MARK FITZGERALD, of estate agent’s Sherry FitzGerald, has been named as International Philanthropist of the Year for his work with a South African children’s charity.
Mr FitzGerald, the son of former taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, works with the Amawele charity which operates a cultural twinning programme between Irish and South African schools.
Accepting his accolade at special awards ceremony at Number 10, Ormond Quay in Dublin yesterday, Mr FitzGerald said 85 schools nationwide have been twinned with schools in South Africa over the last four years.
“The difference it makes is that it gives Irish children a greater sense of purpose and I hope it gives African children a sense of hope,” he said.
Now in their fourth year, the awards established by The Community Foundation for Ireland also saw U2 scoop the best national philanthropist award
The band, who are on tour in Argentina, was honoured for its work with Music Generation, Ireland’s National Music Education Programme.
The programme aims to help children and young people access vocal and instrumental tuition in their locality.
Businessman Leslie Buckley won the accolade for the best local philanthropist for his work in support of the childrens cultural centre, The Ark.
Previous winners include JP McManus, Niall Mellon, Declan Ryan and Chantal McCabe.
Tina Roche, of The Community Foundation for Ireland, said: “Philanthropy is now more important than ever. Our winners this year were all focused on enhancing young Irish people’s experience of arts and culture.”
