Stammering, affects approximately 1% of the population, meaning that over 50,000 people in Ireland live with this speech difference. The Irish Stammering Association (ISA) plays a vital role in supporting these individuals and their families, raising awareness, and advocating for greater understanding and inclusion across Irish society. Through a range of services, events, workplace and … Continue reading Irish Stammering Assocation: Supporting over 50,000 People in Ireland Who Stammer
Author: Barry Walsh
Claire Twomey Award Winning Founder of Irelands First ADHD Coaching Platform
Claire Twomey, Ireland’s first ADHD coach with four industry-recognised accreditations, shares how her personal journey with ADHD shapes her strengths-based, empathetic approach at ADHD Connections. Driven by lived experience and a passion for ethical standards, she has founded pioneering initiatives like Divergent Nexus and Ireland’s first ADHD Coaching Collective, aiming to empower neurodivergent individuals, promote … Continue reading Claire Twomey Award Winning Founder of Irelands First ADHD Coaching Platform
Neatebox and Curry’s Team Up to Transform In-Store Accessibility with WelcoMe Service Across Ireland
In a world where accessibility and inclusion are increasingly recognised as essential, Gavin Neate's Neatebox is leading the charge with innovative solutions designed to empower disabled individuals. Gavin has had an incredible journey; from training guide dogs to pioneering technology that addresses everyday barriers faced by disabled people. Central to this mission is WelcoMe, a … Continue reading Neatebox and Curry’s Team Up to Transform In-Store Accessibility with WelcoMe Service Across Ireland
Caolan Kelly: How Sharing His Mental Health Journey Transformed His Path in DEI and Entrepreneurship
Caolan Kelly explores how authentic, lived experiences can drive meaningful social impact. Drawing from his own journey-leaving a successful engineering career to walk 1,500km across Europe for youth mental health-Caolan illustrates that personal stories, rather than credentials or strategic plans, are what truly connect, inspire, and mobilise others, especially within diversity, equity, and inclusion work. … Continue reading Caolan Kelly: How Sharing His Mental Health Journey Transformed His Path in DEI and Entrepreneurship
Accessibility Ireland – Digital access for everyone
Founded in 2023, Accessibility Ireland is dedicated to ensuring that everyone—including people with disabilities—has equal access to digital information, products, and services. Driven by a clear mission to bridge the significant gap in education and awareness around digital accessibility in Ireland, the organisation empowers companies to create inclusive digital experiences, from websites and apps to … Continue reading Accessibility Ireland – Digital access for everyone
Announcing Ireland’s 2050 Accelerator: A Launchpad for Global Green Tech
Building on its commitment to tackling pressing sustainability challenges, the 2050 Accelerator is entering its second year, run by Dogpatch Labs with support from the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) and in partnership with industry leaders Kerry Dairy Ireland, ESB, and Coillte. This programme, with the ambition of advancing global green tech, … Continue reading Announcing Ireland’s 2050 Accelerator: A Launchpad for Global Green Tech
inCharge: Simplifying Care for Families and Individuals
In a world where navigating care for loved ones can feel overwhelming, inCharge simplifies support for families and individuals alike. Founded by Karen McCormick a dedicated mother with a diverse background in community engagement, economic development, and co-production. inCharge is more than just an app; it's a mission to put individuals with disabilities and complex … Continue reading inCharge: Simplifying Care for Families and Individuals
Spikes Sight Words: A Creative Boardgame that Helps Dyslexic Children Engage With Reading.
Spike's Sight Words is more than just a board game; it's a creative solution born from a mother's desire to help her son engage with reading. The game's creator Sophie Bradley, drawing from her background in film and television, noticed how her son, unlike his sister, wasn't responding to traditional learning methods. This inspired her … Continue reading Spikes Sight Words: A Creative Boardgame that Helps Dyslexic Children Engage With Reading.
