'Passionate' Kacie is Young Volunteer of the Year at Laois Community & Voluntary Awards

The passion and dedication shown by Kacie Constantinou has her the Junior Volunteer of the Year Award at the Laois Community & Voluntary Awards.

The organisers outlined what the Award, which attracted 13 nominees, recognises.

“Every community has individuals who are boundless in their energy, who have that determination to get things done, who encourage, support, lead and inspire others in their community. This Award recognises the outstanding contribution that a person under the age of 18, has made to their local community,” said the Awards team.

The nomination citation said Kacie is an exceptional advocate for young people in Laois through her work with Laois Comhairle na nÓg, representing her county nationally, leading community projects and showing leadership, passion and a commitment to making a difference in young people’s lives.

The judges praised Kacie for what she does in her community.

“The judges were delighted to see that this nominee has shown such dedication and commitment to her community, which deserves to be celebrated and acknowledged. Her representation of her peers both locally and nationally shows a strong sense of leadership, which makes her an positive example to those around her.

“Her passion for issues such as wellbeing (both physical and mental) and her desire to make a difference in every aspect of her life makes her an outstanding nominee for this year's Junior Volunteer of the Year Award and we congratulate her for her community spirit,” said the judges.

This award is sponsored by the Laois Volunteer Centre.

JJ Carey, Chairperson, People First Credit Union, presented the category prizes to the winner and the runner-up, Leah O’Reilly Redmond . More below photo.

The nominations in this category were:

Misha Rehesha

At just 12 years old, Misha has made a remarkable impact through his volunteering with the Malva Ukrainian Culture and Art Group. Through cultural performances, community events, and charitable initiatives, he has helped build friendships, promote inclusion, and strengthen connections between Ukrainian and Irish communities across Laois.

Alex Leonard

Alex is a caring and compassionate person whose kindness makes a difference every day. Through his support for his younger autistic siblings and his willingness to help and include others, he leads by example, showing empathy, understanding, and maturity beyond his years.

Leah Shortall Bergin

Leah is a remarkable young volunteer with Knockmay Youth Club, giving her time each week to support activities for younger children. Through her leadership, kindness, and community spirit, she encourages active citizenship and inspires others to get involved and give back.

Leah O'Reilly Redmond

Leah is a young volunteer who tirelessly gives her time each week to support her local youth group and community events. Through her leadership, creativity, and confidence, she inspires younger members, helping them participate, grow, and feel included.

Katie Rose Harrison

Katie Rose is a devoted young volunteer with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team. Through her kindness, patience, and commitment, she helps create a welcoming environment where inclusion players feel valued, supported, and part of their community every week.

Orlaith Coffey

Orlaith is a valued young volunteer with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team. Through her kindness, patience and enthusiasm, she helps to foster a supportive environment where every player feels respected, encouraged and included, thus making a meaningful contribution to her club and the wider community.

Leah O'Sullivan

Leah has shown steadfast dedication to her volunteering with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team. Giving her time every Saturday, her warmth, patience and positive attitude help create an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected and encouraged to participate.

Hayleigh Breen

Hayleigh has shown exceptional dedication in her work with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team to support inclusion players. Her kindness, encouragement, and positive attitude help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected, connected, and part of the team.

Ellen McGree

Ellen has made a wonderful contribution to her community through her volunteering with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team. Through her warmth, generosity, and dedication, she helps create a positive and welcoming space where inclusion players can enjoy sport, build friendships, and feel a true sense of belonging.

Faye McCormack

Faye has shown exceptional community spirit through her volunteering with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team. By giving her time each week to support inclusion players, she helps create a positive, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels respected, encouraged, and part of the team.

Zoe Carton

Zoe is dedicated in her commitment to her community through her volunteering with the Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team and works to create a supportive environment where inclusion players feel welcomed, confident and valued every week.

Kiara Duff Pender

Kiara has dedicated her kindness, empathy and commitment to creating opportunities for inclusion players in Portlaoise Panthers Inclusion Team, thus building their confidence, enjoyment and a true sense of belonging within the team.

The award was presented at a gala reception in the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise on Friday, November 13.

This is the 17th year of the awards, which were hosted by Laois County Council in association with Laois Public Participation Network and sponsored by People First Credit Union, Laois Sports Partnership, Connect Laois, and Laois Volunteer Centre.

The Leinster Express / Laois Live is the Media Partner.