Outsider.ie Diversity & Inclusion Award Nominees 2024 sponsored by Sport Ireland - Outsider Awards

Inclusive, impactful and inspiring change! The Diversity & Inclusion Award sponsored by Sport Ireland shines a spotlight on individuals and groups who are breaking barriers and making the outdoors accessible to all. We all know how transformative and life-changing the outdoors can be and these organisations want everyone, regardless of circumstances, to be able to feel this too. The nominees for this category have left us deeply moved and inspired.

You’re Invited!

If you’re a nominee, consider this your official invitation to the Outsider Awards, taking place on the evening of Thrusday 27 February 2025 in the Sugar Club, Dublin.

We are beyond thrilled to announce the support of our incredible sponsors, who are helping us celebrate all the brilliance of the Irish adventure scene. With their backing, it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable night! A special thank you to our title sponsor Sport Ireland, as well as our supporting sponsors: Craghoppers, Sustainable Tourism Network, Fáilte Ireland, and Salewa.

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We were blown away by the quality and quantity of the nominations we received this year. So, sit down, relax and prepare to left in awe by these incredible Diversity & Inclusion Award sponsored by Sport Ireland nominees.

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We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate another incredible year of Irish outdoor adventures!

Bridge the Gap

Bridge the Gap is an amazing initiative to promote women’s involvement in paddle sports in Ireland, both as participants but also as leaders within the sport.

It was the brainchild of Emer Carton, Diversity & Inclusion Manager at Canoeing Ireland, who developed the idea with colleagues in 2019, and it’s funded by Sport Ireland.

Alongside running programmes for beginners, improvers and teenage girls, Bridge the Gap has a leadership initiative for 35 ambassadors representing various disciplines who take action in their local communities. And the programme has linked high-performing female athletes across paddling disciplines, from SUP and kayak to canoe and sprint, so they can share knowledge and support each other, which has already had a huge impact on the sport.

Bridge the Gap faced some resistance at first but since 2019 has changed the face of Irish paddle sports – achieving gender balance on the board of Canoeing Ireland, electing its first and second female presidents, increasing female membership from 31-40% and keeping more teenage girls involved in the sport than ever.

And if you’re a woman who wants to get into paddle sports, Emer Carton has this advice: “Paddle sports are for everyone. No matter what stage of life you’re in, there is a type of paddling that can be enjoyed – whether you’re interested in the therapeutic side, recreation, adventure or competition.”

Trail Criú

Trail Criú is a trail-running club rooted in kindness and inclusivity that welcomes asylum seekers, migrants, and Irish residents together to share the transformative power of nature and community.

It evolved from She Summits, which was founded in 2019 by Alicia Christofi-Walshe, with the support of Maggie Lawler, Sarah Flynn and Farah Masoed, to make trail running more inclusive to women.

As Alicia says: “We understood how trails and outdoor spaces could be more than just physical paths – they could be spaces of connection, healing and belonging, and we wanted to create a space where the outdoors brings people together, especially those who may feel like outsiders in a new place.”

Trail Criú is underpinned by the idea that nature is universal. “It doesn’t require you to speak a certain language or come from a specific background – it simply invites you to show up as you are,” says Alicia. “For newcomers to Ireland, it can be a refuge from the challenges of adjusting to a new life. By stepping onto the trails, individuals often find more than just a path – they find a support system and a sense of home.”

What advice does she have for others who may want to set up an inclusive outdoors-focused community group? “Start with a clear purpose and an open heart. Listen to the voices of those around you, understand their needs, and be consistent in creating opportunities for connection. Foster an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered. And don’t worry about starting big, even a small group can make a significant difference.”

Open Spectrum

Open Spectrum is a popular parent-run activities club for children and young adults who are on the autistic spectrum in South Dublin.

Open Spectrum started in 2013 when two parents of 12-year-old ASD children met at a climbing event in North Dublin and decided that South Dublin kids should have access to similar activities. They held a public meeting of parents of ASD children and teens and had a good response. Since then they’ve slowly built up their menu of activities, which now includes surfing, kayaking, climbing, athletics and hill walking. The model is that a parent becomes a Parent Co-ordinator of an activity they think their kid would enjoy, they are vetted and then Open Spectrum advertises and funds the activity.

In 2021, they became a charity and have slowly expanded the age range of the young people they engage with from four to 30. They now have 400 registered members and 150 young people attend the activities regularly.

“Being outdoors in nature is in itself regulating for most ASD young people but because of their disability, social difficulties, possible health challenges and perhaps sometimes parents who are naturally protective they just don’t get enough chances to be outdoors and to take (appropriate) risks,” says co-founder Victoria White.

The activities nearly always book out right away, which is a testament to how enjoyable they are for young people, who can develop their social skill, physical fitness and agility. But Victoria says, it’s also important to emphasise the benefits Open Spectrum brings to parents, in terms of meeting up and supporting one another too.

