Technological University Dublin, Yugo and THINKHOUSE Launch the Fourth Year of the Breakthrough Scholarship

Today sees the launch of the 2024 Breakthrough Scholarship in association with Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), Yugo and THINKHOUSE. The scholarship provides the awarded candidate with a fee-free Masters at TU Dublin, accommodation for the academic year in Yugo, the leading global student housing operator, and an immersive, three months paid work experience at a leading independent marketing agency, THINKHOUSE. 

This is the fourth year of the game-changing scholarship that now sees over €100,000 being invested in creating opportunities for young, marginalised students who can now apply for the 2024 Breakthrough Scholarship, (closing date is 23rd of August 2024 at 6pm). To apply visit here.

Most recent data from the Institute Of Advertising Practitioners In Ireland (IAPI) 2023 census shows that the advertising industry has become more diverse over the last year, but it still doesn’t reflect the diversity of Irish society. The research shows that 68% of the marketing industry are from affluent classes (a decrease from 95% last year). People born outside Ireland make up 16% of the industry (a 1% increase on last year), while according to the most recent Census in 2022, 18% of people living in Ireland were born outside of Ireland. 4% of the workforce include people with a disability (an increase from 2% last year) compared to 13% of Irish society who have a disability. 

TU Dublin, Yugo and THINKHOUSE continue to run the scholarship programme in support of their shared goal to drive greater diversity and inclusion in the advertising industry. Speaking of the launch of the Breakthrough Scholarship 2024, the collaborating organisations had this to say:

Dr. Etain Kidney, head of school, marketing and entrepreneurship at Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), said, “At TU Dublin it's important to us that we remain steadfast in our commitment to diversity. Our campus is home to a diverse student-population and we want to continue to foster inclusivity in education. The Breakthrough Scholarship removes the financial and social barriers that often stifle ambitious students, curtailing their college life. I am delighted that this year we once again empower another remarkable student to break into the industry.”

Kieran O’Donovan, head of client service, THINKHOUSE said, “Being an advocate for equality and diversity is important for THINKHOUSE as a B-Corp and an SDG Champion. It’s also vital for our industry, we can’t resonate and connect with Irish society if we don’t represent it. It’s great to see that diversity in the industry has increased over the last twelve months. This scholarship is a tangible way THINKHOUSE is fuelling this positive change. I am proud that we continue it for the fourth year, and we will have the opportunity to impact another amazing student, give them a leg up, and then have the privilege of getting to work with them and be part of their professional growth and development.” 

Joe Persechino, chief operating officer, Yugo said, "As the leading global student housing brand and operator, diversity, equality, and inclusion are central to our mission of providing exceptional living experiences for our students. We are proud to support this important initiative in partnership with Thinkhouse and TU Dublin, offering free student housing near campus for the academic year. Through this, we aim to support and empower another talented young individual to thrive and live their best life."

Last year's awarded candidate was Ciarán Fogarty. The scholarship allowed Ciaran, an ambitious and driven student, to pursue his academic goals despite financial barriers. Through the scholarship he achieved a Masters Degree in Digital and Content Marketing in TU Dublin, and following his work experience has continued his career as an Insights and Strategy Executive at The Youth Lab, THINKHOUSE. 

Speaking about the scholarship, Ciarán said; “Without the Breakthrough Scholarship I don’t think I would have been able to continue my education and go on to do a masters which was always my dream. For anyone out there considering whether or not to apply - do it today. Not only did it afford me a very engaging and fun year doing my masters, it has made a huge difference to my career trajectory. I’m now employed full-time at THINKHOUSE so the scholarship has 100% course-directed my future.”

For more information or to apply for the 2024 Breakthrough Scholarship visit here.