'Face the Phoenix Final 2026' celebrates outstanding student enterprise in Offaly and Westmeath

TULLAMORE Credit Union once again hosted the Face the Phoenix Final 2026 on Wednesday, 28th January at the Esker Arts Centre, where Transition Year students from five local secondary schools pitched their mini companies to an expert judging panel.

Students from Coláiste Choilm, Killina Presentation Secondary School, Mercy School Kilbeggan, Tullamore College, and Coláiste Naomh Cormac took part, with finalists selected following the judging held in school by Siobhain Arnold (Marketing Officer) and Caitriona Lawlor (Member Engagement Controller).

This year’s judges were Paul Shaw CEO, Caroline Collins Murphy Deputy CEO, Eileen Brophy Chairperson, and Matt Worgan Risk Manager.

The judges were so impressed by the standard of innovation and presentation that they introduced an additional award on the day: The Innovation Award, recognising exceptional creativity in product development.

Two new awards were also added for 2026, reflecting Tullamore Credit Union’s values: The Irish Award, highlighting excellence in Irish language branding and presentation, and The Sustainability Award, recognising strong environmental awareness and practice.

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The event also welcomed guest speaker Sgt Niall Smith, who delivered an engaging and informative talk on Money Muling. He highlighted how young people can be targeted by criminals to transfer or “mind” money through their bank accounts, often under the guise of easy cash. Sgt Smith emphasised the serious legal consequences involved and encouraged students to stay alert, informed, and protected.

Winners on the Day:

• 1st Prize: SJ Lights – Coláiste Naomh Cormac, Kilcormac

 Winning School - Coláiste Naomh Cormac, Kilcormac

• 2nd Prize: DRT Engraving – Mercy School Kilbeggan

• 3rd Prize: The Klutter Killer – Killina Presentation Secondary School

• Irish Award: Caorach agus Croí – Killina Presentation Secondary School

• Sustainability Award: Earthists – Tullamore College

• Innovation Award: Melting Meadows – Coláiste Choilm

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In addition to the student prizes, the winning school also received a monetary award, recognising the support, guidance, and encouragement provided by teachers in developing student entrepreneurship.

Tullamore Credit Union congratulates all participating students and thanks the teachers and schools for their continued support. The Credit Union looks forward to welcoming another group of talented young entrepreneurs in 2027.

If your school is within our common bond and is interested in taking part in next year’s Face the Phoenix programme, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact the Member Engagement Team by emailing marketing@tullamorecu.ie or by calling (057) 935 1780 to register your expression of interest.