Michael Power from Athlone has won the Enterprise Award at the annual Traveller Pride Awards, which took place recently in the Pillar Room, Dublin.
Power is the first Traveller editor of an Irish magazine. While volunteering at the Travellers Voice, Michael spent his spare time completing an online course in journalism and was later appointed as a reporter to the magazine.
By being the figurehead at the Travellers Voice, Michael’s role has helped break down stereotypes and discrimination and brought awareness around social issues, promoting positive news stories, and encouraging more community engagement.
Picking up the award Michael said: “I am incredibly honoured to be acknowledged by a panel of my peers for my achievements and, importantly, recognition by members of my community who understand the obstacles Travellers face in education and employment”.
The Irish Traveller movement is the co-ordinator of the event, which is jointly supported by eight Traveller organisations. The awards are the flagship annual event for Travellers generating huge positivity within the community and beyond.
