Kildare woman presents award to Michael D Higgins

Naas native Sal Healy, operations manager at the Irish Development Education Association (IDEA), played a pivotal role in orchestrating and presenting the inaugural ‘Global Voice for Humanity’ Award to President Michael D Higgins at the organisation’s recent annual conference in Malahide.

Sal, who has worked in the NGO sector for over fifteen years - including at Amnesty International and Oxfam - joined colleagues in presenting President Higgins with the inaugural ‘Global Voice for Humanity’ Award.

The award, presented before an audience of nearly 200 educators, community leaders, and advocates, recognises the President’s tireless commitment to promoting global justice, human dignity, and inclusive education.

A distinguished statesman, poet, and academic, President Higgins has dedicated his career to advancing the values underpinning Global Citizenship Education. His voice has consistently challenged oppression and inspired solidarity.

Speaking about the award, the former St Mary’s College student said: “President Higgins has always been an inspiration to me and to so many people in Kildare and beyond. His belief in education as a catalyst for social change is something I’ve carried with me throughout my career. It was a privilege to be part of this special moment and to see his passion for justice recognised.” 

The conference also featured contributions from Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Global Citizenship Education through Irish Aid. Other highlights included tributes from Caoimhe de Barra, CEO of Trócaire, reflections from school children involved in Concern Worldwide’s global education programme, a poetry reading by Sarah Clancy, and a musical performance by Colm Mac Con Iomaire.

Sal concluded: “It was a great to take this moment to recognise President Higgins and his unrelenting commitment to education and community empowerment. We’re all part of a global community, and it starts at home - working together to build a fairer, more just society.”