Belong To – LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland bids a fond farewell to CEO Moninne Griffith

After 10 incredible years leading our organisation, Belong To’s CEO Moninne Griffith has decided to move on to a new role. She leaves an incredible legacy at the charity after a transformative decade at the helm.

Speaking today, Moninne said: “After ten incredible years, I’ve made the decision to move on from my role as CEO of Belong To – LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland.

It’s been an honour to work alongside such an extraordinary team—staff, volunteers, board members and young people—united by a passion for equality, inclusion and social justice. Together, we’ve grown Belong To into a unique national organisation supporting LGBTQ+ children, young people and their families across Ireland.

I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. Thank you to everyone who has been an ally, supported and believed in our mission. Your partnership has been vital to our progress, and I’m so grateful for the impact we’ve made.

With a clear roadmap and Strategic Plan for the next few years, strong leadership across the board and senior leadership team, and unwavering support from our partners across Government, public bodies, corporate, community and individual donors, Belong To is in a strong position, and will continue to thrive.

I’m excited to share that I’ll be joining Community Foundation Ireland as Director of Social Impact, Donor Care and Grant-Making. This new role will allow me to continue championing social justice and environmental change, and to help shape the future of philanthropy for equality and thriving communities.

The work here at Belong To is far from complete. But I know that this team, under new leadership will continue on the mission. LGBTQ+ young people need Belong To and the youth services we support just as much today as they ever have.

I’m so proud of what I have achieved with the team, and I’ll carry these memories with me always. To the team, I would like to thank you for your trust, your support and your friendship. You’ve made this journey unforgettable, and I’m endlessly grateful.

While I’m moving on, my commitment to Belong To’s mission remains strong, and I look forward to seeing the continued impact for young people across the country.”

Patricia Carey, Chair of the Belong To Board of Directors said: “Moninne’s decision to step down as CEO marks the end of a remarkable chapter in our organisation’s journey. Her leadership over the past decade has been transformative—not only in growing the organisation, but in deepening and expanding our impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ young people across Ireland and creating a better country to grow up LGBTQ+.

The Board is deeply grateful for her vision, dedication and the legacy she leaves behind.

We will be working closely with Moninne and the senior management team to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition. Operations Director at Belong To, Derrie Murray will step into the role of Acting CEO during this period, and we are confident in his ability to lead with clarity and care.

I would like to thank the team for your continued dedication and for all that you do to make Belong To a place of hope, inclusion, and impact.

Together, we will continue to build on the strong foundation Moninne has helped create and continue her legacy on the mission to creating an Ireland where all LGBTQ+ young people are safe to shine and can confidently shape their futures.”

The recruitment planning process for the incoming CEO will begin shortly.