TWO Northside boys have jointly claimed the annual Fingal County Council
‘Community Person Of The Year’ award, beating off stiff competition from mainly adult entrants.
Mark Ball (12) and Emils Jekabsons (10), both from Ongar, Dublin 15, collected the coveted award at the ceremony in Draoicht Arts Centre, Blanchardstown last month. Mark and Emils claimed their prize for their work with Ongar Taekwondo.
The awards ceremony was hosted by RTE’s Mary Kennedy and the event was a celebration of the good work people do for the community of Fingal.
From St John’s Ambulance volunteers to community development workers and fundraisers, there was certainly no shortage of worthy nominees for the main title.
Over 400 people – mainly adults – packed into the Draoicht Arts Centre to see who would claim the award, little knowing it would go to two young boys.
Announcing the winner, Ms Kennedy said:
“Our next award is very special, because the work done by our next two volunteers is amazing.
“These two guys help out in Ongar Taekwondo and work with the small children in the club under the supervision of their instructor, Master Joe.
“These guys are patient and always willing to help and encourage the smaller children in their Taekwondo club. So much so that it has been noted that many children have often told their parents they want to be just like their Taekwondo mentors.
“What makes these two lads that bit more special is their age. They are just 10 and 12. These two boys are an inspiration to others and a credit to their community and their families.
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The boys’ instructor and coach, Master Joe, said:
“It’s always nice to reward anyone who does good for their community, and on this occasion it was even better because those being honoured were so young.
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Master Joe thanked all those involved in organising the event, including Fingal County Council’s Linda Ennis and Paul Reid.
After receiving his award, Emils said:
“I can’t believe it. I really can’t believe I have won this. This is class.
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Mark too was delighted with his award, saying:
“It was a great night
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Nominations for the
‘Community Person of the Year’ award were accepted from the general public, community organisations and elected representatives.
The award offers the opportunity
‘to honour an individual who through their voluntary work has made a
‘significant contribution to the quality of life of the citizens of Fingal’.
For details of Taekwondo classes for children in Ongar, visit www.joetaekwondo.com or text 086-3355560