NCBI’s 90th celebrations continue apace

90th celebration banner with balloons.

Sarah Chamney, CHI Temple St with Hilary Devlin NCBI

Senator Martin Conway with NCBI Chantelle Smith

Taz Kelleher & Geraldine Cartin

Ivan OBrien OBrien Press Paul Ledwidge NCBI Chairperson

We’ve had a mix of online and in-person celebrations to mark NCBI’s 90th year. These have included regular peer support groups meeting in person for the first time in over 18 months and a ‘thank you lunch for dedicated fundraisers in Carrick on Shannon.

This week we also had a fully Covid19 compliant celebratory function in Dublin with guests including staff, volunteers, Board members, service users, and corporate partners or donors. It was great to see so many supporters of the organization and we also had an excellent performance from Emilie Conway, a visually impaired artist.

This event also enabled us to announce the winners of our inaugural Vision Awards which recognize individuals and organizations for their leadership and example in helping to establish a more inclusive society for people who are blind and vision impaired.

There were plenty of nominations received so choosing winners was difficult. All winners were presented with tactile artwork designed by visually impaired artist Camille Peat.

Congrats to these worthy winners:

· Visible Difference Industry Award: Microsoft Soundscape for their work on an App that enhances accessibility for people who are blind or vision impaired

 

· Clinical / Social Care Award: CUH Temple Street for the ongoing collaboration and support of our Eye Clinic Liaison Officer service

 

· Circular Economy Award: The Useless Project for their championing sustainable fashion.

 

· Society Award: O’Brien Press for sharing their publications on our Bookshare platform ensuring students have access to their books/resources.

We look forward to the Vision Awards growing in volume and stature as time goes on.