We are thrilled to announce that Alison has been honoured with a prestigious Bond Street Award for her exceptional contributions to community and social enterprise. The Bond Street Awards is an international programme recognising individuals and organisations that embody the highest ethical and professional standards. These awards celebrate achievements in fields such as innovation, management, research, and humanitarian efforts, with a particular focus on exceptional individual performance.

Alison’s leadership at Kilcooley Women’s Centre has been transformative, shaping the lives of countless individuals and strengthening the local community. Since volunteering nearly 30 years ago, Alison has driven change through innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Her dedication has not only benefitted women, children, and families in Kilcooley but has also extended to Bangor and rural communities.

As CEO of the only women’s centre in Ards/North Down, Alison has overseen its evolution into a vital community asset. Under her guidance, the centre provides outreach training, job-focused skills, and support for groups including the long-term unemployed, women returners, and disabled individuals. Her emphasis on collaboration between community and business has fostered partnerships that generate tangible progress, addressing inequalities and promoting empowerment.

A cornerstone of Alison’s vision is sustainability through social enterprise. She established Ladybirds, a childcare initiative that creates jobs while reinvesting profits into the community. She was instrumental in the transformation of a historic listed building The Old Market House,  and Gifted an event space and co-working hub, which earned the title of Emerging Business of the Year 2023.Her dedication to innovation and entrepreneurship has been widely recognised, with the centre earning the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2017 and Alison receiving the Commitment to Bangor Award at the Bangor Business Awards 2022.

Alison’s contributions extend beyond Kilcooley. Recently appointed Vice President of the Bangor Chamber of Commerce, she continues to champion economic and social advancement in the region. Her work exemplifies resilience, compassion, and a deep sense of civic duty, making her an inspiring figure in the community.Despite facing her own health challenges, Alison consistently prioritises the well-being of others. Her tireless efforts to support women in crisis, advocate for marginalised groups, and mentor her team have created a ripple effect of positive change. She has built a culture of inclusivity and support, inspiring those around her to follow her example of service and leadership.

Winning the Bond Street Award is a well-deserved recognition of Alison’s achievements and her lasting impact on the community. Her work brings distinction to UK life, embodying the values of the award programme and inspiring positive change far beyond Kilcooley.

Congratulations, Alison, on this remarkable achievement!