The Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards 2021
Mums from all walks of life and every corner of the country gathered for The Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards in the beautiful surroundings of the Intercontinental Hotel in Dublin recently for a special luncheon.
Woman’s Way and Beko teamed up for the sixth consecutive year to host the awards, which showcases and celebrates Irish mothers and highlights their contribution across all facets of society.
The Awards, now in its 18th year, is the largest and most recognised national awards awarded a special recognition award to Justice Minister, Helen McEntee, TD. The Meath native became the first cabinet minister in Irish history to take paid maternity leave while in office earlier this year and was on hand to accept the accolade.
Louise Lynam from County Laois, was named the prestigious title of Overall Mum of the Year 2021. The Portlaoise native was named ‘Mum of the Month’ for April in the Women’s Way and BEKO Mum of the Year awards for 2021. The single mother of two girls, Jessica (15) and Kiera (9) has been working on the frontline since the start of the pandemic as a healthcare assistant in the Accident and Emergency Department. Nominated for the award by Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, Louise and youngest daughter Kiera are ambassadors for the charity and have fundraised for over the years.
James Patrice was on hand to surprise his own Mother Veronica ‘Fron’ Butler with this year’s Celebrity Mum of the Year Award. Veronica sprung to fame from creating videos with James on his social media content with hilarious results. She has since starred in Fair City and her star has risen considerably online. She joins an impressive list of previous recipients including; Nancy Ashmawy, Lucy Kennedy, Kathryn Thomas, Claire Byrne, Jennifer Zamparelli, Gloria Hunniford, Kathleen Watkins and a host of others.
James commented that growing up, his parents put everything into their children.
“They didn’t go on holidays, they didn’t go for dinners out - every penny went into singing lessons, drama classes and all the things that helped shape who we are today”, James added. “A mother isn’t just a parent, she’s a force of nature, and it’s an honour to be at the awards today surrounded by such ferociously fantastic women”.
Head of the judging panel Norah Casey along with her esteemed judges; broadcaster Nuala Carey, actress Aoibhín Garrihy, broadcaster Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh, broadcaster Louise McSharry, and fellow broadcaster Anna Daly, had a tough ask to try and find a winner amongst so many incredible mums.
Norah Casey commented; “After a difficult time, we are honoured to be back here celebrating the Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards. A common theme we celebrate is how the true heroes of our society are the mums who hold family and community together, who care for their loved ones, old and young.”
“The last two years have added even more obstacles than usual and yet again mothers have been to the fore. We are thrilled to have all the winning Mums here today, all of whom are inspirational. It’s always very difficult to select a winner but the judges were blown away by Louise’s story and we are honoured to present her with the very deserving award and title of Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year for 2021!”
Shane Kelly, Sales and Marketing Manager, Beko added: "We are delighted to be involved in The Mum of the Year awards and this is now our sixth year involved and every year we recognise how special an event it is. We know how tough the last couple of years have been for everyone and today is a real celebration of Mothers everywhere.
We’d particularly like to thank those who nominated a colleague, friend or family member in support of those in their communities who strive to make a difference.”
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