RTÉ stars and Ireland AM television coming to Laois Ogra Live Well expo
Laois schools gathering in Mountmellick for amazing expo celebrating young mental health
Ireland AM and special guests will join 2,000 Laois schools students and attendants at the county’s annual Ógra Live Well EXPO 2026 this November.
Guests speakers include architect and environmentalist Duncan Stewart and Portarlington psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy, best as RTE’s Operation Transformation expert.
The expo, aimed at “equipping youth with strong mental health habits” is a junior version of the award winning Laois Live Well Expo for older people in Portlaoise.
Attended by secondary students as well as 5th and 6th class pupils, the day includes lots of prize giveaways and interviews and talks interacting with the students.
It is proudly hosted again this year by Mountmellick Community School, who have put the call-out for community groups and services to take a stand at it.
Frances Kerry-La Rosa is Deputy Principal.
“We are absolutely delighted to host the Live Well Expo once again, with Laois Volunteer Centre and Healthy Ireland at Laois County Council.
“While academic achievement is hugely important, we firmly believe that education is about much more than the classroom. Student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, because young people need the right support, encouragement, and a positive environment to thrive.
“We warmly welcome all primary and post-primary schools across Laois, Offaly and Kildare, as well as organisations and services that support young people,” she said.
She said last year was “a tremendous success”. See photos of the 2025 expo below.
“We had over 50 exhibitors and fantastic entertainment from both visiting performers and our own students. This year promises to be even bigger and better, with Ireland AM broadcasting live from 7 am to 10 am and Midlands Radio 3 from 12 to 3pm. There will be entertainment from cultural groups, school bands, choirs and dance schools.
“Supporting young people's mental health and wellbeing has never been more important. Events like the Ógra Live Well Expo bring schools, families, organisations and the wider community together, helping young people discover the supports, services and opportunities available to them.
“We are incredibly proud to provide a platform for that conversation and to showcase the fantastic work being done to help our young people live well and reach their full potential. We are looking forward to making a difference,” Ms Kerry-La Rosa said.
Community and voluntary groups are being invited to take any of over 50 stands at the event.
Ógra Live Well Expo 2026 will take place on Wednesday, November 18 from 9 am to 3.30 pm. The exhibitors will be treated to a free lunch, and are asked to attend to arrive from 7am to be set up by the opening at 9am.
Exhibitors are also also asked to wear non-marking soled footwear as the expo takes place in the newly floored sports hall. They will have help to set up from a team of eager students.
To register a spot as an exhibitor, Caitriona Ryan, Manager, Laois Volunteer Centre - [email protected] or by phone on 087 24 99 659, or Frances Kerry - La Rosa, Deputy Principal, Mountmellick Community School ,0879161924, [email protected]