Limerick students honoured for ‘remarkable achievements’

STUDENTS with the skills to be top chefs and beauty therapists were honoured at a special awards dinner night in Limerick. 

Multi-award winners who were honoured at the ceremony included Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) student Yeshuah O’Brien Bayer, who was named Knorr Professional Student Chef of the Year 2025 in March. 

The other students cited for their excellence on the night were Kieran Bolger from Dooradoyle, Keri Long from Kileely, Charlie Ward, from Rathkeale, Natalia Kaca and Lucas Maier.

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Kieran Bolger is a former student at Árdscoil Rís. He won the Cookery Gold medal at World Skills Ireland last October.   

As part of his work placement, while studying Culinary Entrepreneurship, Kieran is currently rustling up dishes at Chapter One in Dublin which holds two coveted Michelin stars.

Also honoured on the night was Keri Long, a student of Business with Beauty & Spa Management, who won the Gold medal in Beauty Therapy  at World Skills Ireland 2024.

Keri, from Limerick city, is a former student of Thomond Community College. She said: “I have always had a keen interest in beauty from a very young age. 

“I was incredibly honoured to win, [it was] a moment that truly solidified my passion and dedication to the industry.”

Dr James Griffin, Dean of Faculty, Business and Humanities at TUS, paid tribute to the students: “The past year has showcased some of your incredible talents and skills on the national stage. Participation and completion at these competitions is indeed remarkable, but lifting the gold medal is an extraordinary achievement.”

“To each and every one of you, we offer our utmost congratulations and wish you continued success on your studies and career.”