Championing student wellbeing: Meet James Sweeney, the first mdeducational foundation Ambassador

At mdeducational foundation, we’re committed to prioritising student wellbeing – and now, we’re continuing that mission by inviting members of our community to join us in championing a brighter future for young people.

We’re proud to introduce the mdeducational foundation Ambassador Programme – a new initiative designed to amplify our mission and connect with more young people, educators, and communities through advocacy and collaboration. Our Ambassadors are passionate individuals who share our commitment to improving student mental health and wellbeing across the UK and Ireland.

We’re delighted to welcome James Sweeney as the very first mdeducational foundation Ambassador. With a background in clinical work and research, as well as a deep commitment to student mental health, James brings both professional insight and lived experience to the role. His involvement with the U-WELL research project, by Atlantic Technological University and Ulster University, and his engagement with schools supported by us make him a natural fit to help champion mdeducational foundation’s mission.

Below, James shares what inspired him to take on the role, the work he’s already involved in, and why supporting student wellbeing matters now more than ever.

Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to becoming an ambassador for mdeducational foundation?

“My background is rooted in both clinical work and research, with a strong focus on mental health and wellbeing. Over the years, I have worked in various roles across charitable organisations and healthcare settings—from support worker to low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapist. This has given me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of individuals, including children with learning disabilities, adults facing addiction and homelessness, and people navigating complex mental health challenges.

My interest in mental health began early in life, shaped by a personal experience. In our final year of secondary school, my best friend struggled severely with his mental health. Despite my efforts to support him, long waiting lists and inadequate resources meant he didn’t receive the care he needed. After several suicide attempts, I saw first-hand how quickly someone’s mental health can deteriorate without timely support. It became clear to me that with the right guidance and interventions in schools, his story could have been different. That experience has stayed with me and continues to drive my commitment to student mental health.

I’m currently undertaking a PhD on the U-WELL project with ATU Donegal and Ulster University funded by Research Ireland. This research explores how the transition from secondary school to university affects students’ mental health across the island of Ireland, aiming to understand the key factors that influence wellbeing during this critical period.

My journey with mdeducational foundation began when I was introduced to Deirdre and the team. Learning about the charity’s mission—to support and empower students while promoting mental health awareness—immediately resonated with me. Our passions aligned naturally. I have visited schools both with and without their Wellbeing Leads and the contrast is striking. In schools supported by mdeducational foundation, students appear more open, emotionally aware, and supported. I have even witnessed students confidently using designated spaces to self-regulate and calm themselves—something that would have been unthinkable when I was in school. It was genuinely inspiring to see mental health being normalised and prioritised in such a way.

I am incredibly proud to be the first ambassador for mdeducational foundation and fully committed to championing their mission. It is a privilege to support an organisation making such a tangible impact on student wellbeing.”

Can you share a story that highlights your connection to mdeducational foundation?

“One of the most memorable moments that really deepened my connection to mdeducational foundation was a school visit I took part in through my work with ATU and the U-WELL project. We visited a school supported by mdeducational foundation, and I had the chance to engage directly with post-16 final year students. It was more than just a research opportunity—it became a platform for meaningful dialogue about mental health, education, and future aspirations.

What struck me most was the openness and honesty of the students. Many shared personal experiences and reflections, which not only highlighted the challenges they face but also the value of having support systems like those mdeducational foundation promotes. These personal connections reminded me exactly why this work matters—they’re the next generation, and they’re eager for tools, understanding, and hope.

The students’ positive response gave me a fresh perspective and renewed energy in my role as an ambassador. Their enthusiasm and willingness to engage showed the real, tangible impact mdeducational foundation is having on the ground. It’s moments like these that reaffirm why I’m so proud to be part of this mission.”

What does your role as an ambassador entail?

“My role as an ambassador for mdeducational foundation is both flexible and meaningful, allowing me to contribute in ways that align with my own academic and professional commitments. At its core, my role involves promoting and supporting mdeducational foundation’s mission raising awareness about the vital work we do to support student mental health and wellbeing.

This can take many forms. I might speak at schools, visit mdeducational foundation funded programmes, or use my social media platforms to share and advocate for their initiatives. I’ve already had the privilege of visiting some of the schools we support, where I’ve met incredible Wellbeing Leads and students who are directly benefiting from our work.

