Each year between 10-12 local women — unsung heroes — are chosen for their various contributions to the area, with large posters of the women hung outdoors and an award ceremony on the day.

Paula T. Nolan – Artist & Photographer
A celebrated Dublin artist whose environmental and social photography has gained national recognition, alongside her strong local advocacy work.

Bernie Walsh – Community Leader
Founder of Sunflower Recycling and a driving force in community development for over 40 years, championing social-economy projects and local employment.

Nathalie Crowley – Community Environmental Champion
Chair of Mud Island Community Garden and founder of the Repair Café, leading sustainability and community-building initiatives in North Strand.

Sister Maria Lawless – Parish Sister & Carer
A Daughter of Charity for over 50 years, known for her compassionate support of families and her long service to Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Sean McDermott St.

Maureen O’Sullivan – Public Representative & Volunteer
A lifelong volunteer and former TD dedicated to social justice, youth services, and advocating for marginalised communities.

Iwona Machaczka – Community Pharmacist
Owner of Strand Pharmacy, celebrated for her steadfast dedication to community health and support during the COVID pandemic.

Joan Phelan – Local Business Pioneer
A much-loved James’ Avenue resident who ran her local shop for 35 years and served her community through Credit Union volunteering.

Jane Ruth Savage – Carer & Community Supporter
A dedicated inner-city carer for 25 years whose commitment was recognised with a Carer of the Year Award in 2025.

Elizabeth Kehoe – Historian in Residence
A researcher who brings local history to life for communities across Dublin North Central in her role as Historian in Residence for Dublin City Council.

We can't wait for the 2026 festival

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Latest News

2026 Festival line up announced

2026 Festival line up announced

Our 4th #NollaignamBan festival music line-up is announced. Details of our award winning women will be announced shortly. Please follow our EventBrite page where tickets will be available from Monday 8th of December. All our events are kindly supported by NEIC, Dublin...

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Nominate your Heroes for 2026

Nominate your Heroes for 2026

We are on the lookout for nominations for the 2026 Nollaig Na Mban festival for the unsung heroes of Dublin's North East Inner City Community. We are looking for local women who inspire. The Festival takes place every 6th January. We still have a large list of...

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