From Passion to Power: Emerging Activists Trained at Alice Academy
The Academy took place from 15–18 January in Dublin’s Fumbally Stables.
Nineteen emerging activists from across Ireland were selected to take part, each working on campaigns ranging from the promotion of the Irish language to anti‑racism initiatives, school food reform, and early intervention for endometriosis. Over the weekend, participants received intensive mentoring across the full spectrum of campaigning and communications.
Workshops explored strategy and planning, community organising, coalition‑building, fundraising, political engagement, and media relations, delivered by a distinguished line‑up of experts, including:
Martina Quinn, Founder & CEO, Alice PR
Dermot Ryan, Chairperson, Alice PR
Niamh Breathnach, Deputy CEO, Alice PR
Emma Walsh, Digital Director, Alice PR
Baroness Margaret Curran, expert advisor and member of the UK House of Lords
Eileen Dunne, veteran journalist and former RTÉ newscaster
Stephen Donnelly, community organising specialist
David Stanton, former member of Dáil Éireann
Bernard Harbor, former communications lead with Fórsa and IMPACT
Jessie McCrone, Managing Partner, FMRS Advisory
Oonagh O’Donovan, Director of Strategy & Operations, OKC
Ailbhe Smyth, feminist and LGBTQ+ activist
Carmel Brennan, Executive Coach
The Academy is supported by Community Foundation Ireland and aims to empower grassroots leaders with the tools, confidence, and strategic insight needed to drive meaningful change.
More information about Alice and the Academy is available at www.alicepr.com.
Pictured at the 2026 Alice Academy for Activists were Alice Public Relations’ team of expert advisors (from left): Stephen Donnelly, Dermot Ryan, Bernard Harbor, Martina Quinn, Eileen Dunne, Paul-Michel Ledoux, Niamh Breathnach, David Stanton and Baroness Margaret Curran.
