ⓒ Irish Times
Two young women from Tipperary, Claire Hennebry and Gillian Fogarty, have been awarded the prestigious Gaisce Gold Award by President Michael D. Higgins. The ceremony, held at Áras an Uachtaráin, celebrated the achievements of 73 young people nationwide. The Gaisce Award, Ireland’s national youth award, challenges young people aged 14-25 to reach their full potential through personal development and community involvement.
Hennebry and Fogarty’s accomplishments are a testament to the program’s impact. Participants undertake diverse challenges, from mastering new languages and conquering challenging hikes to volunteering in their communities and developing leadership skills. This year’s awardees collectively dedicated over 21,000 hours to personal growth and community service.
President Higgins’ address highlighted the awardees’ dedication and the transformative power of the Gaisce program. He lauded their commitment to personal growth, community engagement, and their role in creating a more inclusive society. The President emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for all young people, regardless of background, to participate in such rewarding endeavors. The event also served as a call to action, looking towards the 40th anniversary of Gaisce next year and a continued commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for all young people in Ireland.
The Gaisce Gold Award stands as a symbol of dedication and personal achievement, reflecting the values of community involvement and personal growth. The contributions of Claire Hennebry and Gillian Fogarty, along with their fellow awardees, serve as an inspiration to young people across Ireland.
