Former first lady of Ireland Sabina Coyne Higgins was formally presented with the Mayo Person of the Year award at a ceremony in Dublin at the weekend.
She was honoured for her work in the arts, social activism, and community.
The Ballindine native was accompanied by her husband Michael D Higgins, who served as president of Ireland from 2011 to 2025.
Ms Coyne Higgins has been a lifelong advocate for human rights, equality and education.
She was involved in numerous anti-apartheid campaigns and protested against the war in Iraq war.
She has also promoted sustainability and climate justice in her work with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The proud Mayo woman also enjoyed a long career as an actress and was a student at the Stanislavski Studio in Dublin where she went on to become a founding member of the Focus Theatre.
Her appearances in Chekhov and Ibsen plays reflected her enduring passion for the arts and her stance on big societal issues.
During the ceremony on Saturday, her husband was surprised with a cake to celebrate his 85th birthday.
The band played happy birthday to Mr Higgins and the audience sang along.
He was congratulated by former Labour Party leader and minister Pat Rabbitte, who is also from Ballindine in Co Mayo.
The other recipients on the night were the Meitheal Award winners, Cuimsiú Mhaigh Eo.
This is an initiative to promote inclusive competition at Fleadh Cheoil Mhaigh Eo for music performers of all ages who have an additional need or disability.
It fosters inclusivity and offers competitors choices, creating a safe and encouraging atmosphere where each performer can shine.
The annual awards are organised by the Mayo Association in Dublin
