Prestigious award for Omagh woman

"AN inspiring finalist" was how Claire Bowes, from Omagh, was described when she was announced the winner in the Personal Achievement category of the 'Make It Happen Outstanding Achievement Awards' at the Gala Ball and Awards ceremony in Fitzpatrick's Castle Hotel, Killiney, Dublin on Saturday night.

The awards were established by Pat Slattery and Donna Kennedy Slattery to recognise individuals who have gone above and beyond in demonstrating dedication, innovation, and impact in their chosen fields.

They are about celebrating people who embody perseverance, creativity, and a drive to make a positive difference, both in their own lives and in the lives of others.

Each year, finalists are drawn from a diverse range of backgrounds. This year’s group included business leaders, community advocates, healthcare professionals, educators, creatives, and individuals who have overcome deeply personal challenges. While their stories are unique, what they share is resilience, vision, and a determination to use their experiences to inspire and empower others.

Finalists are selected through a rigorous evaluation process that considers the depth of their achievements, the scale of their impact, and their potential to bring about lasting positive change. Judges looked for qualities such as courage in adversity, empathy for others, the ability to innovate, and the determination to see ideas and values through to reality.

"Within this context, Claire Bowes stood out as a remarkable and deserving finalist, explained one of the organisers, Donna Kennedy Slattery.

"A business owner, PhD researcher, music educator, and proud mother of three, Claire has turned the challenge of sudden sight loss into a powerful journey of resilience and growth. Rather than allowing it to define her in limiting ways, Claire has used the experience to deepen her purpose and inspire others.

"Through her role as founder of Omagh Music Academy, she has created opportunities for others to experience the joy and empowerment of music. Her leadership demonstrates that determination and adaptability can open doors even in the most challenging circumstances. What is particularly striking about Claire’s story is how she channels her passion not just into personal achievement, but into uplifting her community, motivating others to embrace challenges with courage and hope."

She added: "Claire embodies the very spirit of the awards: someone who has not only persevered in the face of difficulty but who has shown creativity and leadership in carving a path that helps others to grow alongside her. She demonstrates that achievement is not only about personal milestones but also about the positive ripple effect one person can create.

"We are delighted that Claire's story resonated with a room filled with individuals who themselves have “made it happen” in so many different ways," she said.