European success for Tipperary student in Lions Club Ambassador Programme
Thurles student Caitlin Tierney has brought national pride to Ireland after securing second place in the European final of the prestigious Lions Young Ambassador of the 21st Century Award
A student at the Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles, Caitlin represented Ireland at the Lions Europa Forum in Karlsruhe, Germany, where she competed against outstanding young leaders from across Europe.
Following a series of interviews and assessments by an international judging panel, Caitlin was awarded second place and received a bursary of €2,500 to support the continued development of her community projects.
The Lions Young Ambassador of the 21st Century Award recognises young people aged 15 to 19 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, community service and communication skills.
The programme, which operates across Europe, encourages young people to view community service as a vital element of leadership and civic responsibility.
Judges were particularly impressed by Caitlin’s extensive community involvement and commitment to helping others.
At the heart of her application was an extraordinary fundraising challenge in which she and her father walked the length of Ireland, covering 664 kilometres.
The journey was undertaken in support of a residential care home where Caitlin’s aunt had lived for 55 years and successfully raised €7,000 for the facility.
Following her success in the Lions District competition, Caitlin expanded her community work by launching the ‘Bring a Teabag’ initiative in partnership with the Thurles Lions Trust Housing Association.
The project provides opportunities for socially isolated members of the community to come together for conversation, music, art and other shared activities, helping to foster stronger social connections and reduce loneliness.
Caitlin’s work has also strengthened links between young people and the Lions organisation.
She has participated in a range of Lions initiatives, including Christmas food collections and the National Water Quality Survey, while encouraging friends and classmates to become involved in community service projects.
Looking to the future, Caitlin plans to use part of her bursary to install Buddy Benches in local communities.
The benches are intended to provide welcoming spaces where people can seek companionship, conversation and support when needed.
Members of Thurles Lions Club have congratulated Caitlin on her remarkable achievement, describing her as an inspiring example of the positive impact young people can have through dedication, leadership and community service.
Her success highlights both the strength of youth volunteering in Ireland and the important role that community organisations play in supporting future leaders.
Thurles Lions Club would like to acknowledge the wonderful support provided by mentors Mary Slattery and William McDonagh, along with Anne Bolton, CEO of Thurles Lions Trust Housing Association, and Stephanie Keating, Lions District Young Ambassador Award Officer.