GALAS 2025 Awards Shortlist Celebrates LGBTQ+ Contributions

The GALAS, Ireland’s prestigious awards honouring the LGBTQ+ community, have revealed the shortlists for the 2025 ceremony. Scheduled for October 4, 2025, the event will be held at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre in the Radisson Blu Hotel. Organised by the National LGBTQ+ Federation (NXF) and GCN, the awards recognise the vital contributions of individuals and organisations that enhance the lives of LGBTQ+ people in Ireland and beyond.

This annual event, known for its sold-out attendance, celebrates the dedication of individuals who have selflessly contributed to the community, as well as allies committed to fostering inclusion and equality. Additionally, it highlights entertainers and artists who enrich the cultural fabric of queer Ireland. The ceremony also serves as a significant fundraiser for the NXF and GCN, enabling them to continue providing free, independent media resources for over 35 years.

Hosts and Musical Guests Set for an Exciting Evening

The I’m Grand Mam duo, Pj Kirby and Kevin Twomey, will host the 2025 awards ceremony. They will be joined by special musical guests, including Elaine Mai and the Glória LGBT+ Choir. Together, they will guide attendees through 15 categories that encompass activism, arts, allyship, events, and sports, recognising those who tirelessly work for a brighter future for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Reflecting on the significance of the awards, Anna Nolan, Chairperson of NXF, stated, “The shortlists for the 2025 GALAS reflect the extraordinary impact of people, organisations and groups who work tirelessly to uplift and support LGBTQ+ people across Ireland, in ways that don’t always get the recognition they deserve.” She emphasised that visibility and solidarity remain essential in building a more inclusive society.

Similarly, Stefano Pappalardo, Managing Editor of GCN, expressed enthusiasm for the shortlist announcement. He remarked, “This year’s shortlists highlight the efforts of individuals, groups and companies who drive real change for LGBTQ+ people in Ireland. Their work challenges prejudice, opens doors, and creates spaces where LGBTQ+ people can not only exist but thrive.”

Shortlists Highlight Diverse Contributions

The nominees span various categories, showcasing the depth and diversity of contributions within the LGBTQ+ community. The categories and nominees include:

**Community Organisation (Paid Staff)**
– Belong To
– GOSHH (Gender, Orientation, Sexual Health and HIV)
– LINQ Ireland
– Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre

**Community Organisation (Volunteer Staff)**
– Letterkenny Pride
– LGBT+ Restorative Justice Campaign
– Mayo Pride
– Trans & Intersex Pride Dublin

**Volunteer of the Year**
– Gemma Cooney
– Jude Copeland
– Mark Armstrong
– Richie Fagan

**Event of the Year**
– Dublin Dyke March 2025
– GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival 2024
– Queer Sheds / Faoin Tuath 2025
– Roscommon Pride 2024

**Joe Drennan LGBTQ+ Young Trailblazer**
– Eoin Murphy
– Fiachra Kennedy
– Jenny Maguire
– Lavender Jane Gartlan

**Sports**
– Cork Frontrunners & Briskwalkers
– Fionn Collins
– James Curry
– Pink Ladies+ Hockey Club

**Arts & Entertainment**
– Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus
– Gearóid Farrelly & Stephen Vincent
– Nazlı Yıldırım
– The Wild Geeze
– Noel Walsh

**HIV Activism**
– Bill Foley
– Dr. Erin Nugent
– Poz Vibe Tribe
– Rebecca Tallon de Havilland

**LGBTQ+ Ally**
– Comhaltas na Mac Léinn, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe
– Dr. Claire O’Connell
– Jeanne McDonagh
– Mammies for Trans Rights

**Outstanding Company (50+ Employees)**
– Catapult
– Children’s Health Ireland
– Crosscare
– eBay

**Outstanding Small Business (<50 Employees)** - Adonis Flower Designers - Bombshell’s Pole - Entheos Ireland - Insight Matters **LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group** - Aer Lingus Proud Flies - EY Unity Network - INTO LGBT+ Teachers’ Group - Pride@Accenture **Emerging Journalist** - Azmia Riaz - Christine O’Mahony - Conor O’Carroll - Mia Poland **Person of the Year** - Dave Thomas - Jenny Maguire - Lynda Sheridan - Paula Fagan **International Activist** - Joya Sikder - Viktória Radványi Tickets for the 2025 GALAS are currently on sale, and with less than a month remaining until the anticipated event, excitement is building. The NXF and GCN invite community members and allies to join in celebrating the remarkable achievements of those in the LGBTQ+ community. The GALAS not only honour individual accomplishments but also reinforce the ongoing need for advocacy and support within the LGBTQ+ landscape, particularly in light of global challenges faced by minority groups. Supporting the GALAS contributes to sustaining vital resources like GCN, which has served as an essential platform for Ireland's LGBTQ+ community since 1988.