In a special episode of Disability Matters, John Comiskey welcomed two inspiring guests from Gaisce – The President’s Award: Joy Winston, Development Officer for North Dublin and Wicklow, and Conor Dillon, a 2025 Youth Ambassador and the first wheelchair user to hold this position.
Gaisce celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Since 1985, the programme has encouraged young people in Ireland to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and engage in their communities. “It’s Ireland’s national youth award and self-development programme,” Joy explained. “It’s a direct challenge from the President of Ireland to dream big and realise your potential.”
Gaisce is inclusive and widely accessible. Joy described how the programme is delivered across schools, disability services, special schools, youth organisations, and even prisons. Young participants undertake four core challenges: personal skill, physical recreation, community involvement, and an adventure journey. Awards come in three levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—with each requiring increasing time and commitment.
Conor Dillon shared his remarkable journey through all three levels of the award, which he completed as a student of the Central Remedial Clinic (CRC). His path to Gold, completed during the COVID-19 pandemic, was uniquely adapted to his needs. “I learned sign language, set a table, read a recipe, and made a PowerPoint presentation using iMovie—all through Zoom,” he recalled. Conor also organised a motorised cycle and raised over €5,700 for charity. “Every part of my Gaisce journey was adapted for me. They were very good at that.”
Now, as a Youth Ambassador, Conor is using his platform to inspire others—especially young people with disabilities—to take part. “I want to show that if I can do it, anyone can,” he said. “Gaisce is open to everyone, and it can be adapted to suit your needs.”
Joy highlighted the support system behind each participant: “Each young person is guided by a President’s Award Leader (PAL), who ensures their challenges are meaningful, safe, and achievable.”
The impact of Gaisce is clear. Around 25,000 young people begin the Bronze award each year, with smaller numbers progressing to Silver and Gold. The Gold Award is particularly prestigious, with just around 80 recipients annually, each presented with their award by the President of Ireland.
For groups interested in starting their Gaisce journey, Joy encouraged them to reach out via the Gaisce website: www.gaisce.ie. Development officers are based across the country and offer tailored support to organisations and participants. “Whether it’s in-person, over the phone, or on Zoom, we’ll help you get started.”
Financial barriers are also being addressed through the Gaisce Suas Bursary Fund, which supports the adventure journey aspect for those in need. Additionally, Gaisce’s Challenge Partners—organisations such as the Alzheimer Society of Ireland—help young people find meaningful ways to complete their community involvement.
Conor has had a busy year as an ambassador, speaking at events, returning to CRC to inspire others, and even travelling to Brussels with fellow ambassadors. “I’m very proud to be on the first-ever Youth Ambassador panel,” he said. “It’s about people—supporting, inspiring, and empowering each other.”
Whether you’re a young person, parent, educator, or youth worker, Gaisce offers a path of self-discovery, confidence-building, and achievement for all. As Conor puts it: “Everyone has the potential to achieve something amazing.”
✨ Learn how you or your organisation can get involved at https://www.gaisce.ie
Disability Matters airs every Thursday at 4PM on Phoenix 92.5FM, with repeats on Monday at 3PM and Tuesday at 7AM & 3PM. Podcast available after each show on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.