Five groups to represent Cork at national Pride of Place Awards 

Five community organisations have been selected to represent Cork city at the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026.

The awards, which celebrate organisations that demonstrate leadership, innovation, inclusion and a strong commitment to enhancing community wellbeing, will take place at the Convention Centre in Dublin next Saturday.

This year’s representatives from Cork have already been recognised as Cork City Pride of Place winners in their respective categories.

Among them is Graffiti Theatre Company, which was recognised in the creative communities category; Boxing Clever Cork, in the community wellbeing initiative category; and NICHE Community Garden, honoured in the climate action and biodiversity category.

Balance Children’s Charity was recognised in the inclusive communities category, and Meitheal Mara Bádóireacht youth programme was recognised in the community youth initiative category. These organisations will now go forward to compete against community groups from across Ireland and Northern Ireland at the national awards ceremony on Saturday.

Remarkable achievement

The Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Damian Boylan, said being selected to represent Cork city at the Pride of Place Awards is a “remarkable achievement in itself”.

“These five organisations have already distinguished themselves locally and will now showcase the very best of Cork on an all-island stage,” said Mr Boylan. 

“Whether supporting young people, promoting inclusion, improving wellbeing, celebrating creativity or leading climate action, they demonstrate the dedication, compassion and community spirit that make Cork such a special place.

“I wish each organisation every success in Dublin and thank them for the enormous contribution they make to our city every day.”

Organisers said as the five nominees have already been recognised as leaders within their respective fields, “their progression to the all-island finals is a testament to the impact they have within their communities”.

They also said the awards “provide an opportunity to showcase Cork city’s community spirit, innovation, and volunteerism”.

“Regardless of the outcome on awards night, each organisation has already achieved something truly special and remains a source of pride for Cork city,” they added.