Rosaleen McDonagh was given a standing ovation in recognition of her work in Community Development at the annual SHEROES Awards which took place in Navan, County Meath on October 2nd.
The SHEROES Awards, which is now in its second year is the brainchild of Yemi Adenuga and aims to be the platform which honours hardworking, self-sacrificing women who work tirelessly to make a difference within their communities. Yemi, who immigrated to Ireland from Nigeria, is a broadcaster and screenwriter; she also runs Cultúr, a community organisation which works with migrants to promote equal rights. Speaking at the event Yemi said, “There are many wonderful women within our communities that give endlessly and selflessly of themselves daily. They run businesses, lead organisations, manage households, support spouses, raise children, and more! And they get it all done without complaint and we want to recognise you and say thank you.”
Rosaleen, a previous winner in the Community Development category of the annual Traveller Pride Awards, is the first woman within the Traveller community to be nominated and receive a SHEROES award. She was commended specifically for her involvement in leading initiatives on Traveller women’s issues and Traveller health issues and was described as being a leading feminist in both the Traveller and disabled community. Rosaleen is currently a PhD candidate in Northumbria University, her working title is ‘From Shame to Pride: The Politics of Traveller Identity.’
Receiving her award, Rosaleen said she was thrilled with her nomination and felt humbled that she is considered a hero by her peers within her community.
Pavee Point would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rosaleen on her award and to thank her for all the work she has done for this organisation. Thanks to Traveller Voice Magazine for this report and photos.