Ghaoth Dobhair pupils win Young Entrepreneur of the Year at Irish language awards

Pupils from Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair were named as Young Entrepreneurs of the Year as part of the Gradaim Gnó na hÉireann awards from the Rose of Tralee host, Dáithí Ó’Sé.

Danielle Ní Fhearraigh, Molly Nic Giolla Chomhaill, Fia Nic Giolla Chomhaill and Brianna Ní Fhearraigh collected their award at a ceremony at Croke Park, with their aptitude towards entrepreneurship in Irish and their drive to create sustainable products showing exceptional vision and leadership, greatly impressing the judges.

Their project, entitled ‘Eco-Paws’, is an innovative project which creates pet beds from recycled materials, helped the team win a Fiontaí Óg award for the 12-18-year-old age group.

Proud teacher, Eimear Mhic Fhloinn, told Donegal Live: “I am immensely proud of the four students Danielle Ní Fhearraigh, Molly Nic Giolla Chomhaill, Fia Nic Giolla Chomhaill and Brianna Ní Fhearraigh from Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair who have been awarded the Young Entrepreneurs of the Year 2025 Award. 

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“Their journey began with a simple household problem, which they transformed into an innovative and practical product. This led them to represent Ireland on the European stage in Athens during the summer—an extraordinary honour for any young team.

“As their teacher, it has been inspiring to watch their confidence, creativity, and determination grow throughout the process. For the students, this award is a well-deserved recognition of their hard work and vision. 

“For our school, their achievement stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when young people are encouraged to explore ideas, think independently, and believe in their potential. Winning the Young Entrepreneurs of the Year Award is a remarkable milestone, and one that brings great pride to the entire school community.”

Explaining ‘Eco-Paws’, established by the students, Eimear stated: “Our company turns recycled rubber tyres into sustainable pet beds – a product that is waterproof, durable, cost-effective, and eye-catching. 

“We are committed to providing a solution to one of the world’s most problematic waste materials—used rubber tyres— and turning this waste product into valuable, eco-friendly products. By repurposing these tyres, we are reducing landfill waste, lowering pollution, and conserving resources that would otherwise go into producing synthetic pet beds.”