Children & Youth Shortlist 2025

Seán and John have had an extraordinary and long-lasting impact on young people through their decades of volunteering in Scouting. Both have served as Group Leaders, leading by example and inspiring generations of young people with their enthusiasm, patience, and dedication. They have given their time and energy to ensure that young people not only learn practical skills, such as camping, pioneering, and navigation, but also develop important life qualities like leadership, empathy, and respect.  

Together, Seán and John have built the group into one of national recognition, not only for the quality of the youth programmes but also for the confidence, skills, and friendships that Scouts take with them for life. Their impact is immeasurable: countless young people have grown into confident adults, many pursuing leadership roles themselves, inspired by the mentorship they received from Seán and John. What makes them both stand out is how they complement each other. Seán’s drive to push Scouts forward into new challenges, paired with John’s ability to pass on traditions and inspire others, has created a balanced, dynamic, and thriving group.   

Finola and Sarah have had a remarkable impact through their volunteering with the Irish Girl Guides, especially in their local Clogherhead Unit. Every week, they create a safe, welcoming space where girls aged 4 to 18 can learn, laugh, and grow together. Whether it’s Ladybirds learning to share and try new things, Brownies taking their first steps into independence, or Senior Branch preparing for leadership, Finola and Sarah are there, guiding and cheering them on. The girls look forward to meetings, knowing they’ll have fun, but also knowing that they’ll be listened to, supported, and challenged to stretch themselves a little further each time. 

Their nominator writes: “In short, the impact of Finola and Sarah’s volunteering is everywhere – in the smiles and confidence of the girls in Clogherhead, in the strength of the local Leaders’ group, in the success of regional events, and in the wider Guiding community. Their commitment has changed lives, inspired future Leaders, and built a community where girls and women can truly thrive.” A first for the group, Sarah and Finola lead the Guides on a trip to London this year!  

Joy and Edwin have put in a huge amount of time, effort and care to make sure that no parent feels unsupported. Their contribution to the Community Connect Kilkenny Hub is very hands on as Joy carries out deliveries and connects with mothers and babies in need and Edwin runs the upcycling and repair workshop as well as aiding deliveries.  Their drive, commitment and compassion from the very start of the Kilkenny Hub highlights how this cause is one that is near and dear to both of their hearts. Joy approaches every person she encounters with the utmost respect, compassion, and care. She has a genuine rapport with every mother she interacts with while handling each new situation with grace and acceptance. Edwin is often behind the scenes with power tools; he provides logistical support as well as his upcycling skills for donations that sometimes need a little love. His true dedication became apparent when he renovated a part of their farm so that the ever-growing organisation had more space for storage.  Their volunteering contribution does not stop there as Joy also volunteers with La Leche League and Edwin volunteers his time to work with The Light House committee.