, Manchester United Foundation Outreach Manager said: “Ulster University has been working in partnership with Manchester United Foundation for the past four years with the aim to inspire and raise the aspirations of young people within Derry~Londonderry.
“Over the past number of years, the Foundation and Ulster University has engaged thousands of young people across Derry~Londonderry to deliver educational and community activities throughout the year. As the partnership continues to grow, we hope to engage with more young people and their families in the north west.”
At Ulster University, our campus is more than just a place of study—it’s a hub for activities that benefit the North West community. We pride ourselves on the strong relationships we’ve built with local schools and organisations, and we’re committed to making a difference.
