Brenda O’Donnell remains a leading advocate for disability inclusion in Irish sport as Chief Executive Officer of Active Disability Ireland, drawing on more than two decades of experience in the sector.
Her successes in 2026 have included overseeing the development of a new national Training and Education Framework, launched in October to help sporting organisations, fitness providers and community groups create more accessible environments.
The initiative includes dedicated workshops addressing disability awareness, inclusive fitness and autism in sport, building the knowledge and confidence of those delivering physical activity.
O’Donnell has also strengthened the organisation’s governance and strategic capacity, overseeing new Board appointments and developing partnerships across sport, health and disability services.
As a Director of the Federation of Irish Sport, her influence extends into wider national policy discussions.
Her leadership is helping ensure that disability inclusion becomes a fundamental consideration in how Irish sport is planned and delivered.
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Previously named: Dr Una May, Suzanne Eade, Karen Dessain-Gelinet, Sarah Keane, Karen Coventry, Katie Taylor, Lyn Savage, Mary O’Connor, Moira Aston, Mary McMorrow
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This is the 14th year we have listed 50 Women of Influence in Irish Sport. We will add new names daily through early December.
We have an open nomination process, and you can nominate potential additions until our closing date of November 10th, 2026.
Nominations for next year’s list will open in Autumn 2027.
Our definition of influence is broad and includes those making a difference in how sport is governed, managed, and brought to life. This year’s list will include CEO’s, leaders, founders, coaches, storytellers and more. To highlight those who may be less familiar, we deliberately exclude those who are still active players in their sport.
We’ll host our Annual Women in Sport Conference at Lidl HQ on Tuesday, December 1st, featuring a range of national and international speakers and a room full of inspiring guests.
To reserve your place, you can book a ticket below.
If you would like to join the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the daily conversation around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
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