Louise Quill, founder of Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation, has been selected as Kerry Person of the Year by the Kerry Association in Dublin in recognition of the transformative work she has done supporting disadvantaged communities in Tanzania for the past 18 years.

Award Recognition

Now in its 43rd year, the Kerry Person of the Year award recognises an individual who has shown leadership, brought honour to the county, and performed services for the county to the extent that could be described as beyond the norm of everyday life.

Tralee native, Louise who is the main feature of the documentary “Kilimanjaro Mama”, which shares her story of why she decided to set up the Tír na nÓg Orphanage in Tanzania, what drives her and the impact it has had on her own health and well being.  Documenting the journey from Ireland to Tanzania this is the story of one woman’s dogged determination to give the children of Kilimanjaro the best possible chance to overcome the tough life they have been dealt.

Inspiring Work

Despite dealing with many challenges, Tralee native Louise Quill continues to transform the lives of the orphaned and abandoned children in Tanzania.

Louise’s work has led to:

  • The development of kindergartens and schools, including a massive multi-million-euro project completed last year.
  • Drilling boreholes to provide access to clean water and has initiated multiple water filtration projects providing thousands of people in underprivileged communities with access to safe drinking water.
  • The creation of sports and recreation facilities, playgrounds for children and the construction of a library.
  • More recently the building of a dental clinic has been completed, as well as a third sanitation system at the school for disabled children.

In receiving the honour of Kerry Person of the Year, Louise said

“I am truly honoured and deeply humbled to receive the Kerry Person of the Year award. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the incredible work of everyone involved with Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation. Our mission has always been to bring hope, support, and brighter futures to children who need it most, and this award affirms the importance of that work. I want to thank the people of Kerry for their unwavering support and belief in our cause. Together, we are making a difference, and I am proud to share this moment with all of you.”