Waterford Student wins national award in recognition of her community service 

 Emmi Brennan, a transition year student from Ardscoil na Mara in Tramore has been named Community Hero of the Year at the 2026 TrailblazHER Awards, held at TU Dublin Concert Hall.

Through the Environmental Leadership Development Programme, Emmi independently delivered 56 sustainability workshops to junior students, inspiring awareness and action around environmental issues.

Her leadership in the Plant a Planet Campaign resulted in 474 native Irish trees being planted by families across their communities, making a tangible contribution to biodiversity and climate awareness.

The awards, organised by TU Dublin, celebrate outstanding TY students across Ireland who are already making a meaningful impact in their schools and communities. The event recognises students who demonstrate leadership, creativity, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.

The TrailblazHER Awards committee said, “Emmi exemplifies that leadership does not require volume, but vision, commitment and action. Her quiet determination, dedication, and focus on practical outcomes have had a lasting impact on her school and the wider community.”