Able Active

The Able Active app and project was set up to close the sometimes large gaps of accessibility information for people with disabilities, especially when it comes to outdoor spaces.

“For too long, individuals with disabilities have faced unnecessary challenges in navigating trails, facilities, and amenities due to a lack of clear and reliable data,” says Sarah Kerrigan, the project’s co-ordinator. Adrian Geissel, the founder of Able Active, saw the opportunity to leverage technology to address these inequities, combining innovation, lived experiences, and community input to ensure that outdoor spaces are welcoming and accessible to everyone.

“While many of us simply grab boots and a coat before heading out, people with disabilities have a much longer checklist to prepare for even a short outdoor activity, which includes a detailed understanding of the suitability of environs, facilities and services to their particular needs,” she says.

In addition to showing location-specific weather, daylight, and tides (where applicable), the app supports the location of enabling equipment (e.g. beach wheelchairs), safety equipment (e.g. AEDs) and, based on community-sourced data, suitable parking spots, toilets, and hazards.

“Our innovation for Able Active continues to evolve as we listen to our users and engage with amenity operators, but our mission to foster inclusive participation in outdoor activities remains core to our being,” says Sarah.

Clare Local Development Company & Clare Sports Partnership

Clare Local Development Company and Clare Sports Partnership have developed an innovative digital system using 360-degree video, 3D drone mapping, and app-based tools to enhance trail accessibility for users with disabilities.

Rural recreation officer, Eoin Hogan, says trail accessibility has been on his mind since he started working in trail development 15 years ago. “Sport Ireland and the Irish Wheelchair Association developed a guidance report and training course focusing on accessibility in the outdoors. I attended the course and enjoyed the insights into the challenges of accessing the outdoors for people with disabilities,” he says.

For Eoin, inclusive access to the outdoors is a matter of fairness. “Everyone should have the right to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors and in nature, whether you have a disability or not,” he says. “The benefits of increased mental wellbeing from being outdoors and reduced stress are important for all.”

He hopes the legacy of this project will be that it allows trail and outdoor recreation site managers to assess their sites for accessibility in an efficient way.

“Managing accessibility is a changing process rather than a one-off and the system allows progress to be managed and measured,” he says. “This information will be viewable to a potential visitor so they can plan their visit – they can see 360-degree video of the recreational site, they can jump straight to accessibility points highlighted in the audit survey and assess if they feel they can manage this section.”

Roam Wild

Roam Wild launched a series of autism and ADHD-friendly rock climbing sessions this year to encourage and support the unique needs of neurodivergent participants.

The initiative began with a five-week introductory programme in collaboration with the Kerry Recreation and Sports Programme at the stunning Gap of Dunloe, allowing participants to gain a sense of freedom and empowerment in a breathtaking natural setting.

The sessions differ from regular climbing classes in several ways – they are highly structured, with clear and predictable routines, while remaining flexible to adapt to individual needs. Sensory-friendly approaches are used, such as using sheltered crags in wet or windy weather. And the emphasis is placed on achieving personal milestones and fostering enjoyment, rather than competing or adhering to fixed performance metrics.

This thoughtful design allows neurodivergent participants to thrive, developing their climbing skills at a pace that suits their needs while building confidence and resilience.

Access to the outdoors challenges the limitations and expectations often placed on neurodivergent teens and adults, fostering a sense of achievement and breaking down barriers.

Climbing in particular, provides a unique platform to showcase abilities, redefine personal potential, and build confidence in a supportive environment. Recognising the value of this experience, Roam Wild is set to extend the programme with indoor climbing sessions during the winter months, ensuring continuity and year-round accessibility.

Nature Therapy Ireland

Nature Therapy Ireland – led by Sarah Hourigan – has been doing amazing work with Vision Sports Ireland and Vision Ireland to reconnect blind and vision impaired people with nature, to benefit their physical health and mental wellbeing in an inclusive and accessible way.

Many people, particularly those who are blind and vision impaired, often face significant barriers when it comes to accessing nature and outdoor spaces, says Sarah, so when Vision Sports Ireland and Vision Ireland reached out to her hoping she would be able to tailor Nature Therapy Ireland’s work for their communities she was excited to help.

Nature Therapy Ireland began weekly online nature connection sessions with Vision Sports Ireland in 2021 and with Vision Ireland in 2023. These sessions allow blind and vision-impaired people from across Ireland to learn about the power of nature connection and to be guided through a detailed nature visualisation that allows people to experience a walk through an Irish landscape from the comfort and safety of their own homes.

But for Sarah, the most exciting part of this work has been the seasonal forest bathing walks they’ve done with Vision Ireland around the country. “These three-hour walks with sighted guide volunteers create access for blind and vision impaired people to immerse themselves deep in nature,” she says.

