As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, the Fermanagh Trust is honouring 30 remarkable individuals whose commitment to their communities has made a lasting difference. Each awardee receives a £1,000 bursary to benefit their chosen organisation. A gift that celebrates their service while investing in the future. Among the youngest recipients is Emma Kettyles, an inspirational 18-year-old whose strength, determination, and big heart are making waves through her volunteering with Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.
Emma may be young, but her story already speaks volumes about resilience and purpose. Volunteering since 2023, she brings warmth, positivity, and grit to every task she takes on all while living with a complex medical condition that limits her physically but has never hindered her spirit.
Civic Honour recipient Emma Kettyles
“It’s manageable,” Emma says with a smile. “I just do what I’m able to do. If I can only stand for an hour at a bucket collection instead of two, they totally understand. That’s one of the reasons I love it, Air Ambulance NI work around you. There are no barriers.”
Emma’s journey into volunteering began after a deeply personal loss. A family member was involved in a tragic accident, and Air Ambulance NI were called to the scene. “It really inspired me to give something back,” Emma says. “It’s lovely to be able to do something in their memory and for my family too.”
Emma’s work includes street collections, information stands, cheque presentations, and awareness events, often the public face of the charity. “I love talking to people,” she says simply. “You get chatting to so many. I think people are sometimes surprised to see someone my age involved. They’ll say, ‘There’s not many young ones doing this.’ It’s nice to hear that.”
Emma is determined to change perceptions about volunteering. “You don’t see many young people involved, it’s mostly older people. But it shouldn’t be that way. Young people need this service too. So we need to be the ones helping fundraise for it.”
And she’s leading by example. Her involvement is already inspiring others to think about volunteering, including friends who are still “a work in progress,” she says with a grin.
Emma credits the supportive and flexible culture of Air Ambulance NI for making volunteering accessible. From adapting collection times to offering encouragement, the organisation has empowered her to do what she can, when she can.
“You just put your hand up when you’re able,” she explains. “There’s a group chat where we say who’s free. It’s not too formal. That makes it easier.”
This welcoming approach is essential, especially for volunteers managing health conditions or other life challenges. For Emma, it’s been transformative: “It’s built my confidence so much. I’ve met new people, gained so many skills and it’s helping me prepare for the future.”
That future includes college in September, where she plans to study Travel and Tourism with the dream of working in the hospitality industry. She’s already secured a placement at a local hotel.
“It’s a great fit,” says Emma. “And all this volunteering experience really helps. I’ve already learned how to speak to people, how to stand and present information, how to work as part of a team.”
Air Ambulance Northern Ireland is a critical lifeline. Despite being a charity, not a government-funded service, its Helicopter Emergency Medical Service responds on average to over two calls per day. That’s more than 6,000 call outs a year, delivering advanced pre-hospital care across some of the most rural and remote areas of Northern Ireland.
The cost of maintaining this service is significant, around £2.5 million per year and it relies entirely on donations and volunteer fundraising. Emma’s dedication helps ensure that life saving missions continue.
“It’s crazy that it’s still a charity,” she says. “But I think people give so much because they see the need. And when you live in places like Fermanagh, where roads are bad, you understand how vital it is. There’s something about putting on that uniform,” she says. “You feel like you’re part of something important.”
For Emma, volunteering isn’t just about raising money it’s about growing, connecting, and contributing. She also sees it as a message of hope to others: “Even if you have medical issues, it doesn’t mean you can’t do something. You just do what you can. There are always reasonable adjustments. Don’t let it stop you.”
Emma’s advice to other young people thinking about volunteering? “Go for it. You won’t regret it.”
Emma Kettyles may be one of the youngest Civic Honour Award recipients, but her outlook is wise beyond her years. Her courage, cheerfulness, and commitment are already inspiring others, not just to give back, but to believe that small actions, taken consistently, can build stronger communities.
“We wanted to celebrate people who reflect the best of Fermanagh,” says Lauri McCusker, Director of the Fermanagh Trust. “Emma is a shining example of what that looks like. Someone who overcomes challenges, who lifts others up, and who does it all with heart.”
Do you know someone like Emma? Someone who’s been the quiet driving force behind community events, youth work, or volunteering? Someone who inspires others and makes a lasting difference? Category 1: Inspirational Young Person: This category is dedicated to recognising individuals, aged 30 and under, who have shown remarkable dedication and passion in improving community life. These young leaders inspire others through their innovative ideas, volunteer efforts, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Category 2: Community Impact and Legacy. This category honours individuals who have devoted 30 years or more to enhancing community life. Someone who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and community development, leaving a lasting legacy through their tireless efforts and contributions.
There’s no deadline, and nominations will be accepted throughout 2025. CLICK HERE or email sonya@fermanaghtrust.org to find out more.