EA’s Director of Youth Services Awarded OBE

With a career spanning over 40 years, Arlene has had various roles across the youth sector. Reflecting on her remarkable career, Arlene shares that she was always passionate about working with and on behalf of children and young people. 

She said: 

‘It’s a privilege to support children and young people and witness first-hand the positive impact youth provision can have in their lives. Even after 40 years, it’s still an absolute joy to watch young people flourish and find their place outside of the traditional education system.”

During the past 25 years, Arlene has worked in various youth-focused roles for EA and the South Eastern Education and Library Board. In her current role, Arlene Kee is responsible for the strategic planning and delivery of youth services across Northern Ireland. EA’s Youth Service is a statutory provision which supports the personal and social development of over 105,846 children and young people aged 4-25 years, focusing on engaging those most marginalised. 

Arlene’s primary focus is to support to the overall educational attainment of young people and enable them to explore their values and beliefs. A core component of this is ensuring children and young people feel safe and are appropriately supported to have a voice in their own lives.  

Congratulating Arlene, Mervyn Storey, EA Chairperson said: 

“I am absolutely delighted to congratulate our Director for Youth Services, Arlene Kee, on being awarded an OBE in recognition of her service to children and young people.

“This honour reflects Arlene’s unwavering commitment to young people and the exceptional leadership she has shown throughout her career. As Director for Youth Services, she leads with vision, integrity and a deep belief in the power of youth work to transform lives.

“Her passion for ensuring that every young person has access to opportunities, support and a voice has helped shape and strengthen youth services across Northern Ireland.

“Beyond her leadership of EA Youth Service, Arlene has made a significant contribution to the wider youth sector, championing collaboration, innovation and the value of youth work at every level. She has been a tireless advocate for young people and for those who work alongside them, helping to build stronger partnerships and a more connected youth sector for the benefit of communities across the region.

“Those who know and work with her will recognise the dedication, compassion and determination that have characterised her approach throughout her career. The positive impact she has had on the lives of countless children and young people, as well as on colleagues and partners across the sector, stands as a testament to her lifelong commitment to young people and youth work.”