Lisburn 2gether Special Olympics Club has been recognised on the all-island stage after winning the Cities Category in the ‘Inclusive Communities’ section of the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026.
The awards, held on Saturday evening, celebrate the outstanding work being carried out by communities across the island of Ireland to improve daily life and strengthen community spirit.
Representing Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council at the awards were the Mayor, Councillor Brian Higginson, and Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, alongside representatives from three local organisations shortlisted in this year's competition.
Lisburn 2gether Special Olympics Club was nominated in the 'Inclusive Communities' category in recognition of its long-standing commitment to providing people with learning disabilities opportunities to develop sporting skills, build friendships and participate fully in community life.
Established in 2003 and officially launched in 2004, the club has grown from supporting eight athletes through bocce sessions to welcoming around 80 athletes from across Lisburn and the surrounding area. Athletes from the club have represented their community at Special Olympics, Regional, Ireland and World Games events.
Councillor Brian Higginson, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, congratulated the club on its success: "This award is a tremendous achievement for everyone involved with Lisburn 2gether Special Olympics Club. Their dedication to creating opportunities for people with learning disabilities, while promoting inclusion, friendship and personal achievement through sport, is truly inspiring.
"The club has made a lasting difference to the lives of so many athletes and families over the years and I was delighted to be there to see their efforts recognised at a prestigious all-island awards ceremony. On behalf of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, I offer my sincere congratulations to all involved."
Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, added: "Community organisations such as Lisburn 2gether Special Olympics Club are at the heart of what makes our Council area such a welcoming and inclusive place to live. This award recognises years of commitment from volunteers, coaches, athletes and supporters who work together to create opportunities and break down barriers.
"We are incredibly proud to see the club recognised through the Pride of Place Awards and thank everyone involved for the positive impact they continue to make across our community."
The Council also congratulated the other local nominees who represented the area at the awards ceremony. Dreamscheme NI was shortlisted in the ‘Community Youth Initiative’ category, while Resurgam Trust's Hilden School Project was shortlisted in the ‘Creative Communities’ category.
Their nominations highlighted the breadth of community-led initiatives taking place across Lisburn and Castlereagh, from supporting and empowering young people to preserving local heritage and creating opportunities for learning, enterprise and community engagement.