Like many young boys, Portadown’s Matthew Matchett dreamt of becoming the next Ronaldinho Gaúcho or Messi but as time went on, focus shifted toward a career in IT. With his favourite subjects in school being Maths and IT, Matthew believed this path would suit him well. Everything changed when he turned 16 and began his volunteering journey with the YMCA.
Volunteering at the YMCA opened Matthew’s eyes to new opportunities and experiences he had never considered before. It allowed him to develop new skills, meet amazing people, and contribute to his community in meaningful ways.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Matthew recalls, “I’ve been fortunate to have been in and around the YMCA from as long as I can remember.
“As a young person I’m thankful to have the support of the Youth Workers at the YMCA”. The leader in Charge at the time was the late Terry Watson, Alongside him was Darryn Causby and they also had the support of my Mum Tanya who alongside the guys and the rest of the team, turned the centre into a home from home”.Â
The now more worldly Matthew now admits it wasn’t the pathway he set out on.
“At 18 I had completed an IT course with the SRC, however I was looking for fulfilment as I felt lost and without direction.
“Although I was capable in the field of IT, I didn’t get a feeling of enjoyment or love for the sector.
“I had been volunteering with the YMCA and once a part time job came up, I jumped right in. I’d seen the benefit in centre-based Youth Work through my own journey and I just felt compiled to give back.
“Truthfully at the start I was not considering Youth Work as a career path, however I went down the line of an OCN level 2 in Youth Work and I quickly realised that this was something I was passionate about”.
Through his volunteer work, Matthew discovered the importance of community engagement and the significant impact it can have on individuals and families. The YMCA provided a platform for him to grow, learn, and connect with others who shared similar values. This transformative experience has shaped his outlook on life and career.
Throughout his time at the YMCA, Matthew filtered into multiple roles, including extended provision worker, schools-based worker, youth support worker, and leader in charge.
Alongside these responsibilities, he focused on his professional development, earning his foundation degree and degree in community youth work through Ulster University.
In 2019, Matthew made the brave decision to step outside of his comfort zone and leave the YMCA to continue his development in a new role, venturing into Youth Work and Disability with the Cedar Foundation.
The next five years were instrumental in sharpening his skills, and the learning he gained from the young people, parents, and colleagues was immeasurable.
Leaving the YMCA in 2019 and moving into disability-focused youth work with the Cedar Foundation challenged me in new ways. It shows that growth often comes from pushing into the unknown, even when it feels daunting.
“I must mention my line manager during this time Gillian Boyd who empowered my own development as well as seeking out opportunities for me to develop professionally as well. From this I completed my level 3 and 5 in Leadership and Management and I loved every minute of my time at Cedar”.
However, Matthew’s pathway would led him back to where it all began, even if it was one he doubted.
“In late 2023 the role of Youth Work Manager came up at the YMCA again. I was reluctant to apply as although I had been in the Leader in Charge role previously, I hold a high level of respect for the role.
“I had seen Darryn, Billy Fyffe and most recently Nathan White in the role and the amazing work that the team had achieved. I was unsure if I could do it justice.
“However when the YMCA in Portadown comes calling, I feel complied to answer”.Â
Now present day, Matthew is back at the YMCA as Youth Work Manager, and what a year it’s been. The community at the YMCA, which includes our highly skilled staff team and the young people, has taught him so much.
His return has brought a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the team. Matthew has embraced the opportunity to lead and support both staff and young people, fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. The experiences he gained during his time away have only enriched his approach, allowing him to connect deeply with the local community.
One of the most memorable moments in Matthew’s career occurred during the journey in 2024 to the Remembrance Sunday Parade in London with a group of ten young men from the YMCA. For many of these young people, it was their first time on an airplane, let alone in a bustling city like London, where they were tasked with walking in the main parade.
“I felt an immense proudness for the YMCA and the young people who represented the centre to the highest standard. We took in the sights of London and ended up with a salute from Prince William! Something I’ll never forget”.
Offering advice to any young person considering youth work Matthew claims “the saying is true “if you love your job, you’ll never work a day in your life”. Enjoy the journey and be open and curious to what young people can teach you.
“I believe we are all equals in the learning process and that whether you’re a teacher, professor or doctor, we all have something to give that is valuable”.Â
Reflecting on his younger days, Matthew wittily jests “I certainly made the guys earn their money. I believe Darryn blames me for his hair loss! The soft skills that the team were instilling in me have held me in good stead to this day”.
Outside of work, Matthew admits to being a creature of habit. His week revolves around his family, spending quality time with his wife Jordan and daughter Freyja, which gives him a strong sense of purpose. In addition to family time, he is dedicated to going to the gym, where he pursues his passion for powerlifting—a sport that he truly enjoys.
“Youth Work can be a role that you never really switch off from, however when I’m in the gym I’m able to focus only on the exercise which allows me some mental respite”.
Through his commitment to both family and fitness, Matthew exemplifies how important it is to nurture personal passions alongside professional responsibilities.
While Matthew’s childhood dreams of becoming a football star may not have materialised, his journey with the YMCA has led him to a fulfilling path where he can contribute positively to his community.