Two President’s Award Leaders from Kildare celebrated at Gaisce’s Recognition Awards Ceremony

Two President’s Award Leaders from County Kildare were celebrated at Gaisce’s Recognition Awards Ceremony.

On Saturday, January 28, 2023, Gaisce – The President’s Award held a special Award Ceremony at Farmleigh House in Phoenix Park, County Dublin, in recognition of 34 President’s Award Leaders from all over Ireland who have graciously supported young people to achieve their potential.

This included Helen Farrell (KARE), Clare Molloy (Patrician Secondary School) from Kildare.

Gaisce’s Civic Merit Award honours President’s Award Leaders (PALs) who have supported young people to take part in the Gaisce programme for more than five years.

Speaking about the Awardees, Avril Ryan, Acting CEO of Gaisce – The President’s Award, said: "Gaisce are delighted to celebrate the work of our President’s Award Leaders.

"Their dedication to the principles and outcomes of the Gaisce programme ensures the continued value society places upon the personal development and wellbeing of young people and their achievements, whilst also promoting Gaisce’s vision that young people have every opportunity to dream big and fulfil their potential."

She continued: "For many young people a Gaisce Award is often the first time they receive any recognition for their achievements.

"A Gaisce Award recognises the skills, volunteering, leadership, and other qualities of Gaisce participants, talents that may never have been discovered and honed without their participation in this unique and holistic non-formal education Award."

Retiring PALs and PALs who mentored a Gold Awardee were also celebrated and commended for supporting and encouraging young people on their Gaisce journey. 

The ceremony was MC’d by comedian, writer and podcaster Julie Jay, and the guest speaker at the event was author and world-renowned immunologist and Professor of Biochemistry, Professor Luke O’Neill. 

Avril Ryan, Helen Farrell, and Chair of Gaisce – The President’s Award, John Cunningham. Pic by Maxwell Photography

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A special message from the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins was read by Chair of Gaisce – The President’s Award, John Cunningham.

It read: "The leadership of all of you has undoubtedly played a significant role in the success of the programme and the growth and development of the participants.

"The dedication and hard work that goes into the planning and execution of the Gaisce journey is given evidence in the distinguished achievements of the participants.

"It is with great pleasure and a sense of gratitude that I send my warmest congratulations and my sincere appreciation for your valued contribution to Gaisce."

Gaisce – The President’s Award is a personal development programme for young people which enhances confidence and wellbeing through participation in personal, physical, community and team challenges. 

Since its inception in 1985 over 300,000 young Irish people have completed a Gaisce Award, including former Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh and internationally renowned Irish actor Robert Sheehan.