As a proud care-experienced young person, Travis Walsh has drawn on his Columban journey to grow into an inspiring classroom leader. Find out how his time on a Columba 1400 Young People’s Leadership Academy, helped him develop his confidence, find purpose, and help others to do the same.

At just 18 years old, Travis Walsh is already making a difference in the lives of others. A passionate advocate for young people with additional needs, Travis currently works as a Primary Early Years Support Assistant in Dundee – a role he secured after drawing on his Columba 1400 Young People’s Leadership Academy (YPLA) experience in his job interview.

Two years ago, Travis took part in a Columba 1400 YPLA made possible through investment from The Hunter Foundation and Dundee City Council. Their support enabled the Dundee Champs – a group of 12 care-experienced young people who champion and support others in their community – to take part in a Columban experience.

When Travis first heard about Columba 1400, he wasn’t sure what to expect.

“We were told it would be a life-changing experience. And we all just went, ‘mm hmm’,” he recalls with a laugh. “We mainly signed up because it meant a week away out of school!”

But the Leadership Academy, including the residential element on the Isle of Skye, would turn out to be one of the most transformative experiences of his life.

Discovering Teamwork and Purpose

One experience, in particular, left a lasting impression.

“The search and rescue really stood out to me,” says Travis. “It made me want to do first-aid courses. Working together as a team to help someone just hit me – it was fun, but you were also helping. That really stuck.”

He still remembers the hilarity when he got literally stuck in the mud during the exercise.

“I was up to my hips in mud! Everyone was laughing – not me at first – but then I did too. It’s one of those memories that stays with you.”

Lessons for Life

What Travis learned during his time with Columba 1400 continues to guide him every day.

“I learned that nothing can bring me down except for me…and I shouldn’t let that happen.”

Now in his support assistant role, he passes that same message on to the children he supports.

“I tell them the same thing – if something happens that could put you down, remember you’re the only one who can lift yourself back up again.”

A New Sense of Direction

Travis believes his experience at Columba 1400 gave him the confidence to take on opportunities he would never have considered before.

“It’s [the support assistant role] something I would never have done before Columba 1400. I just wouldn’t have thought I could do it. But now I’m planning to go to America in 2026 to work at a summer camp for children. I’d never have had the confidence for that before.”

Giving back

Travis continues to make a difference locally through his work with the Dundee Champs Board. He helped to design a new primary school outreach programme that introduces younger children to the Champs and the support that is available to them. He and his group also developed a transitions programme for primary schools across Dundee and led a Celebrations of the Dundee Care Experienced community event earlier this year.

“It has been challenging, but it’s about perseverance and keeping going even when it’s hard,” he says.

Looking back

Reflecting on his journey, Travis is clear about the difference Columba 1400 has made.

“It completely changed my life – completely. I don’t think I’d be the same person if I hadn’t gone.”

To find out more about our Young People’s Leadership Academies visit this page or email us on [email protected]