Debunking Myths About Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace: Guidance for Irish Employers
Written by: Mohamed S Camara | Program Coordinator | Employers for Change Introduction Hiring and retaining staff with disabilities is critical to building an inclusive and diverse workplace. In Ireland, the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015 make it clear that employers have a legal obligation to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. However, many myths … Continue reading Debunking Myths About Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace: Guidance for Irish Employers
“Vially: Pioneering Digital Inclusion Through Accessibility Solutions”
Andrew Power - Chief Revenue Officer of Vially (formally IA Labs) In a world where digital accessibility is increasingly crucial, Vially (formerly IA Labs), has been at the forefront of driving change. With a mission to make the world more inclusive through technology, Vially has developed a platform that automates digital accessibility across design, development, … Continue reading “Vially: Pioneering Digital Inclusion Through Accessibility Solutions”
Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for Children With Disabilities – Part 2
Ireland's dedication to fostering inclusive and innovative learning environments for children with disabilities is evident in the diverse array of summer camps now available across the country. Building on the foundation of STEM education and inclusive initiatives, these specialised camps are designed to provide engaging, accessible, and enriching experiences for young learners of all abilities. … Continue reading Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for Children With Disabilities – Part 2
Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for STEM and Diversity – Part 1
Ireland's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as well as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is evident in the growing number of companies offering innovative summer camps for young learners. These organisations are at the forefront of shaping a more inclusive and technologically advanced future for Ireland's youth. From robotics and coding … Continue reading Innovative Summer Camps in Ireland for STEM and Diversity – Part 1
Mama’s Boobie Box: Creating Innovative Breastfeeding Solutions and Support for Breastfeeding Mothers
In the heart of Co. Clare, a unique business, has been quietly revolutionising the way we support breastfeeding mothers. Mama’s Boobie Box, founded by Petrina O’Halloran 2021, has rapidly grown from a small startup to an international success story, offering a range of innovative products and unwavering support for new mums. Born out of Petrina’s … Continue reading Mama’s Boobie Box: Creating Innovative Breastfeeding Solutions and Support for Breastfeeding Mothers
50 Awards in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) or Sustainability that Irish businesses can apply to in 2025
In 2025, Irish businesses have an unprecedented opportunity to showcase their commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and sustainability through the landscape of national awards. From the National Diversity and Inclusion Awards celebrating workplace excellence to the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards recognising innovative ESG practices, companies across Ireland can highlight their transformative … Continue reading 50 Awards in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) or Sustainability that Irish businesses can apply to in 2025
Transforming Neurodiversity: How Amanda Kirby’s Work Has Diagnosed and Supported More Than 100,000 People
When I was 5, my mum attended a Dyspraxia Ireland conference where an expert named Amanda Kirby was speaking. As she listened, my mum began ticking off symptoms in her head, recognising behaviours I exhibited. This led to an assessment where I was diagnosed with dyspraxia. Fast forward 34 years, and Amanda Kirby has become … Continue reading Transforming Neurodiversity: How Amanda Kirby’s Work Has Diagnosed and Supported More Than 100,000 People
Visually Impaired Rugby Pioneer: Ian McKinley’s Extraordinary Journey from Career Ending Injury to Italian Rugby International
Ian McKinley's remarkable rugby journey epitomises extraordinary resilience and determination. Born in Dublin, McKinley's sporting passion emerged early, playing Gaelic football and taking up rugby in St. Columba's College, before going on to the Leinster Rugby Academy and making 6 appearences for Leinster's first team. However while playing for UCD Ian got a devastating eye injury threatened … Continue reading Visually Impaired Rugby Pioneer: Ian McKinley’s Extraordinary Journey from Career Ending Injury to Italian Rugby International
