Within The B!G Idea mentoring programme today we had the pleasure of speaking with Donnacha Neary, Managing Director of Sonica. Sonica is a Dublin-based construction company, and we were delighted to host our B!G Idea Showcase there last May. Donnacha shared his thoughts on creativity, mentoring students, and supporting the next generation of innovators.
Creative skills are incredibly important at secondary school level. They build confidence and help students find their voice. Many people think technology is the main driver of progress. However, that’s not true. Ideas drive progress. Technology simply supports those ideas. People create ideas — not machines. Therefore, encouraging creativity at school helps develop future leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. When students learn to think creatively, they also learn to express ideas and solve problems. That’s why fostering creativity at second level is vital for the future of innovation and development.
I strongly believe in what I call “sending the elevator back down.” For me, mentoring means sharing the lessons I’ve learned throughout my career and life. Over the past 25 years in business, I’ve gained valuable experience — not just professionally, but socially and personally too.
Mentoring allows me to bring others along that journey. Even small insights or advice can make a difference. By sharing knowledge, we help young people grow in confidence and capability. That’s hugely important for the development of students today.
The B!G Idea mentoring programme focuses on Transition Year students. At this stage, students are discovering who they are and what interests them. It’s a fantastic age to introduce mentoring. You see creativity, collaboration, and leadership emerging naturally. Students begin identifying roles within teams — leadership roles, research roles, and creative roles.
As a mentor, I loved being part of that energy. I could offer guidance, share experience, and give a gentle steer when needed. Most importantly, I saw how much the students enjoyed the process. It was rewarding for them and equally rewarding for me.
The most important aspect for me is knowing that my input was heard and valued. When I mentored projects related to the housing crisis, I saw students incorporate my feedback into their designs and concepts. Seeing my advice reflected in their work was incredibly reassuring.
At the same time, their passion and collaboration stood out. They had the courage to push their ideas forward and remain open to guidance. Watching that growth and receptiveness was one of the most rewarding parts of mentoring.
Absolutely. I’ve always been an ideas-driven person. That mindset pushed me to start my own business and continue exploring new concepts every day.
If I had access to a programme like The B!G Idea at school, it could have accelerated my journey. Programmes that nurture creativity, innovation, and collaboration are invaluable.
For dreamers and innovators, having structured support and access to mentors makes a huge difference. I would have loved that opportunity.
Yes, I really enjoyed the mentoring process. Although technology doesn’t create ideas, the platform used by The B!G Idea made communication easy and efficient. The interface was clear and user-friendly. I could leave feedback quickly, track projects, and stay connected with students.
The support from the team was excellent. Communication was professional and friendly throughout. Overall, the experience was smooth, engaging, and very enjoyable.
Yes — without hesitation. If you’re passionate about giving back, mentoring is a powerful way to do it. You get the chance to support the next generation of innovators and leaders. Personally, I found it hugely encouraging. I saw creativity, ambition, and determination in these students. It reassured me that the future is in good hands. We may not have passed the baton yet, but the next generation is ready. They have the ideas, the confidence, and the creativity to move forward.
Be part of The B!G Idea journey and become a mentor.
Help support the next generation of creative thinkers and innovators across Ireland.
