14/06/2026
Rekekah Connolly Becomes Youngest-Ever Chairperson of National Women’s Council
14/06/2026
The National Women’s Council (NWC) has elected Rebekah Connolly as its youngest-ever Chairperson, marking a significant moment for the organisation as it continues its work advancing women’s rights and equality across Ireland.
Connolly, who has served on the NWC board since 2024, will hold the role for a two-year term until 2028. She is also a member of the Irish Observatory on Violence Against Women and works as Head of the Content Information team and Gender, Sexuality & Relationships Editor at Spunout. Her work focuses on mental health, sexuality, sexual health, and trauma, particularly in relation to young people.
Speaking following her election, Connolly said she was honoured to take on the role.
“I am honoured to have been elected as the youngest-ever Chair of the National Women’s Council, which represents almost 200 member organisations across Ireland. I am a firm believer in the empowerment of women through community action,” she said.
She added that she is passionate about inclusive policy that reflects the needs of minority groups and people of different abilities, and intends to bring this perspective to the organisation’s work on gender equality.
Connolly will be joined by Anne Waithira Burke as Deputy Chair, alongside nine newly elected board members for the 2026–2028 term: Norah Burns, Rhiannon Clarke Downey, Vivienne Glanville, Mary Louise Lynch, Margaret Martin, Dr Jennifer Okeke, Shirley Scott, Christina Sherlock, and Paula Soraghan.
The announcement was made at the NWC’s Annual General Meeting, where the organisation also launched its 2025 Annual Report titled “Time to Act for Women’s Rights and Equality.” The report outlines the wide range of activities, events, and initiatives carried out throughout the year, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges in advancing gender equality.
The NWC extended its gratitude to supporters and member organisations, acknowledging their role in driving forward its work and impact over the past year.
National Women's Council of Ireland
