Young Irishmen Award

The Young Irishmen Award was established by the Irish Heritage Club of Seattle to honor the memory and legacy of Barry Boyle, a proud son of Belfast and owner of The Irishmen Bar in Everett, who passed away in March 2025. 

Barry was known for his generosity of spirit and his belief in others—especially young people. He was hardworking, fair, and always willing to give someone a chance if they were prepared to work hard and prove themselves. Barry firmly believed that when young people are encouraged to pursue what they are passionate about and are supported along the way, they are capable of achieving great things. 

The Young Irishmen Award is presented annually at the Irish Heritage Club of Seattle’s Christmas Dinner Dance to recognize an individual who embodies the values Barry lived by: pride in Irish heritage, commitment to community, integrity, hard work, and a passion for making a positive difference. This award serves not only to honor today’s young leaders but also to ensure that Barry Boyle’s legacy continues—through those who, like him, dare to dream, work hard, and give back. 

Award Criteria 

Nominees for the Young Irishmen Award should meet the age eligibility requirement and meaningfully embody the spirit and values exemplified by Barry Boyle. 

  1. Age Eligibility 
    Nominees should be between the ages of 18 and 35 at the time of nomination. 

  2. Pride in Irish Heritage 
    Demonstrates and actively celebrates pride in Irish heritage by preserving, or promoting Irish culture, traditions, history, or community—formally or informally. 

  3. Community Contribution 
    Makes a positive impact within their local community through service, leadership, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, mentorship, or cultural involvement. 

  4. Strong Work Ethic & Integrity 
    Exhibits dedication, reliability, accountability, and fairness in professional, personal, and community pursuits, reflecting a willingness to work hard and earn trust.  

  5. Support of Others / Paying It Forward 
    Shows generosity of spirit by helping others succeed, offering encouragement and guidance, opportunity, and even second chances — particularly to peers and younger individuals. 

  6. Passion, Initiative & Follow-Through 
    Actively pursues meaningful goals, initiatives, or ideas with energy, purpose, and determination, reflecting courage, commitment, and follow-through on ideas or dreams, much like Barry did in his creation of The Irishmen Pub. 

  7. Emerging Leadership 
    Recognized rising individuals who are making an impact, demonstrating leadership through action rather than title, positively influencing others, and contributing to the strength and continuity of the local Irish community.  

Nominees do not need to meet all criteria; the award celebrates individuals who meaningfully embody the values, legacy, and spirit of Barry Boyle. 

Nominations for The Young Irishmen Award 2026 should be sent to MBarrett@irishclub.org by Nov 1 2026. Emails should detail how the nominee meaningfully embodies the spirit and values exemplified by Barry Boyle. 

Nominations will be reviewed by the IHC Board and the award winner will be announced at the IHC Christmas Dinner Dance on December 12th 2026.

Award Winners receive a $500 bursary, The Young Irishmen Plaque and recognition at the annual Mayors Proclamation Lunch during Irish Week.

PAST AWARD WINNERS

2025 Diana Jacobsen