Mayo company wins All-Ireland Business Foundation award

Westport based company, Education DESTY, has been named Social Enterprise of the Year 2024 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF).

AIBF honoured DESTY’s impact on emotional well-being and educational success, marking a significant milestone for the organisations.

Being awarded the prestigious Business All-Star Social Enterprise of the Year underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing educational outcomes and promoting emotional well-being among children across Ireland, the UK and beyond. 

With this accolade, Education DESTY is acknowledged as a leader in the social enterprise sector, exemplifying the profound impact that dedicated efforts can have on the lives of young learners.

Reacting to the news of her company’s achievement from her Aughagower base, educational psychologist and founder, Stephanie Fitzgerald, said the DESTY team are ‘thrilled’.

“Creating a positive social impact lies at the heart of our work, and receiving this honour shows we are on the right path.

“Together we empower children and young people to build their emotional resilience and to set ambitious goals for their lives. We dedicate this accolade to our mentors and, most importantly, to the children and young people who dare to dream big and find the courage to take the steps toward realising those dreams,” she added.

Announcing the news, Deputy Chair of AIBF’s Adjudication Board, Kieran Ring, called DESTY’s performance in the accreditation process ‘outstanding’. 

“Founded with the mission to empower children to become their own best, the company has consistently demonstrated exceptional innovation and commitment to social impact. Their unique approach combines evidence-based practices with interactive tools, providing children with the skills and support they need to navigate their emotional landscapes effectively,” he continued.

Managing Director of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, Kapil Khanna, explained: “We evaluate a company’s background, trustworthiness and performance, and we speak to customers, employees and vendors. We also anonymously approach the company as a customer and report back on the experience. The business goes through at least two interviews and is scored on every part of the process against set metrics.”

A key element of Education DESTY’s success is its collaborative model, which involves close partnerships with schools, community organisations, and mental health professionals. This holistic approach ensures that their interventions are not only impactful but also sustainable, creating a lasting support network for children.

Their approach integrates evidence-based practices with interactive tools, providing children with the necessary skills to effectively navigate their emotional landscapes. This unique methodology not only addresses immediate educational needs but also fosters long-term emotional resilience and well-being.

Education DESTY has meticulously developed a range of resources aimed at supporting educators, parents, and children alike. Their programmes are specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of young learners, particularly those grappling with emotional and social challenges. 

By placing a strong emphasis on emotional literacy and resilience, Education DESTY is setting a new standard for compassionate and inclusive educational environments. Their work is reshaping the way emotional well-being is addressed within the educational system, ensuring that every child is equipped to thrive both academically and personally.

For more information, please visit the Education DESTY website.