South East Technological University (SETU) final-year student Shauna Kelly has been awarded the prestigious Social Care Ireland Student Award 2025.
The award was presented to Shauna, a student of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Care Practice, at the Social Care Ireland Conference gala dinner. The annual event recognises outstanding contribution and excellence in social care education and practice.
Nomination
Shauna was nominated by Dr Danielle Douglas, Programme Leader for Social Care Practice, who described her as “an exemplar of what this profession is all about.”
In her nomination and award speech, Dr Douglas reflected on Shauna’s journey, adding: “Shauna reminds us that social care is not just about policies and practice—it’s about people. Her ability to turn her lived experience into a force for systemic improvement is truly inspiring.”
Shauna’s achievements reflect the depth of talent and resilience across the Social Care Practice programme at SETU. She has worked extensively in advocacy, education, and service development—co-founding The Social Butterfly magazine, contributing to national conferences with EPIC (Empowering People in Care), and serving on a Quality Assurance Committee for prospective foster carers.
Lived experience
In her acceptance speech, Shauna expressed deep gratitude for the support she received throughout her academic journey.
“To be recognised for something I am so passionate about means more to me than words can express. Speaking up about my story has allowed me to accept that I am in fact no different to anybody else, and it has taught me to use my experience as my social care superpower,” Shauna said.
A proud care-experienced student, Shauna’s dissertation explores how trauma-informed approaches promote resilience in adolescents in care—research she intends to continue beyond her undergraduate degree. Her ability to combine academic rigour with lived insight exemplifies SETU’s student-centred approach to learning and professional development.
This award not only celebrates Shauna’s achievements, but also acknowledges the many SETU students who are thriving despite personal challenges, contributing every day to the betterment of individuals and communities through social care. As Dr Douglas noted during the award presentation:
“While this award recognises Shauna’s exceptional impact, it also shines a light on the passion and commitment we see across the programme.”
SETU congratulates Shauna Kelly on this well-earned national honour and looks forward to the continued impact she—and her peers—will have in the field of social care. To learn more about Social Care Ireland tap here.
