Our Changemakers

It’s our people who make the difference.
Inspire Mentees 2023

Our Board

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As an advocate for “listening deeply and treading lightly,” Janene understands the importance of engaging with and understanding local communities in order to inspire and deliver effective action, movement building, and systemic change. Her experience with participatory research and co-design approaches aligns with Innovate Communities’ focus on community-driven solutions, and her passion for community storytelling underscores the importance of centering the voices and perspectives of local residents in the work of the organisation.
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Mick Creedon is a skilled professional with experience in research, management training, and community development. As Manager of the Ballymun Job Centre, he provides job training and employment services to local residents. With his research expertise, Mick has co-authored reports on unemployment and employer attitudes towards hiring. His broad skillset makes him a valuable asset to any organization seeking to make a positive impact in their community.
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With a proven track record of establishing successful businesses and advocating for the power of networking, his passion for start-ups and small businesses aligns with Innovate Communities’ mission to support and empower entrepreneurs. Liam brings valuable insight and expertise in economic development, business start-ups, and community building to the table.
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Anne Keating is a long-time community activist and Ballymun native. She has been involved in various community initiatives over the years, including the Ballymun Community Law Centre and the Ballymun Whitehall Area Partnership. Anne is passionate about community development and empowering people to take control of their lives. Her extensive knowledge of the local community and its needs makes her a valuable asset to any organization working in community-led innovation.
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Clyde Carroll’s strength lies in his extensive experience in retail and business management, as well as his ability to bring together stakeholders from various industries to drive progress and growth in Dublin’s city center. As Director of Marketing and Communications of Dublin Town, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives to improve the local economy, attract visitors, and foster a vibrant community. Through his collaborative and innovative approach, Carroll has earned a reputation as a strong advocate for Dublin’s city center, with a deep commitment to improving the quality of life and opportunities for all who live, work, and visit there.
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Mary Callaghan’s experience as Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin and director on multiple boards focused on creating positive social impact demonstrates her strong commitment to serving her community. In her role as Deputy Lord Mayor, Mary worked closely with community leaders and organizations to promote economic development and improve quality of life for residents. Her dedication to community-driven solutions aligns with Innovate Communities’ mission, making her a valuable addition to the board.
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Paul McAuliffe is a Teachta Dála (TD) in the 33rd sitting of Dáil Éireann, representing Dublin North West. He brings a wealth of experience in government oversight, having been elected as Vice Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage and serving on the Public Accounts Committee, which focuses on ensuring public services are run efficiently and achieve value for money. His dedication to public service and experience in government oversight make him a valuable member of any organization focused on creating positive social impact, including Innovate Communities.

Our Changemakers

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Elaine is our INSPIRE Programme Manager with a lifelong interest in social inclusion and a commitment to the wider community.
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Dr Donagh Horgan is a Research Consultant developing best practice in the area of regenerative placemaking and socio-spatial transformation, leading participatory research for the European Commission and partners – including FUTURE and Northern Ireland Cooperation Overseas.
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Aaron is our newest team member, joining us in December 2022. Aaron’s role is to conduct qualitative and quantitative research to help assess INSPIRE Mentoring and the impact of the programme.
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Marie-Clare, joined the team in 2022 and working on a part-time basis manages our INSPIRE Digital Platform, ensuring that quality mentoring relationships are happening. She also manages our video content and social media, helping grow our online engagement.
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Sandra has worked in local development for several years and has managed the finance function for numerous large projects as well as several programmes funded by the HSE, Pobal, Solas, Department of Social Protection and City of Dublin Youth Service Board and EU funded programmes.
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Fiona is the CEO and Co-Founder of Innovate Communities. Fiona launched the social enterprise in 2015, to co-create and co-develop commercial and non-commercial solutions to community and wicked problems, underpinning the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
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Annabelle is a Social Innovation Manager with Innovate Communities and has been responsible for the development and management of the Social Innovation Hub in Ballymun since inception.
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Tom is a social innovation manager with Innovate Communities and has extensive experience of change processes within the private, public, higher education and social sectors.

Learn More

About Us

Bringing together champions of positive social change in communities to solve the issues of our time

Our Partners

Who we work with to enact social change

Our Awards

Find our more about our award-winning work

Speak to the Team

We’re happy to help answer any questions you might have