Kayleigh McNamara is a Social Studies and Youth Work Student in Galway Technical Institute. She has previous experience in disability activism being elected disability officer in 2024 and 2025 of the Irish Second-Level Students Union. Before this, Kayleigh began her advocacy in passion projects on reproductive health awareness. Her personal experiences of accessing education as someone with mobility impairments alongside her work experience in the area has Kayleigh hoping to work alongside members to promote equity for students with disabilities in further and higher education. 

Cal De Nicolas is a 3rd BSc Psychology student at Maynooth University diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Having experienced the difficulties of navigating college as a neurodiverse individual, they have continuously argued for the rights of people with disabilities and are a strong advocate for equal opportunities within higher education and beyond. Their interest in intersectionality and human rights has led them to pursue placements in various settings including the EDI department at Maynooth University, where they reviewed the University's incoming EDI policy and in the February of 2026 Mental Health Reform and Exchange House Ireland. 

Elaine is an autistic mature student (late diagnosed) studying for a BA in Criminology in UCC, Cork. She also serves as an Access Ambassador for students living disabilities, representing the student voice. Elaine is passionate about making society an inclusive and accessible place for all with a special interest in those with hidden disabilities. She has over 15 years' experience advocating for both mental health and disability entitlements rights both on a personal and professional basis. For fun, she loves exploring bookshops and watching strange art house films.  

Sean is a 21 year-old Business and Human Resource Management student in his third year at the University of Limerick. Born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, he brings a strong sense of resilience, perspective and purpose to both his studies and his advocacy work. As part of his degree, Sean is completing an eight month placement with the Universal Design & Inclusive Practice division in UL's centre for Transformative Learning, where he contributes to projects that promote accessibility and equity across the university community. 

This year, Sean was delighted to join the students with Disabilities Advisory Group 2025/2026, a role that allows him to collaborate with peers who have diverse lived experience and to deepen his understanding of Universal Design in higher education in Ireland. Passionate about inclusion, Sean is committed to helping shape learning environments where every student can thrive.