The Frequency School – A Global Music Initiative Uniting Women from 195 Countries to Amplify Women’s Voices at Davos World Economic Forum
The Frequency School is a groundbreaking initiative which unites women from all 195 countries through a global song titled “195,” inspired by the vision of producing a truly global song with a woman from all countries. Spearheaded by Martina Fuchs and produced by U.S. Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum artist Maejor, this project seeks to amplify women’s … Continue reading The Frequency School – A Global Music Initiative Uniting Women from 195 Countries to Amplify Women’s Voices at Davos World Economic Forum
How OnePageCRM’s Founder and CEO Michael Fitzgerald Turned His Dyslexia into a Business Advantage
OnePageCRM, founded by Michael FitzGerald, is an innovative sales management platform that reimagines Customer Relationship Management (CRM) for small businesses. Leveraging his experience with dyslexia and background in engineering and product design, Michael created a CRM solution that prioritises efficiency and user-friendly design. The platform's unique "Action Stream" feature provides a holistic view of sales … Continue reading How OnePageCRM’s Founder and CEO Michael Fitzgerald Turned His Dyslexia into a Business Advantage
From the Politics to Purpose: How Kian Bakhtiari’s The People is Redefining Marketing for Social Change
Before launching The People, Kian Bakhtiari's journey was deeply rooted in a desire to create meaningful change. With a degree in Sociology from the University of Leicester, He began his career in politics, working as a researcher at the House of Parliament. There, he focused on assessing the impact of government cuts on local communities, … Continue reading From the Politics to Purpose: How Kian Bakhtiari’s The People is Redefining Marketing for Social Change
50 Irish People With Disabilities or Mental Health issues that can be your next guest speaker
Today is International Persons With A Disability Day. To celebrate I created a list of 50 extraordinary Irish people who are breaking barriers, challenging stigma, and inspiring change through their lived experiences with disabilities or mental health challenges. These individuals offer unique perspectives, compelling stories, and powerful insights, making them exceptional choices for your next … Continue reading 50 Irish People With Disabilities or Mental Health issues that can be your next guest speaker
International Mens Day: Irish organisations that can help men with Health or Mental Health issues
As we mark International Men’s Day, it’s essential to shine a light on the pressing issues disproportionately affecting men, many of which often go unnoticed. The statistics are shockingly, 79% of all suicides are men, highlighting the critical need for mental health support. Meanwhile, men account for 85% of the homeless population and 70% of … Continue reading International Mens Day: Irish organisations that can help men with Health or Mental Health issues
Mei Lin Yap: Breaking Barriers to Show Employers the True Potential of People with Down Syndrome
Mei Lin Yap, is a committed advocate and accomplished professional, brings an empowering message to people with Down Syndrome and to those who support a more inclusive workforce. Mei Lin has broken down barriers by building a fulfilling career spanning over 15 years, which sadly is not common place for people with Down Syndrome in … Continue reading Mei Lin Yap: Breaking Barriers to Show Employers the True Potential of People with Down Syndrome
Izzy Wheels: Empowering Wheelchair Users to ‘Stand Out’ with Art and Style
Izzy Wheels is redefining mobility with a splash of creativity and inclusivity, championing their empowering slogan, “If you can’t stand up, stand out.” Founded by sisters Ailbhe and Izzy Keane, Izzy Wheels creates vibrant, artistic wheelchair covers that allow users to express their unique style and personality. What began as a college project has blossomed … Continue reading Izzy Wheels: Empowering Wheelchair Users to ‘Stand Out’ with Art and Style
Philip Black, CEO of CSRN: A charity supporting non-profits around the globe responding to crisis supported by the One Young World network
Philip Black's journey journey leading up to leadership roles at the Crisis Student Response Network (CSRN) and Action for Refugee Life (AREL) was rooted in both academic and early career experiences. Initially, while studying Economics and Marketing at the University of Ulster, Philip secured a digital strategy internship with PwC . This introduced him to … Continue reading Philip Black, CEO of CSRN: A charity supporting non-profits around the globe responding to crisis supported by the One Young World network
Black and Irish: Amplifying Voices, Driving Change, and Fostering Inclusion in Ireland
