In April, Deirdre Kenny became the new CEO of One in Four Ireland. As former Advocacy Director, Deirdre brings in-depth experience and is hugely respected in the justice system for her work and interventions for survivors. Dive into our Q&A blog post below to learn more about Deirdre and her vision for One in Four.

Deirdre, Congratulations! What are you most excited about taking on this new role?

Thank you! I'm most excited about the opportunity to lead One in Four and continue the incredible work. This organisation has been a beacon of hope and healing for so many, and I'm honoured to be entrusted with its future.

I am eager to build on the strong foundation laid by my predecessor, Maeve Lewis, and to work with our dedicated team and board to further our mission and impact.

 What has been your biggest learning so far since stepping into your new role?

My biggest learning has been the importance of effective communication and collaboration across all levels of the organisation. Leading a team requires clear communications, active listening, and the ability to bring diverse perspectives together towards a common goal. I've also gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities involved in strategic decision-making and the need to balance various priorities and stakeholder interests.

 And looking forward, what will your first six months look like?

I’ll be focused on several key areas in my first six months. I’ve been engaging with our team members and stakeholders to gather insights, understand their perspectives, and build strong relationships. I'll be working closely with the board and management team to develop a strategic plan that aligns with our mission and vision.

I’ll also be actively engaging with community partners to raise greater awareness about our cause and the critical services we provide. Fostering collaborative relationships and building a strong network of support is paramount in amplifying our impact and driving positive change.

  

“It is never lost on me that our efforts can transform lives and create lasting change.”

 

In mentioning a new strategic plan, what is your vision for One in Four?

My vision is for One in Four to be a driving force in creating a society where child sexual abuse is no longer a taboo subject, but rather a collective responsibility we all share in preventing. By fostering an environment of support, understanding, and courageous conversations, we will inspire individuals, communities, and institutions to unite in our mission.

I envision One in Four as the catalyst for this paradigm shift, empowering survivors, educating stakeholders, and advocating for comprehensive policies and practices that prioritise prevention, healing, and justice.

You have been with One in Four for years, what keeps you motivated?

After more than a decade at One in Four, I continue to be inspired by the profound impact our work has on clients and their loved ones. It is never lost on me that our efforts can transform lives and create lasting change.

I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with, and advocating for, hundreds of survivors over the years, and on a personal level, I'm motivated by the incredible determination and resilience they have all shown me. It inspires me to work harder and push boundaries. 

Also, our incredible team: from our front-line staff to our board members, they’re all truly passionate about our cause, and their dedication is contagious.

 How do you practice self-care?

Self-care is an essential part of my life; especially given the demanding nature of the work we do. To unwind and recharge, I find solace in the simple pleasures that nature has to offer.

One of the things I enjoy most is spending time with my beloved dogs. There's something incredibly grounding about their unconditional love and companionship. Whether it's taking them for a walk or simply cuddling up with them at home, their presence definitely has a calming effect on me.

Art and design are another passion of mine, surrounding myself with beautiful art and design elements also brings me joy and calm. I love curating my living space with pieces that resonate with me, creating an environment that feels like a sanctuary. 

These things not only help me relax but also remind me of the importance of balance, mindfulness, and appreciating the little things that bring happiness and fulfillment to our lives.

Any parting words?

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire One in Four community. Your unwavering commitment to our mission is truly inspiring, and I am honoured to lead this incredible organisation alongside you.

Thank you for this opportunity to share my thoughts and vision. I look forward to working collaboratively with all of you to further our mission and create a safer, more just world for all.