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22 Oct 2025

Mayo man competing with Paul Mescal for Man of the Year award

The Claremorris man is shortlisted alongside the likes of Paul Mescal and Ronan Keating, and has worked with Hillary Clinton

Mayo man competing with Paul Mescal for man of the year award

Mayo man Luke Gibbons(centre), is nominated for two awards alongside Paul Mescal(left), and has collaborated with former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern(right)

Mayo man Luke Gibbons has seen his stellar work in climate campaigns for legislative change recognised with nominations in the Rémy Martin Irish Man of the Year Awards.

Luke will be present at the ceremony in May, where he has been nominated alongside the likes of Paul Mescal and Ronan Keating.

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Luke, a native of Claremorris, has a list of accolades as long as your arm. His research revolves around how company directors in Ireland, the United States, and Great Britain are legally obliged to tackle climate issues.

The 2024 Young Mayo Person of the Year’s work has seen him awarded with a scholarship from one of the pinnacles of academic studies, Harvard Law School, where he has collaborated with the likes of Hillary Clinton and Jacinda Ardern, former New Zealand Prime Minister.

At the forefront of Mr Gibbons’s message is the overarching duty of high-emitting corporations to shoulder the burden of climate action.

He is also the founder of Ireland America Young Professionals Group, who provide Irish immigrants in America with free access to accommodation and job supports.

His stellar 2024, therefore, has seen him nominated in a multitude of categories at this year’s Man of the Year event.

The first category where you’ll spot Luke’s name is ‘The Community Champion 2025’. Also nominated for the award are Paul Mescal, of ‘Normal People’ and ‘Gladiator’ acclaim, and musician Ronan Keating.

Next up is ‘The Educational Excellence Award’. Among the names on this shortlist are leading academic professors from around the country, including Maynooth University's Professor Joseph Coughlan.

The third category that Mr Gibbons has his hat in the ring for is ‘The Humanitarian Hero’. Ronan Keating pops up in this section as well, alongside Irish Sevens rugby international Greg O’Shea, of ‘Love Island’ fame, and former Ireland and Munster prop Donncha O Callaghan.

Lastly, you have the ‘Rising Star’ award. This is a stacked list as well, with Paul Mescal, Olympic gold medallist Daniel Wiffen, and TikToker Ryan Mar.

Speaking after his quadruple nomination, Luke Gibbons expressed his pride and excitement.

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“It feels a bit like the Oscars being on a list with the likes of Paul Mescal," he said. "I found out when checking my phone while out for a walk. I will just go to enjoy the night, it’s an honour just being nominated.”

The proud Mayo man also expressed his honour in representing the county in an event of this magnitude.

“I’ll be representing Mayo with pride," he said. "It’s a chance to celebrate all the great things Irishmen are doing, and I’m looking forward to a brilliant night with some inspiring people.”

The event will take place on Friday, May 23, in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Cork. Those wishing to book tickets to the black-tie event can contact mary.reale@histyle.ie.

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