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 the organisation they’re involved with. A gift that celebrates their service while investing in the future.
Kieran Kent is a recipient in the Inspirational Young Person category, for under 30s making an outstanding contribution to community life.
Kieran Kent, recipient of the Fermanagh Civic Honour Award
Kieran is a proud volunteer with JustUs, a local social group for adults with disabilities. He’s known for his infectious enthusiasm, sense of fun, and deep commitment to making sure everyone feels welcome and included.
“It’s one big family” says Kieran, who will soon turn 29. “It’s fun. We’re all dancing, having a good laugh, a good time.”
Kieran, who has learning and sensory difficulties, first came to JustUs three years ago. Since then, he’s become one of its most active and visible advocates, serving as a committee member and helping organise the regular events. From karaoke on Monday nights, football choir and dinner dances to the upcoming fundraiser with rowing machines at the Diamond 6th September and Summer BBQ 9th August at Enniskillen Rugby Club.
Kieran with Dad Graham and Mum Pauline
He takes great joy in welcoming others, checking in with attendees, and ensuring everyone has a positive experience. “It’s easy. I check with people in the room and see if they’re okay… and how do I feel when I do that? Good.”
Kieran is also passionate about accessibility and inclusion. At the pubs and different places they go in Enniskillen, the JustUs group have become regulars and staff know them by name. “If they’re not accessible, we vote with our feet and they lose 30 customers on a Monday night.”
His natural leadership is matched by a quiet determination. Kieran uses his digital skills to promote events, shares ideas with the committee, and never misses an opportunity to showcase the group. “I always put up on Facebook saying, ‘Can’t wait to see you there!’” he says proudly. “It’s good to have something in the diary.”
“Kieran’s love for the group is palpable,” says Shelley Cowan, founder of JustUs. “He attends every event, every awareness session, and is constantly advocating for the group, coming up with new ideas and helping out where he can. His smile, his enthusiasm, and his love for life encourage others to come along. He takes time with everyone.”
Kieran’s dad, Graham, has witnessed his son’s transformation. “He was a very anxious, quiet young man. Since volunteering on the JustUs committee, he’s grown in confidence and now represents all the other adults who attend. He’s so sociable now, the transformation has been incredible.”
Kieran currently attends Tir Navar Daycare in Derrygonnelly on Tuesdays and Safe Haven on Fridays. He recently sang at the BBC Sing event in Belfast’s Ulster Hall, and regularly performs with the JustUs choir at Fermanagh House. He’s proud of how far he’s come.
When asked to volunteer as a Committee Member “I just said yes,” he says. “Even when he’s away, he keeps in touch “I FaceTimed in from holiday because I missed everyone.” For Kieran, the group is more than a social outlet. It’s a way to build confidence, discover new experiences, and support others.
Tracey Committee Member, Kieran Committee Member and Shelley founder of JustUs
“Thanks to Shelley and Dad for nominating me. It’s very good achievement,” he says of his Civic Honour Award from Fermanagh Trust. “I get a sense of pride and feel very good. It’s important to fly the flag for those that don’t have voices. I get to speak to adults with disabilities and explain how they can benefit from the group.”
JustUs supports more than just its members, as Kieran’s Dad added “It is also for the carers and family, everyone gains, it’s a wider support system.”
And what does volunteering with JustUs mean to Kieran, above all?
“I came out of my shell.”
Know someone like Kieran?
Someone who brings energy, joy, and inclusion to their community? Someone who shows that volunteering isn’t about recognition—it’s about impact?
The Civic Honour Awards are part of the Fermanagh Trust’s 30th anniversary celebrations and include two categories:
Category 1: Inspirational Young Person – for under 30s making an outstanding contribution to community life.
Category 2: Community Impact and Legacy – for individuals who have dedicated 30+ years to service and leadership.
There’s no deadline, and nominations will be accepted throughout 2025.
CLICK HERE or email sonya@fermanaghtrust.org to find out more.