Tipperary teen Cara Darmody to make history as youngest MC at national conference
The 15-year-old disability rights activist will host the National Young Carers Conference at UCD, giving a platform to young carers across Ireland.
A disability rights activist from Tipperary is set to make history once again as she becomes the youngest person ever recorded to serve as Master of Ceremonies (MC) for a formal national event in Ireland.
15-year-old Cara Darmody, a Tipperary native, will lead the National Young Carers Conference 2026, taking place at O’Reilly Hall, University College Dublin (UCD), on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11am.
The conference, themed "The Real Lives of Young Carers," is a ground-breaking event organised "by young carers, for young carers".
It aims to provide a platform for the estimated thousands of children and young adults in Ireland who provide essential care for family members with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental health challenges.
Cara will have the distinct honour of introducing President Catherine Connolly in Irish, who will officially open the conference. President Connolly will appear onstage at 11.05am and stay for one hour.
The line-up includes Ombudsman for Children Niall Muldoon and Professor Philip Jaffé, Vice Chair of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. Leader of the Opposition Mary-Lou McDonald will also be in attendance.
The event will feature academic research from UCD and the University of Limerick (UL), highlighting the systemic challenges faced by young carers.
Attendees can also participate in a VR/XR tech room, an art station, and enjoy live music from acts including the Kabin Crew.
"I'm absolutely thrilled to be the Master of Ceremonies for such a huge event," said Cara Darmody.
"For so many years, carers haven't got the recognition they deserve. This conference will shine a light on their vital role and ensure their voices are finally heard by decision-makers".
The National Young Carers Conference is supported by the Office of the Ombudsman for Children and co-funded by Léargas through the Erasmus+ Youth Participation Action. Tickets are free and available to young carers, their families, and professionals in the sector.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: O’Reilly Hall, UCD, Dublin
Tickets: Free (via Eventbrite)