Ballina student finishes in second place internationally

COMMUNITY NOTES: BALLINA - WESTERN PEOPLE (JUNE 23 EDITION)

Grace Cunnane, a student of St Mary’s Secondary School, Ballina, has been placed second in the International Young Reporters for the Environment competition, which featured outstanding entries from across 44 countries.

Grace, the daughter of Aoife and Enda Cunnane, Ballina, won the Irish national title in the Senior Videography category of this prestigious competition earlier in the year, earning a spot to represent Ireland in the international contest.

Her superb three-minute video essay, titled ‘Animal Farming’, probes the environmental impact of the overconsumption of animal products and commercial animal agriculture, with a particular focus on its effects on Ireland and the wider planet.

The An Taisce Environmental Education Unit runs the awards at national level each year. This annual competition engages young participants in environment-focused citizen journalism, encouraging them to investigate local environmental issues and solutions, and report on them through articles, photos, podcasts or videos.

Grace, who is about to enter Third Year, was inspired in her work by St Mary’s Secondary School English teacher, Jessica Wall.

Her video can be watched online.