An audience of over 200 guests gathered at the Westlodge Hotel in Bantry on Friday, May 9, to celebrate the remarkable young people of the region and their community spirit and achievements at the 29th West Cork Garda Youth Awards, held in association with SuperValu.
Among the standout awardees was Jack Murphy (18) of Ballylickey, Bantry, who responded swiftly and calmly during two separate family emergencies. His first aid training enabled him to save his sister during a medical crisis and protect his grandfather during a farm accident. Jack is also a student of the year at Coláiste Pobail Bheanntraí and an active volunteer in his local GAA club.
Cara Courtney (17) of Boherbue was honoured for her selfless volunteering, including her work with children living in poverty in Kolkata through the Hope Foundation. Known for her humility, Cara also supports children with special needs and plays a leading role in her local Girl Guides, where she is regarded as a role model by both peers and mentors.
Sixteen-year-old Chloe-Anne O’Callaghan from Schull impressed with her commitment to social causes, fundraising for wheelchair basketball in Bantry, volunteering in a local charity shop, and competing nationally with Durrus Athletics Club. Her community spirit extends to filmmaking, with her group recently recognised at a film festival.
In Bandon, 17-year-old Cian Hurley was recognised for his dedication to inclusion through sport. He volunteers with children with additional needs in both GAA and soccer, spreading a message of acceptance and inclusion. He is also a graduate of the Dermot Earley leadership programme.
Evan Collins (16) of Skibbereen was celebrated for becoming a world champion in kickboxing, while giving back by coaching younger athletes. He has also taken a stand against bullying, offering support to fellow students, and was honoured as grand marshal of the local St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Other awards recognised outstanding contributions from across West Cork’s districts. Jane Seegers (19) of Ballydehob led a sustainability initiative focused on ocean plastics, inspiring her peers through environmental action. Cora Harrington (18) of Ballinadee worked on transforming a community space and advocated for inclusivity, while also raising funds for Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland. Niamh O’Driscoll (18) of Skibbereen volunteered in Lourdes assisting those with mobility issues, plays music for local elderly residents, and is a certified lifeguard and swimming instructor. Alexander Corrigan (15) from Lissarda combined technology and heritage, using AI to reconstruct the face of Wolfe Tone and cycling across Cork to raise funds to preserve Irish war medals.
Group awards reflected the collective efforts of young people creating tangible change. Five students from Skibbereen Community School gave invaluable assistance to sick and elderly pilgrims during a pilgrimage to Lourdes, demonstrating commitment and compassion throughout. National and international rowing representatives Jack Hehir and Seléena Connolly, both 18, stood out not just for their sporting achievements, but for mentoring younger athletes and instilling teamwork and perseverance. The Renew IT group from Kinsale Community School tackled digital waste by refurbishing old laptops and donating them to students in Tanzania – combining sustainability with global solidarity.
Special Achievement Awards were presented to three individuals who have shown resilience in the face of adversity. Bakhtyar Nabi (19) from Clonakilty overcame a perilous journey from Afghanistan and has since become a key member of a Munster cricket team, all while showing deep kindness and generosity. Emma Kelly (19) of Bantry triumphed over personal trauma and has become a source of motivation and care for her school community. Cormac O’Callaghan (18) from Kinsale lives with a progressive muscular condition but has excelled as a para-cyclist at international competitions. He advocates for others with disabilities, showing that determination knows no limits.
The Community Safety Awards recognised young people who made a direct impact on public well-being. A group from Sacred Heart Secondary School in Clonakilty developed and delivered a road safety campaign, educating their peers with initiative and clarity. Naoise Quinn (18) and Ailíse O’Sullivan (19), both from Skibbereen, were commended for saving a man’s life after intervening during a crisis on a Baltimore beach – an act of bravery and quick thinking that truly exemplified the spirit of the awards.
The evening concluded with a posthumous Outstanding Contribution to Youth Award presented to Catherine Duggan of Bandon. A lifelong member and competitor in Bandon Athletic Club, Catherine dedicated herself to coaching and mentoring generations of young athletes. Her legacy of generosity, encouragement, and unwavering belief in others will be remembered for years to come.
The 2024 West Cork Garda Youth Awards honoured outstanding individuals and groups, highlighting a generation of young people who are not waiting for change, but making it happen.
