It’s always an inspiring thing to see a gathering of Columban graduates, and the reactions they can elicit from those who have not yet had a Columban experience.

So it was on May 9th 2006, when Columban graduates and future participants gathered at the Merchants Hall in Edinburgh to share their experiences post-Columba.  Graduates of our Young People’s Leadership Academy, Head Teachers’ programme, Ambassadors’ Academy and previous graduates of the Gemini Project were all present alongside prospective participants in the Coracle Programme.  

We heard from Craig Mathieson of the journey that began on an Ernst and Young Gemini Project and has since taken in the South Pole, the North Pole and the set up of his inspirational Polar Academy initiative.  When some of the young people stood up and told their stories, it was obvious from the atmosphere in the room that we were witnessing the continuation of something unique and special, and that the tough times that these young people have endured have given them extraordinary potential.

We were delighted that representatives from our corporate partners, Standard Life and the Royal Bank of Scotland, could join us and get a chance to speak with Columban graduates.

At the gathering we also launched the new Columba 1400 website and Online Community, which we hope will give all our graduates an opportunity to support each other and network with others who have taken part in a Columban Academy.