Teens scoop top awards
Two Cork teenagers have been recognised for their voluntary efforts they each make in their communities. Liadh Hanley and Jessica Collins were selected from hundreds of youth volunteers across Ireland for awards at the 2020 Pramerica Spirit of Community Virtual Awards Ceremony.
Liadh and Jessica were chosen as two of 20 exceptional young people from across Ireland, who are some of the country’s most outstanding youth volunteers. Liadh is a sixth year student at St Angela's College and was recognised as one of two All-Ireland Youth Volunteers of the Year at the event.
A talented writer, Liadh wrote a children's book about disabilities called ‘Upside Down’ that went on to get published while copies are provided to patients and families with children with Down Syndrome at CUMH. She has also volunteered in Douglas Nursing Home and has fundraised for charities including the Hope Foundation, the Cork Simon Community and Pieta House.
A passionate animal lover, Jessica is a fourth year student at Skibbereen Community School and was given the opportunity to volunteer for five weeks in China at the Slaughterhouse Survivors, Harbin Animal Rescue, looking after ill and unwanted dogs and cats. She has set up an animal cruelty project, overcoming her own mental health difficulties, and is working to promote this within her school.
As one of two All-Ireland Youth Volunteers of the Year named - Aaron Smith from Belfast was also awarded - Liadh received €1,000 to donate to a charity of her choice, a gold medallion and a crystal trophy for her school. She was also given an additional €1,000 in prize money.
“Both Aaron and Liadh are amazing students and inspiring role models in their local communities,” said Naomi Hegarty, Vice President, Risk & Privacy, Pramerica Systems Ireland and Executive Sponsor for the Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards.
“All of our 2020 finalists carry out exceptional volunteer work with the ultimate goal of making the lives better of those in need. It’s great to see their achievements being celebrated and I look forward to hearing about their continued good work in the future.”