Monday, 21 September 2026
As County Donegal prepares to welcome the 2026 Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora Awardees this September, one of this year's distinguished honourees, Brendan "Tiny" Vaughan, represents the generosity, community spirit and enduring connection to Ireland, and Donegal, that the awards seek to celebrate.
The Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora Award was established in 2012 to commemorate the centenary of the birth of the late Tip O'Neill and celebrates members of the Global Irish Community whose personal achievements in their chosen fields have brought distinction to their professions, communities and Irish heritage.
Brendan's lifelong commitment to supporting others and strengthening Irish community ties across the world embodies those values.
A native of Carraig Airt, Co. Donegal, Brendan left for London in 1982 and quickly became an active and respected member of the Irish community through his involvement with Tir Chonaill Gaels GFC and his passion for capturing Irish sporting, cultural and community events through photography.
Since then, he has lived and worked in London, Boston, Paris and Berlin, and has remained deeply connected to his Donegal roots proudly carrying his sense of home and identity wherever life has taken him.
Brendan is widely recognised for his dedication to charitable causes and community fundraising. In 2011, following the passing of his mother Mary, he established the Donegal Hospice Calendar in her memory.
Through Brendan’s continuous hard work, the generosity of supporters and his dedication to serving others in both Donegal and London, the initiative has raised over €240,000 for hospice services.
Brendan's commitment to helping others has extended far beyond this single initiative.
He has organised and led successful fundraising campaigns in support of flood victims, cancer patients and voluntary emergency services, helping to raise significant funds and provide support to families and communities during some of their most challenging times.
His efforts following the Inishowen floods, support for Rocco's Road to Recovery, Ellie's Wish to Walk, and fundraising in the aftermath of the Creeslough tragedy reflect a deep commitment to home and duty his community.
Perhaps Brendan's most notable contribution to the Irish Community in London has been his role as a founding member of the London Irish Vintage Club in 2011.
What began as a gathering of vintage enthusiasts has grown into one of the largest annual Irish community events in London.
Through its Charity Vintage Day, the club has raised more than £1 million for worthy causes across Ireland and Britain, while also strengthening connections within the Irish community overseas and celebrating shared heritage, friendship and belonging.
Speaking following the announcement of his selection for the 2026 Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora Award, Brendan still thought of others before himself saying:
"To receive the Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora Award is a tremendous honour. Though I have spent many years away, Donegal has always been home in my heart. I accept this award on behalf of everyone who has worked alongside me to support worthy causes and to strengthen the bonds of our Irish community across the world."
Announcing the 2026 recipients, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Gary Doherty, said:
"The Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora Awards provide us with a valuable annual opportunity to recognise exceptional individuals whose achievements have brought distinction not only to themselves, but also to Ireland and our global diaspora."
Brendan's recognition this year is a reflection not only his remarkable achievements, but also his unwavering dedication to community, volunteerism and helping other in need, core values that continue to unite Irish people across the globe.
His story demonstrates the extraordinary impact that one individual, committed to their community, can have in improving the lives of others and strengthening the bonds between Ireland and its global communities.
As Donegal looks forward to welcoming Brendan, his family and guests to Buncrana in September, his journey serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how far people travel, the connection to home remains strong.
Through his service to others, his pride in his heritage and his lifelong commitment to community, Brendan "Tiny" Vaughan has become an outstanding ambassador for Donegal and the Global Irish Community.
It is a great honour to have him home to be rightfully recognised with this award.
The 2026 Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora Awards will take place at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel, Buncrana, on Friday, 25 September 2026. Tickets available via Eventbrite.
For any further queries please contact info@donegal.ie.
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