In this episode of Kinia ag Caint, host Sara Judge is joined by Ciaran McGuinness from NTT Data and Marianne Checkley, CEO of Kinia, for a conversation on learning, community, and the role of technology in education. They explore why learning goes far beyond the classroom and how access to the right people, environments, and opportunities can shape a young person’s future. The discussion looks at how technology is changing education, while also highlighting why human connection, creativity, and strong relationships remain central to meaningful learning. Drawing on their own experiences across industry and education, Ciaran and Marianne share practical insights on supporting young people, building confidence, and creating more inclusive pathways into tech. This episode is a reminder that while tools and technology continue to evolve, it is people who make learning truly impactful. Things We Spoke About Learning beyond the classroomHow learning happens in homes, communities, and everyday life, not just within school walls. Keeping humans at the centre of educationWhy relationships, empathy, and human understanding still matter most, even as technology advances. The role of AI in learningThe potential for AI to support more personalised and creative learning, alongside concerns about over-reliance on technology. Access and opportunityThe importance of giving young people access to role models, networks, and experiences, not just information. Inclusion in STEM and techThe need to support underrepresented communities and ensure more young people can see themselves in future careers. Guest Details Ciaran McGuinness is a commercially minded and collaborative leader with a strong track record across IT consultancy, digital transformation, and innovation. At NTT DATA, he leads a major strategic account and works with multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex change within Tier 1 financial services. He is a firm believer that success comes from strong teams, shared ambition, and trust, rather than individual effort. Ciaran’s experience spans startups, education, NGOs, and global systems integrators, giving him a broad and practical perspective on leadership and problem solving. He brings a thoughtful, hands-on approach to his work, combining delivery excellence with a focus on long-term growth. He is particularly interested in the real-world application of AI, building meaningful relationships, and creating environments where both clients and colleagues can thrive. Marianne Checkley is CEO of Kinia, an education-focused social enterprise working to increase access to opportunity for children and young people across Ireland. With a strong background in social impact and education, Marianne has spent her career developing strategies that expand access to learning, particularly for those at risk of being left behind. Her work focuses on using digital technology and creative approaches to build inclusive, engaging learning environments that support real progression for young people. Before leading Kinia, Marianne was closely involved in initiatives such as iScoil, an online learning community designed to support early school leavers through flexible, project-based education. This experience continues to shape her approach to learning, with a focus on collaboration, creativity, and meeting learners where they are. At Kinia, she leads a national team working with schools, educators, and communities to deliver future-focused skills and learning opportunities. She is particularly passionate about addressing educational inequality, widening participation in technology, and ensuring that every young person has the chance to realise their potential. About Kinia Educational disadvantage has long been part of the story when it comes to inequality. Today, that story is evolving. As new careers, technologies, and ways of working continue to emerge, a new kind of divide is taking shape. It is not just about access to education, but access to awareness, opportunity, and aspiration. If young people do not see these pathways reflected in their homes or communities, it becomes much harder to imagine themselves in those futures. At Kinia, we work to change that. We support children and young people to explore what is possible, while empowering educators with the tools, skills, and confidence to inspire the next generation. By focusing on creative, future-focused learning, we help open doors that might otherwise remain out of reach. We believe that learning creates opportunity and that when young people are given the chance to engage, create, and imagine their future, it can change lives.
