Two young Limerick leaders receive award from President Higgins
TWO YOUNG people from Limerick have received special awards from the President for their ‘creativity and perspective’, as part of this year's Gaisce Gold Award ceremony.
Erin McIvor and Rebecca Banville from Limerick got Gaisce Gold Award Medals from President Michael D Higgins himself, following their ‘contribution to communities’ nationwide.
Gaisce - The President’s Award is a self-development programme for people aged 14 to 25 which has been proven to enhance confidence and resilience through participation in personal, physical, community, and adventure challenges.
Erin and Rebecca were two of 98 students in Ireland to attend a special ceremony in Áras an Uachtaráin on Friday, July 7 and receive their medals.
Referencing the ‘empowerment of youth’ President Michael D Higgins said: “Young people possess immense potential, creativity, and a perspective that can shape our world in profound ways, demonstrated through this year’s recipients of the Gold Award.
“We must value and empower our youth, ensuring access to education, opportunities, and programmes such as Gaisce to allow them to express their ideas and make a positive impact in the communities in which they live.
“I hope that they [awardees] will continue to actively engage in their communities to build a brighter, more inclusive society for all."
Gaisce is a non-formal education award that supports young people on career and learning pathways.
Gaisce was established in 1985 as the national youth award and Ireland’s highest recognition of a young person’s achievement and voluntary contribution. To date, more than 350,000 young people have achieved their Gaisce Award.
To achieve a Gaisce Award, participants need to complete activities for one hour a week in each of the three challenge areas: Personal Skill, Community Involvement and Physical Recreation.