In addition to outreach, I bring a research perspective to the role. Through my work with ATU and the U-WELL project, we have partnered with mdeducational foundation to explore the transition to university and its impact on student mental health. This collaboration allows me to offer evidence-based insights that help shape mdeducational foundation’s direction, ensuring we remain responsive to the evolving needs of post-16 students.

Overall, it’s a dynamic and rewarding role that allows me to contribute in a meaningful way to a cause I care deeply about.”

What do you hope to get from this role?

“What I hope to gain from this role is both personal and professional growth, as well as the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to lasting positive change. As the first ambassador, I see this as a chance to help shape and define the role—creating space to develop new skills in advocacy, public engagement, and collaboration.

A key aim for me is to build strong relationships with the funded schools, Wellbeing Leads, and students. By understanding their lived experiences and perspectives, I can better represent their voices and advocate more effectively on their behalf.

The collaboration between mdeducational foundation and the U-WELL research project, which I’m currently involved in through ATU and Ulster University, is a perfect example of how this partnership can be mutually beneficial. Through the foundation’s support and school connections, we’ve been able to reach students and staff across the island of Ireland. Our research focuses on the transition from secondary school to higher education and the mental health challenges that come with it—ultimately aiming to inform early intervention strategies and long-term support systems.

Overall, I hope this role allows me to grow as both a researcher and advocate, while contributing to mdeducational foundation’s mission of supporting student wellbeing in a practical and lasting way.”

What support has been offered to you as an ambassador for mdeducational foundation?

“The support I have received from mdeducational foundation as an ambassador has been outstanding. From the very beginning, Deirdre and the entire team have been incredibly welcoming and made sure I had everything I needed to feel confident and prepared in the role.

I was given a thorough induction, which really helped me understand the foundation’s mission and values and equipped me to speak about our work with clarity and confidence. They also provided helpful resources and support around social media, which has been invaluable in helping me communicate and engage with the wider community effectively.

What I really appreciate is the ongoing support. The team is always available for guidance, and they check in with me regularly to make sure I feel supported and informed. It is clear they genuinely value their ambassadors and want to see us thrive in the role.”

What kind of activities have you been involved in so far?

“So far, one of the main activities I have been involved in through my role as ambassador is the ongoing collaboration between mdeducational foundation and the U-WELL research project, which I am part of through ATU and Ulster University. The foundation has played a key role in facilitating connections with secondary school Principals, Wellbeing Leads, and, most importantly, the students who are participating in our research.

This partnership has allowed us to gain valuable insights into the mental health and wellbeing of post-16 students as they transition to higher education. It’s been a privilege to engage directly with school communities and see the impact of the foundation’s support first-hand.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue this work by visiting more schools, hosting workshops, and taking part in assemblies. These activities are not only an opportunity to share knowledge and raise awareness, but also to listen and learn from students themselves, ensuring their voices continue to shape the direction of our work.”

Do you have a favourite personal wellbeing tip you can share with us?

“Yes, never underestimate the power of simply taking a few deep breaths and grounding yourself to help self-regulate, especially when it comes to anger and anxiety. Try the steps below when overwhelmed.

4-7-8 Breathing.

1. Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 seconds.
2. Hold your breath for 7 seconds.
3. Exhale gently through your mouth for 8 seconds.

While you are breathing, focus on pressing your feet into the ground—feel the floor beneath you. This helps calm your mind, reduce stress, and get you back in the present moment. Try it anytime you feel overwhelmed or need to refocus!

Bonus tip: Ensure you spend time with those you love and/or doing the things you love and enjoy!”

Thank you James for the interview and welcome to the team! We can’t wait to continue our work together and create a brighter future for our young people!

Championing student wellbeing together with mdeducational foundation

At mdeducational foundation, we believe that creating meaningful, lasting change in student wellbeing starts with passionate individuals working together, and James is a powerful example of that in action. We’re incredibly proud to have him as our first ambassador, helping to champion our mission and bring student mental health to the forefront of education.

If you’re inspired by James’s story and share our vision for a brighter future for young people, we’d love to hear from you. Head over to Our Ambassadors page to learn more about becoming a volunteer ambassador and make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay up to date with the work we’re doing across the UK and Ireland.

Let’s keep prioritising student wellbeing, together.