Our People: Innovation in Action Award

31 August 2026

The Irish Heritage Trust Innovation in Action Award grants recognition for employees who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, resilience, and forward-thinking through innovative ideas, solutions, projects, or events. The Innovation in Action Award celebrates those who push boundaries and drive meaningful change, complementing our Living the Values tradition.

We are delighted to share the two winners from our most recent awards in July 2026:

Grace Dignum – Irish Heritage Trust

Since joining the Trust last year, Grace Dignum has brought creativity, energy and fresh thinking to programmes that connect people with heritage in meaningful ways. As Programme Development & Outreach Manager, she develops and delivers educational, community and outreach initiatives that help keep our historic places relevant, accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.

A key achievement has been the development of an innovative Transition Year Programme at 11 Parnell Square, giving students insight nto careers in heritage and opportunities for hands-on learning across the organisation.

Grace has also led youth engagement initiatives, built partnerships with organisations such as Foróige, represented Irish Heritage Trust at the IMA Ed+O Forum, and is leading the Oral Histories project to capture and preseve local stories across our properties.

What stands out most is Grace’s ability to bring people together, creating new pathways for participation and helping ensure heritage remains accessible to future generations.

Ciarán Fitzgerald – Johnstown Castle, Estate, Museum & Gardens

Growing Innovation Through Biodiversity

As Head Gardener at Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens, Ciaran Fitzgerald combines horticultural expertise, creativity and sustainability to shape one of Ireland’s most treasured historic landscapes. His work focuses on the development, conservation and enhancement of the gardens while creating memorable experiences for visitors.

Since taking on the role, Ciaran has overseen significant changes across the estate, including the redevelopment of the walled garden and the restoration of the sunken garden. His innovative approach places biodiversity, native planting and environmental sustainability at the centre of every project, ensuring the gardens continue to evolve while protecting their natural and historic character.

Beyond the physical transformation of the gardens, Ciaran is passionate about encouraging visitors to engage more deeply with the landscape through carefully designed spaces, garden events and educational opportunities. His vision has helped create not only beautiful gardens, but places that inspire curiosity, wellbeing and a greater appreciation of nature.

Fáilte Ireland Employer Excellence Programme
The Irish Heritage Trust has once again successfully completed the Employer Excellence Programme with Fáilte Ireland recognising our commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment.