Sligo man Shane Keaveney (The Rapid Foundation) needs your help to fly the flag for Ireland at the Outstanding Young Person of the World Awards (TOYP) in Amsterdam later this year.

A global initiative of Junior Chamber International (JCI), TOYP concentrates on formally recognising young people who are making strides in their chosen fields and creating a positive impact on other people, their communities and society at large. Ireland has two entries on the 20 strong shortlist (Harry McCann from Kildare being the second) and your help is now needed, as a public vote will play a role in determining the winners.

Having two nominees in the top 20 is a major achievement according to JCI Ireland President Adrian Corcoran, who added that it serves as a reminder that Ireland can be very proud of the impact its young people are having on their communities.

Dyslexia Led to Success:

Growing up with dyslexia, Shane Keaveney had a perspective of the world that was much different from societal norms. But it was his challenges that led him to co-develop innovative technology applications that are uniquely inclusive and user-friendly.

Driven by his personal experiences, he co-founded The Rapid Foundation with longtime friend Colin Keogh. The Rapid Foundation project aims to empower people around the world by giving them access and training to disruptive technologies, enabling them to create and innovate to solve their own problems and that of their communities. The project has shifted the status quo of traditional methods by doing more than providing a band aid but ultimately supplying technology and training directly to local people, allowing them to develop grassroots solutions to their own problems. To date the project has reached more than 5000 people through education and outreach with plans to expand into Asia, East Africa, South India, Uganda and Rwanda. Through the Rapid Foundation, a gateway has been opened allowing access to shared digital manufacturing regardless of location, social status or wealth.

Keaveney’s personal growth and success continue to empower him to create opportunities for those that are being hindered by their own challenges. His simple forward thinking takes a new approach to an existing problem, allowing others to become change makers.

Listen below to the full interview with Tommy Marren now and vote here to help Shane into the final ten - https://toyp.jci.cc/