Exceptional Achievements from Co-Ordinator, Catherine Cooke

At FWIN, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of one of our own—Catherine Cooke, a fierce advocate, bridge-builder, and tireless community leader. Catherine was recently recognised as an honoured runner-up for the Community Relations Council Exceptional Achievement Award, and today we joined others at Shankill Women’s Centre to celebrate her outstanding contribution to peacebuilding and community development across Northern Ireland.

Catherine’s work spans decades, and her impact has rippled across divides, generations, and communities. Whether working quietly behind the scenes or leading from the front, she has consistently shown what it means to lead with compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment to inclusion.

The Exceptional Achievement Award honours individuals who have gone above and beyond to promote community relations, mutual understanding, and reconciliation. That’s exactly what Catherine has done—through every conversation facilitated and every programme delivered.

Her efforts have helped foster understanding between communities historically divided by conflict and mistrust. And she has done it all with humility, warmth, and a fierce belief in the power of people.

Gathering at Shankill Women’s Centre to celebrate her was more than a recognition—it was a reminder of how vital this kind of leadership is in our shared work toward peace. In a room filled with allies, friends, and fellow changemakers, the atmosphere was one of deep respect and admiration.

Join us in sending a huge congratulations to Catherine Cooke—your leadership continues to inspire us all.