It was great to Pierre Yimbog., Co-founder of Black and Irish. The grassroots movement has become a powerful voice for the Black and mixed-race community in Ireland. Born in June 2020 as an Instagram page in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, Black and Irish began as a platform to share the stories and experiences … Continue reading Black and Irish: Amplifying Voices, Driving Change, and Fostering Inclusion in Ireland
Conor Lynch: Having Sold His Own Marketing Agency Conor is Now Focusing on Helping Others With His New Venture- Career Lab
Conor's career journey began with a marketing degree, followed by various roles in the field. In 1997, he transitioned into internet marketing at a technology firm, recognising the early potential of the online space. Over the next 25 years, Conor worked with notable brands like Vodafone and RaboDirect, contributing to award-winning campaigns. His entrepreneurial ventures … Continue reading Conor Lynch: Having Sold His Own Marketing Agency Conor is Now Focusing on Helping Others With His New Venture- Career Lab
50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 2
The second part of my series highlighting 50 Irish companies, programmes, and initiatives that are actively working to make education more diverse and inclusive. Again, the focus of the companies and initiatives on this article is to enhance access to education for underrepresented groups. The featured organisations include a mix of nonprofits, educational institutions, and … Continue reading 50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 2
50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 1
This article highlights 50 Irish companies, programmes, and initiatives that are actively working to make education more diverse and inclusive. This is the first part of two articles showcasing these efforts, with a focus on enhancing access to education for underrepresented groups. The featured organisations include a mix of nonprofits, educational institutions, and businesses, all … Continue reading 50 Irish Companies, Programmes or Initatives Making Education More Diverse and Inclusive Part 1
The Caring in Business Conference is one of Ireland’s most important events for Diversity Equity and Inclusion
Today, we're speaking with Ciara Mallon about the highly anticipated Caring in Business – Where Technology Meets Humanity conference, set to take place on Thursday, 10th October 2024 at the Conrad Hotel in Dublin. This one-day B2B event brings together global technology giants and innovative Irish firms to explore the intersection of technology and corporate … Continue reading The Caring in Business Conference is one of Ireland’s most important events for Diversity Equity and Inclusion
AHEAD Ireland’s WAM Programme Approaches 700 Successful Placements. At the same time Shaping Inclusive Employment for Employers
AHEAD Ireland is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to fostering inclusive environments in education and employment for individuals with disabilities. By focusing on further education, higher education, and graduate employment, AHEAD strives to remove barriers that hinder the participation of students and graduates with disabilities. The organization provides crucial information and support to students, educators, … Continue reading AHEAD Ireland’s WAM Programme Approaches 700 Successful Placements. At the same time Shaping Inclusive Employment for Employers
Irvine Training: Tailored Workshops for Not-For-Profit’s, Social Enterprises and Traditional Businesses
As founder of Irvine Training was driven by necessity to start the company during the post-Celtic Tiger era, a time when many were seeking to retrain and upskill. Initially focused on training in marketing, governance, and funding, Irvine Training has evolved to offer bespoke courses tailored to various sectors, including social enterprises and traditional businesses. … Continue reading Irvine Training: Tailored Workshops for Not-For-Profit’s, Social Enterprises and Traditional Businesses
15 Irish Paralympians to look out for in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games
The Irish Paralympic team has been a source of inspiration and pride, featuring a diverse group of athletes who have excelled across various sports. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Ireland's team consisted of 29 competitors, and they achieved remarkable success, winning seven medals including four golds, two silver and one bronze medal. The athletes … Continue reading 15 Irish Paralympians to look out for in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games
ShipItCon 2024: Nurturing Inclusivity and Innovation in Software Delivery
