Students’ Gaisce achievement  

ST MARY’S Holy Faith Secondary School, Killester is celebrating success this week as two of its students achieved Gaisce Awards presented by President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins. 

Tanya Beth Rosaldo achieved a Gold Award, the highest possible award bestowed by the President and Emma Daly achieved a Silver Award as she continues her journey towards Gold in the coming year. The presentations took place at Dublin Castle and the Mansion House. 

The President’s Award is a self-development programme that encourages young people to find their passion, get active and make a difference in their communities. 

In order to be eligible for the awards students take on exciting personal, physical and community challenges and develop new skills over a prolonged period of engagement. 

Principal of St Mary’s, Evelyn McLoughlin, said: “Gaisce is a direct challenge from the President to the young people of Ireland to dream big and realise their potential and we are very proud that Emma and Tanya were among this year’s recipients. 

“St Mary’s has a long tradition of involvement in the Gaisce Programme over four decades and we have seen first-hand how the programme has enriched the lives of our young people.”

President Higgins, in addressing the young people, said: “It may sometimes seem difficult to imagine the difference that any single individual can make when confronted by global issues. 

“But as you have learned through all the hard work you have undertaken to reach this day, it is through numberless acts of kindness, compassion and solidarity that you will change our world.”