Arts, Culture & Festivals Shortlist 2025

For over 25 years, John has been at the heart of the Clondalkin Youth Band, giving his time, talent, and kindness to help others. As one of the senior trumpets, he has patiently guided many young players throughout the years, always encouraging them and making sure they feel confident and included. John has also led the band as field commander at many field shows, most memorably in Holland in 2017 when he proudly piloted the band to a Gold Standard Award. John frequently supports our veterans in Oglaigh na hEireann as a volunteer bugler for ceremonial events throughout the year. His dedication to music is also seen in his involvement with the Coláiste Bride Musical Committee. John’s journey with the school musical’s began in 2009 when, as a Transition Year student, where he first took part in Grease, performing in the live band that brought the show to life. From that moment, he has been a constant presence and source of guidance on the school’s musical committee for productions including Fame, Hairspray, All Shook Up and most recently when he stepped into the role of Musical Director for our production of SIX!. He is in the depths of the current production, Sister Act Jr, due to showcase in January 2026. John is also a key member of the school’s Board of Management and Finance Committee, contributing his talents and dedication to the school community and not just the countless productions over the years. When he’s not helping others get ready for the stage, John’s other passion is helping people learn about and stay safe on the Inland waterways of Ireland. John currently holds the position as National Honorary Treasurer, Dublin Branch Chairman as well as Treasurer for the 107.B Canal Boat Restoration SIG. John is well known and respected on the Irish waterways for encouraging and promoting their use, most recently with reigniting the Green and Silver Canal’s Challenge which successfully (and against all odds) delivered 15 boats into Grand Canal Dock. John has been a dedicated part of St. Benedict’s Youth Club for most of his life. Having first joined as a young child, he grew into the role of Junior Leader at just 16 years old and has continued volunteering ever since. Now at 32, John has given over 16 years of consistent service to the club.. He is a true hands-on volunteer, always ready to help, and approaches every responsibility with professionalism and care which is paramount due to the complex socio demographic of the children.

Tommy Keogh is well known in the Clondalkin area and has worked tirelessly as a community activist and volunteer for over 60 years making him a true pillar of Clondalkin. His remarkable journey began with numerous roles within Round Tower GAA Club. He played a key role in founding several vital community groups that continue to enrich the village life of Clondalkin, including the Clondalkin Camera Club (1988), Clondalkin Round Tower Heritage Group (2012), and Friends of the Camac (2017). Each of these groups thrives today, thanks in no small part to Tommy’s vision, leadership, and boundless energy. 

Tommy might be most well-known for his life behind the camera. His photographs of local landmarks and stunning natural landscapes are seen around Clondalkin, including the HSE Primary Care Centre. “The photographs act as a form of visual therapy, providing patients with moments of peace, familiarity, and joy” writes his nominator. Tommy is committed to recording local history and has been involved with projects like the Clondalkin Paper Mills oral history project and was a volunteer photographer for the Clondalkin People newspaper.  

Jimmy is no stranger to the spotlight! As a regular producer and director for the Granagh Players, Jimmy has dedicated his time to creating a community of theatre lovers young and old in Granagh. He started with a few interested people and now his productions will involve coordinating more than 30 people in all sorts of roles, from acting to manning the car park. “Through taking part, they also learned about working as a team, communication skills and most importantly their self-confidence was boosted-while enjoying themselves!” writes his nominator.  People come from afar to see the shows and they are a pride of the community. His popular works have helped the local Community Centre stay afloat and modernised and it is a focal point for the parish. To date, the productions of the drama group have raised over €33,000 for local charities and causes.  

When Jimmy isn’t in rehearsal, he is an active member of Macra na Feirme, where he has coached a Debate team or acting as a coach for Granagh Utd. Football Club.