Diageo is one of Ireland’s leading companies, with a long and proud tradition of commercial success and community involvement. Through its world- renowned Smithwick’s, Guinness and Bushmills brands Diageo can trace its roots in Ireland back over 300 years.
Many of Diageo’s operations have long and historical links with their local communities and are committed to trying to improve the social, educational and cultural needs of these communities through their Corporate Social Responsibility programmes. Each year the company sponsors hundred’s of cultural and sporting events locally and nationally. This ongoing involvement in Irish life complements Diageo’s commercial and corporate commitment to Ireland.
The Diageo Rising Star award is an annual award recognising a student who is innovative, creative, and entrepreneurial and who demonstrates a commitment to ‘going the extra mile’.
The awardee for 2024 is Rebecca Donnelly, 3rd year Culinary Arts.
The first year of the award was in 2023, and the recipient was chosen from students in all years of the Culinary Entrepreneurship programme by the teaching team, year tutors and programme co-ordinator though a nomination and shortlisting process.
Sophie Kemp was chosen as the award winner in recognition of their creativity and innovation in the field of culinary entrepreneurship. As noted by one of the lecturers:
“Sophie has the ability to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions to complex problems, she always brings a fresh perspective to in class discussions and is not afraid to challenge conventional thinking.”
The award, which is sponsored by Diageo, is valued at €1,000. The official presentation of the award, by Diageo, took place at the School’s annual award ceremony.
Diageo also support the TU Dublin School Wide Cocktail Competition in School of Culinary Arts, in 2023 the winners were:
- 1st Prize - Samuel Lynch
- 2nd Prize - Nathan Farrell
- 3rd Prize - Ethan Holohan
Pictured launching Diageo’s partnership with TU Dublin are Dr Orla McDonagh, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Humanities; Geraldine Joanes, HR director Diageo; Constance Balsamo, Head of public policy, Dr Denise O’Leary, Head, School of Culinary Arts & Technology; and Dr Dominic Dillane, Head, School of Tourism and Hospitality Management.