ShipItCon, established in 2017, originally focused on software delivery in the gaming industry but has since broadened its scope to encompass various industries. The event continues to prioritize its mission of creating a collaborative and inclusive space for software development professionals to explore the dynamic challenges and opportunities in their field. Guided by values of … Continue reading ShipItCon 2024: Nurturing Inclusivity and Innovation in Software Delivery
How an autism diagnosis led Mark Scully to create his own coaching and neurodiversity consultancy company
Mark Scully, a former Tax Director at KPMG Ireland discusses his journey and how his autism diagnosis in 2021 impacted his career. Initially joining KPMG’s tax graduate programme in 2011, Mark advanced through his career but faced underlying challenges that became apparent only after entering the workforce. Despite excelling in certain job aspects, he struggled … Continue reading How an autism diagnosis led Mark Scully to create his own coaching and neurodiversity consultancy company
Join Career Lab for a career planning and a side hustle workshop to help to take control of you career
Career Lab are hosting a Career Design workshop on Thursday August 8th aimed at helping attendees collaboratively work on their career plans with guidance from expert mentors such as Conor Lynch, Keith O’Malley, Ricardo Moran, and Garrick Stark. Participants will engage in activities like presenting their career ideas for feedback, brainstorming side hustles, and using … Continue reading Join Career Lab for a career planning and a side hustle workshop to help to take control of you career
Transforming the Workforce: How Karen O’Reilly Founded Employmum and Employflex to Champion Flexible Work
After living abroad for over 20 years, Karen O'Reilly returned to West Cork in 2013, bringing with her over two decades of experience in Finance and Management and a desire for flexible work to accommodate her family commitments. With her husband’s job requiring him to be away for nine months each year, Karen needed a … Continue reading Transforming the Workforce: How Karen O’Reilly Founded Employmum and Employflex to Champion Flexible Work
DevA11y – Bridging the accessibility gap and make the internet a more welcoming place for everyone.
The story of DevA11y began a decade ago when founders Patrick Guiney and Cormac Chisholm first met at a startup weekend. United by a shared vision, they were driven to address a glaring issue: the internet's pervasive accessibility barriers. Their realization that 96% of the top one million websites are inaccessible to individuals with disabilities highlighted … Continue reading DevA11y – Bridging the accessibility gap and make the internet a more welcoming place for everyone.
IDA Ireland – Focusing pratical actions the agency can take to make the organisation more accessible and inclusive
IDA Ireland, the Ireland's premier Foreign Direct Investment agency, prioritizes integrating Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles into its organizational culture and practices. The agency adopts a practical, action-oriented approach, driven by the Public Sector Duty mandate of "Assess, Address, Report" from the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. By actively listening to employee experiences, … Continue reading IDA Ireland – Focusing pratical actions the agency can take to make the organisation more accessible and inclusive
APNI – Empowering African professionals and professionals of African descent in Ireland
The African Professional Network of Ireland (APNI), founded in 2016, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to connecting and empowering professionals of African descent in Ireland. APNI offers a variety of programs including themed events, webinars, workshops, and career development initiatives. The organisation aims to foster collaboration, provide career support through mentorship and networking events, and … Continue reading APNI – Empowering African professionals and professionals of African descent in Ireland
Amanda Wallace: Transforming Business Landscapes with a Passion for People and Performance
Amanda Wallace has been building high-performance teams for over 25 years, spanning roles including Head of Business Development, Head of Training and Development, CPO, and COO. Inspired by a passion for people, Amanda excels in delivering change and transformation projects, developing new strategies and processes, and unifying goals to embed lasting cultural change. As a … Continue reading Amanda Wallace: Transforming Business Landscapes with a Passion for People and Performance
Irish Companies To Follow From The Dublin Tech Summit 2024
The Dublin Tech Summit 2024, held earlier this month, solidified its reputation as Europe’s fastest-growing tech conference. This year's event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including renowned sports stars like Jamie Heaslip and Andrew Trimble, PR insights from Beachhut PR, and venture capital discussions. Workshops spanned diverse topics with presenters from Canva to InterTrade … Continue reading Irish Companies To Follow From The Dublin Tech Summit 2024
