The Alchemy of working with young women

The alchemy of work with young women takes inspiration from the ancient transformative process of changing base metals into gold – a dangerous and exciting process that blends science and art. The alchemy of work with young women expresses the principles, methodology and transformative potential in working with young women. Tuning into and appreciating young women’s lives, using a gendered lens, is the central process of alchemy. The alchemist refers to the practitioner and alchemy is the blend of inspired wisdom and systematic deliberate approaches used with young women. Gold is created. Gold is globally recognised as being of high value, however, the true value of Gold in the Alchemy model is in achieving that which is important to, and defined by the young women themselves. Alchemy of work with young women has been born of feminist youth work practice in Northern Ireland, however, with central themes of empowerment, equality and collective action, has resonance across nations and disciplines.