Nikki receives Gold Global Citizen Award

By Laura Lyne

A STUDENT from Tallaght has been recognised for her work on global development and local volunteer work, after receiving the Gold Global Citizen Award last month.

Nikki Chatham (20), who lives in Ardmore and grew up in Fettercairn, received the award following a trip to Mexico, which saw her volunteer with community based projects in the country.

She took the trip after receiving an Access Travel Award last year, and has since become a member of the EIL Ireland’s Global Education Committee while representing the EIL at the UN, volunteering locally and working on her degree in Community and Youth Work in Maynooth.

Speaking to The Echo, Nikki said: “It’s unbelievable, there have been so many opportunities opened for me. Since going to Mexico, I’ve gained a passion for global development which has changed my potential career path.

“My experience in Mexico is something that I can bring to my work in Springfield and Fettercairn. Global development has so many areas that can be applied here, including the areas of Fatima and Bluebell where I’ve also worked.

“As part of my course we go on a placement each year, and my final placement will be in Sydney, Australia where I’ll get to see the differences there in my area of work.”

Nikki was also recognised by her university last month, and received the Maynooth University Student Achievement Award from the president of the university and the director of access Rose Ryan.

Next month, Nikki will head to Thailand to volunteer in a women’s empowerment project for two months, as part of a Global Awareness Programme Award from EIL Ireland where she will volunteer on the new UN Sustainable Development Goals, on Goal 5 Gender Equality.

She said: “I’ve learned that I like to travel, and I’ve learned about myself. I do think that I’ll end up travelling after my degree.

“The award keeps the light going, it enables me to keep sharing my story and to take part in more global programmes.”