JCI Mayo in association with AIB, The Mayo Advertiser, Irish TV, Mid West Radio and Atti Designs, recently hosted the prestigious ‘Ten Outstanding Young People Awards’ (TOYP ) in the Castlebar Branch of AIB.
TOYP is a global JCI run initiative to identify and recognise young people aged 18-40 for their dynamism and enthusiasm in their fields. In 2012 Mayo woman Ashling Neary got all the way to the world stage for her extraordinary work in international healthcare and education for the underprivileged. Ireland shone again last year when Joanne O’Riordain from Cork took one of the TOYP awards at the JCI World Congress in Japan. Joanne campaigns tirelessly for people with disabilities and is known to many since featuring in her own documentary No Limbs, No Limits.
There are 10 categories under which nominations were made, relating to the fields of business; politics; academic achievements; culture; moral/environmental leadership; contribution to children/world peace/human rights; humanitarian/voluntary leadership; scientific/technological development; personal improvement/accomplishment; and medical innovation.
National director of community, Keira Keogh, said: "This year we have had a record number of nominations across the country and it is mind blowing to see the calibre of young people we have here in Ireland, and indeed Mayo, that are leaders in their chosen fields." It was a great event, with 10 local winners who were recognised in front of their family and peers. Guest speaker on the night was local woman Martina Jennings.
The next stage is the National TOYP Awards in Clontarf Castle on May 21, followed by the naming of the ‘Ten Outstanding Young People’ at the JCI World Congress in Quebec in November. JCI Mayo hopes to have a World Winner among the 10 outstanding nominees.
Karen Mc Crann, president of JCI Mayo, added: “There are many outstanding young people based in Mayo, as shown with 18 local winners, six national winners, and one world winner to date. We need to continue shining a light to let more outstanding young people be seen and recognised.”
Members of JCI Mayo feel that highlighting the accomplishments of these young active citizens will inspire others to be better and realise their full potential as active citizens.
Coverage of the awards is online on IrishTV.ie The programme is Mayo Matters 92.
