Hub 21 reflects on powerful Grow. Thrive. Shine. exhibition in Carrickmacross

One week on from the launch of “Grow. Thrive. Shine”, Hub 21 in Carrickmacross is reflecting on a powerful and inspiring evening that celebrated the children and families at the heart of the charity’s work across the North East.

The Down Syndrome Awareness Exhibition, which remains open throughout the month of March at the Civic Offices in Carrickmacross, features 44 children and young people who attend Hub 21, capturing their personalities, stories, and potential through a series of striking portraits.

The exhibition was officially launched on 9th March, exactly seven years after Hub 21 first officially opened its doors in Carrickmacross. Since then, the charity has supported many children with Down syndrome and their families across Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, Meath, Armagh, and beyond through dedicated therapies, supports, services and activities.

Hub 21 Manager Caitríona Crosby reflected on the evening: "Seeing these incredible children celebrated in such a public and positive way was deeply moving. The exhibition captures their personalities, their determination, and their potential.

_{Below: Louis from Louth is one of the children who attends Hub 21 and features in the exhibition}

"Seeing many of the models physically starting in front of their portrait, with their families observing and supporting them was particularly poignant. It is a reminder of why Hub 21 exists - to support children with Down syndrome to grow, thrive and shine."

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The launch featured inspiring contributions from guest speaker Dr Mei Lin Yap, whose powerful speech reminded everyone that people with Down syndrome must be seen, heard, and given opportunities to rise, lifting communities along the way. 

Mei Lin is the first person in Ireland with an intellectual disability to receive an honorary doctorate and she left everyone speechless with her inspiring life story and calls to break down barriers and make a more inclusive Ireland for everyone.

Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, and Councillor Paul Gibbons, Cathaoirleach of the Carrickmacross–Castleblayney Municipal District also pledged their ongoing support of families and local initiatives.

Local photographer Dalia Guzauskaite was responsible for capturing the beauty, personality and spirit of every child. Each photo comes with a little biography on the child. As the exhibition continues through March, it also highlights upcoming World Down Syndrome Day which takes place on 21st March, because it is the 21st chromosome that is triplicated in people with Down Syndrome.

The theme this year is loneliness. Children with Down syndrome are often “known but not chosen” - present in classrooms or playgrounds but socially on the outside. Hub 21 encourages families, schools, and the community to start conversations about inclusion and empathy.

One visible way to do this is through “Lots of Socks”, where children and adults wear bright, colourful, mismatched socks on World Down Syndrome Day  to spark conversation and symbolise that everyone should be included. Small gestures, like inviting someone to join a game or including them in a conversation, can make a big difference in helping children feel valued and connected.

"We warmly encourage the local community - families, supporters, volunteers, and businesses - to visit the exhibition during Civic Offices opening hours," Caitríona added. "It is a chance to meet the children we support, see the impact of our work, and start conversations that can help create more inclusive communities."

The Grow. Thrive. Shine. exhibition will remain open throughout March, offering everyone an opportunity to celebrate the children and families who make Hub 21’s work so special, and to reflect on the importance of inclusion in everyday life.