Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark and AlanJames Burns Honoured with National Award
Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark and artist AlanJames Burns have been recognised with the prestigious Irish Life Creativity in the Community Award at the 34th Business to Arts Awards for their groundbreaking cross-border initiative, Divergently Together.
The award celebrates the impact of the innovative project, which has empowered neurodivergent and disabled people to play an active role in climate action, sustainability and environmental decision-making across counties Cavan, Fermanagh and Tyrone.
Developed through a unique partnership between Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, with Cavan County Council and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and internationally acclaimed artist AlanJames Burns, Divergently Together places neurodivergent perspectives at the heart of conversations surrounding climate resilience, accessibility and environmental stewardship. Through a programme of creative workshops, exhibitions, community engagement activities and collaborative research, participants were supported to share their experiences and help shape more inclusive approaches to environmental participation.
The project has delivered a range of practical outcomes, including accessible "Know Before You Go" resources, sensory-friendly visitor supports and inclusive communication strategies that have been adopted across Geopark sites and partner organisations. These improvements are helping to ensure that the natural heritage of the region is more welcoming and accessible to all.

Councillor John Paul Feeley, Chair of the Geopark Committee said:
"We are incredibly proud to receive the Irish Life Creativity in the Community Award alongside Alan James Burns and the participants who have been at the centre of Divergently Together. This recognition reflects the power of creativity to bring people together, amplify voices that are often underrepresented, and create meaningful change within our communities. The project has demonstrated that environmental action is strongest when everyone has the opportunity to contribute."
Artist AlanJames Burns added:
"Divergently Together has been shaped by the creativity, insight and lived experiences of participants across the region. It has been an inspiring journey that has challenged traditional approaches to climate engagement and accessibility. I'm delighted to see this work recognised nationally through the Business to Arts Awards."
The award recognises not only the artistic excellence of the project but also its lasting social and environmental impact. By bringing together community members, policymakers, businesses and advocacy groups, Divergently Together has created new pathways for participation and inclusion, reaching more than 45,000 people through its activities and outreach.
Divergently Together is a project led by AlanJames Burns with Rinn AI at Dublin City University, principally funded by Creative Ireland and Research Ireland.
As a cross-border UNESCO Global Geopark, Cuilcagh Lakelands is committed to connecting people with the region's outstanding natural heritage while promoting sustainable development, education and community wellbeing. The success of Divergently Together highlights the Geopark's ongoing commitment to innovation, accessibility and meaningful community engagement.
This national recognition reinforces the value of creative partnerships in addressing social and environmental challenges and demonstrates how the arts can help build more inclusive, resilient and connected communities.