Ed Fidgeon-Kavanagh’s Clearpreso: Elevating Startup Pitches with Clear, Sharp, Accessible, and Inclusive Presentations for Investors
Ed Fidgeon-Kavanagh, the mastermind behind Clearpreso, launched his presentation design and consultancy business almost directly out of college, equipped with a business undergraduate degree from UCD. Although his formal education did not provide all the practical skills he utilises today, it did ignite his passion for presentations, setting him on the path to becoming a … Continue reading Ed Fidgeon-Kavanagh’s Clearpreso: Elevating Startup Pitches with Clear, Sharp, Accessible, and Inclusive Presentations for Investors
Resources in Ireland That Help Underrepresented Groups in the Workforce Start Their Own Business
The Irish workforce is witnessing a surge of initiatives dedicated to empowering underrepresented groups to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. Whether its greater female representation (particularly in Tech), people with disabilities, migrants to Ireland, social enterprises or youth entrepreneurship it has never been a better time to get the support and guidance to create a successful … Continue reading Resources in Ireland That Help Underrepresented Groups in the Workforce Start Their Own Business
Unlocking Empathy: Sile Walsh’s Journey to Inclusive Leadership and Mental Health Advocacy
Sile Walsh's leadership programmes, blog content and her upcoming book makes her one of the leading voices on how to create create empathy and be a voice within the DEI community particularly on the Mental Health and leadership areas. Her leadership programmes, which focuses on helping individuals overcome self-doubt and cultivate fulfilling lives. Grounded in … Continue reading Unlocking Empathy: Sile Walsh’s Journey to Inclusive Leadership and Mental Health Advocacy
Soph Quill: using stories of her own struggles to educate, and be a voice for change
Soph Quill, a dynamic advocate for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), whose journey into the field stems from a diverse background and a passion for making a difference. Soph's path to inclusion work was anything but conventional, shaped by experiences ranging from studying philosophy to navigating mental health challenges. Initially uncertain about her career trajectory, … Continue reading Soph Quill: using stories of her own struggles to educate, and be a voice for change
Generation Ireland – Empowering underrepresented groups facing barriers employment
Generation Ireland, is a global movement born from McKinsey & Company’s CSR drive in 2014 to ensure that job seekers are given the necessary skills for the modern economy. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, it launched its inaugural AWS Cloud re/Start bootcamp in Ireland November 2020, scaling up to 10 bootcamps by 2022, impacting Dublin and … Continue reading Generation Ireland – Empowering underrepresented groups facing barriers employment
10 Reasons why Leaving Cert students should consider doing a Post Leaving Cert course
According to the Education and Training Board (ETB) there are currently "32,000 staff employed in the EBT sector, educating 368,000 learners, in over 1,000 locations in the 26 counties of The Republic of Ireland". However, due to the inherent elitism within the education sector for many they’re still looked down upon because students are going … Continue reading 10 Reasons why Leaving Cert students should consider doing a Post Leaving Cert course
Cpl – Discussing and embedding all aspects DEI throughout their organisation
Since 2017 when Cpl established the first LGBTQ+ committee in Ireland's recruitment agency sector. Cpl's DEI strategy involves various measures, including internal surveys, partnerships with organisations like the Irish Centre for Diversity, and the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their vision. They emphasise education and awareness, offering a wide range of DEI-related training … Continue reading Cpl – Discussing and embedding all aspects DEI throughout their organisation
The Together Academy – An award winning social enterprise that’s providing paid employment to people with Down Syndrome
The genesis of The Together Academy, a transformative programme for young adults with Down Syndrome, was stemmed from the founder's Therese Coveney background in the social care sector and the birth of her daughter, April, who has Down Syndrome. Motivated by a vision of providing meaningful training and employment opportunities, Therese established The Together Academy … Continue reading The Together Academy – An award winning social enterprise that’s providing paid employment to people with Down Syndrome