Participants emphasise how thrilled they feel to have the opportunity. “Spaces like this are not accessible for me at all anymore so this is such a joy,” said one participant, while another added: “Getting to sit in a forest for three hours is so beautiful. Being guided to explore the sounds, smells, textures, and sensations has been so special.”

Crosscare Outdoor

Crosscare – an Irish youth organization with a dedicated team of twelve outdoor education specialists – is using the power of nature to connect with young people from mainstream backgrounds to those involved in crime and trauma, fostering growth and change through outdoor learning.

The initiative began with a shared vision to engage vulnerable youth through innovative methods. “We wanted to create a meaningful way to support young people in difficult situations,” says one team member. Working across Dublin, the team addresses a wide range of challenges, from behavioral issues and skills acquisition to fitness and more serious concerns such as youth involved in riots, individuals with difficult upbringings, and those transitioning in and out of prison.

The outdoor education team operates through a combination of funding sources—seven positions supported by the Department of Justice and five through UBU funding. As part of Crosscare’s broader mission, a large organization with over 500 staff, the outdoor team plays a crucial role in tackling these issues. “Outdoor learning provides a unique opportunity to build trust, teach resilience, and offer new perspectives,” the team explains.

Through activities such as hiking, climbing, water sports, expeditions, experiential learning, and team-building exercises, they create safe and supportive environments for young people to reflect and grow. These outdoor experiences serve as a catalyst for positive change, encouraging personal development and fostering responsibility.

“By helping young people connect with nature, we aim to inspire them to connect with themselves and their communities,” the team shares. This innovative work is not just about reducing re-offending rates; it’s about instilling hope and helping youth envision a brighter future.

Their advice for others seeking to tackle social challenges? “Think outside the box, collaborate, and recognize the value of human connection through shared experiences.”

Crosscare’s outdoor team is redefining youth justice and youth work through the lens of adventure, proving that the outdoors isn’t just a space for recreation – it’s a space for transformation.

Safe Haven Ireland

Safe Haven Ireland is a trailblazing organisation founded in 2015, offering transformative sailing opportunities to young people aged 15–21. With a vision of fostering strong, integrated communities across Ireland, the organisation empowers youth from diverse backgrounds through immersive sail-training voyages.

On each voyage, participants – including young people from ethnic minority and asylum-seeking communities, as well as Irish nationals from inner-city areas – unite to become the crew of a yacht or Tall Ship. Over the course of a week, they learn to navigate Irish coastal waters, steer the ship, raise sails, and work as a team around the clock. What starts as an adventure at sea becomes a life-changing experience, forging lifelong bonds and promoting mutual understanding among participants of different cultural backgrounds.

Beyond sailing skills, Safe Haven Ireland’s programmes equip young people with leadership, teamwork, and communication tools. Many participants go on to excel in other areas, inspired by their time aboard. One former trainee now represents non-Irish youth as a National Youth Council of Sail Training Ireland Youth Ambassador, while others have joined local sports teams and clubs, furthering integration into Irish society.

Safe Haven Ireland’s dedication doesn’t stop at sea. The organisation collaborates with local youth and migrant charities to create projects in art, theatre, and environmental advocacy. Its innovative work continues to ripple through communities, fostering a truly diverse and modern Ireland.

Safe Haven Ireland’s message is clear: through shared experiences and a commitment to inclusivity, the next generation can navigate a brighter, more united future.

Irish Sailing Inclusion Games

Irish Sailing is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation, welcoming everyone irrespective of gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, race, minority community, or disability. This commitment led to the creation of the Watersports Inclusion Games—an award-winning, free annual weekend event that offers a variety of water sports for people of all abilities and disabilities, including those from the physical, sensory, intellectual, and learning spectrums, as well as individuals experiencing barriers to mainstream water sports.

The event is aimed especially at young people but caters to all ages, allowing participants, their families, and friends to enjoy an array of exciting activities such as sailing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, powerboating, motorboating, rowing, waterskiing, snorkelling, and dragon boating. The event also highlights the latest adaptations and innovations for inclusive waters ports delivery and promotes the health and wellbeing benefits of accessible participation. All activities and equipment are provided, and no prior experience is necessary.

In its sixth year, the 2024 Watersports Inclusion Games were hosted by Ramor Watersports Club on the stunning Lough Ramor in Virginia, County Cavan. This venue offered not only a wide range of water sports but also excellent on-shore accessible facilities right by the lake. Returning to the line-up were snorkelling and dragon boating, following their success at the Wexford Games in 2023.

This event is a result of the dedicated efforts of a remarkable group of club volunteers, whose enthusiasm, passion, and hard work truly create an enjoyable atmosphere for a day out. What distinguishes this event from others is the invitation for participants’ families and friends to join. If participants wish to have anyone accompany them on the water, they are encouraged to do so, enhancing the overall experience.