For International Women’s Day 2026, the theme Give to Gain reminds us that progress happens when we share knowledge, create space and we listen.
Recently, Lynn, Helen and Rozena from the Jersey Audit Office sat down with members of the Jersey Youth Assembly (JYA) to talk about our Education Reform Programme report and the Government Executive’s response.
What we gave
We gave our time.
We explained how public audit works, shared what we had learned through our independent findings and created a structured space for discussion. We gave transparency, context and access to the scrutiny process.
What the JYA gave
We heard honest reflections about what success in education really feels like. We heard what inclusion means in practice. We heard where systems work – and where they don’t.
The young people in the room spoke with clarity, confidence and care. They challenged us and helped us see our work through their lived experience.
That conversation will strengthen the scrutiny process and was fed directly back to the Public Accounts Committee, in forming its own response to the Government Executive.
What we gained – together
Evidence from lived experience. A clearer understanding of impact. Honest insight. Challenge. Clear priorities for change.
We all came away better informed. Together we have created a new bridge between young people through the JYA – on matters that mean something to our Island’s young people, and the JAO – who are responsible for holding Government to account for public spending in Jersey.
The exchange not only opened up our dialogue with a new audience, it reminded us of something important: that accountability is not just about reports and recommendations. It’s about people.
So, this International Women’s Day, we recognise the power of collaboration – and the strength that comes from creating space for others to be heard.
That’s what Give to Gain looks like in action.
#IWD2026 #GiveToGain #PublicAudit #Jersey #YouthVoice
