The 2026 Lord Mayor’s Awards were unique. For the first time, Dubliners were invited to nominate those they believed should be honoured by their city. Over 1,200 people shared stories of Dublin City’s unsung heroes. The recipients have served others, strengthened communities and helped Dublin City flourish. They remind us that Dublin city is at its best when people give their time, talent and heart to others.
Charlie O’Leary, Stalwart of Football in Ireland
Growing up in East Wall, Charlie helped establish the famous street leagues and gave decades of service to the Leinster Football League. Charlie was kitman to the Boys in Green and Jack Charlton for Italia ’90 when Ireland took its place on the world stage and the nation celebrated like never before or since! Watch Charlie’s story.
Eileen McHugh, Hair Together
Eileen turned lived experience into leadership, creating second chances for young people from challenging backgrounds and women rebuilding their lives. Ballymun’s Hair Together transforms lives through creativity, compassion, and opportunity delivering innovative hairdressing and barbering training. Watch Eileen’s story.
Cian Hall Quinn, Poet and Volunteer
Cian’s poetry and advocacy deepen autism acceptance, reminding us that difference is not something to be hidden; it is something to be understood, respected and celebrated. Cian volunteers with Cabra’s Naomh Fionnbarra, including supporting the All Stars, a team that provides GAA training opportunities for children with additional needs. Watch Cian’s story.
Johnny Watson, Shelbourne Football Club
Johnny’s decades of service, loyalty and kindness remind us that the heart of sport is not only on the pitch, it is also behind the scenes. Rain or shine, Johnny shows up and supports the community. As the long-time Head of Equipment, he follows in the footsteps of his father, John Watson Senior, who would wash the team’s kit in the family bathtub! Watch John’s story.
The Stephen Moylan Foundation
Borne out of the Moylan family’s personal experience, the Foundation provides healing and practical support to children and young people facing the profound loss of a parent. The Foundation provides access to professional bereavement counselling and therapy for children and young people aged 5 to 18. Watch their story.
Catherine Scuffil, Historian and Storyteller
A passionate historian, Catherine brings history to life by sharing and preserving the stories of Dublin’s unique Liberties area. Her focus is the culture and traditions of Dublin 8, connecting people with their own history and building pride in the place where they live. Watch Catherine’s story
Inner City Running Club
The club shows how community can be built one step at a time, bringing people together through running, friendship, well-being and belonging. This spirit can be seen when the club comes together to help young members like Cobey, who has cerebral palsy, take part in the Dublin Marathon. It is a powerful, positive force at the heart of its community. Watch their story.
Grace Richardson, Sheriff Youth Club
Everyday Grace lives the Sheriff Youth Club motto, ‘Always Trying’, building a welcoming place for all in Dublin North East Inner City. Grace is at the centre of the club, organising matches & equipment, handling social media, advocating for members, and removing barriers to participation. Watch Grace’s story.
Marie O’Reilly, East Wall Youth
Marie’s quiet, relentless commitment has strengthened communities in Dublin’s East Wall and North Port for over 40 years. With East Wall Youth, she’s helped countless young people when their next step could shape the rest of their lives. Marie is a member of the Career LEAP Programme, the youth employment training partnership between East Wall Youth, SWAN Youth Service and Trinity College Dublin. Simply put, Marie shows up, brings people with her and gets the work done. Watch Marie’s story.
More info: www.lordmayorsawards.ie
