Bridging the Gap: A Celebration of Resilience and Opportunity
Eoin Fitzgerald, basis.point Chairperson, expresses gratitude to our corporate and individual patrons and supporters
The basis.point Annual Spring Lunch, is one of the most eagerly anticipated industry events, and this year it lived up to it’s hype with a room buzzing with nearly 500 industry professionals. Held at the iconic Round Room in the Mansion House, this was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the power of education and resilience.
Eoin Fitzgerald, completing his first year as Chairperson of the basis.point Board, expressed gratitude to the organisations and in particular, the individuals who have pledged annual contributions, volunteered their time and talents and who are the lifeblood of the charity.
Welcoming incoming Board Directors, L-R Alan Meaney, CEO Fund Recs, Edel O’Malley, CEO basis.point, Eoin Fitzgerald, basis.point Chairperson, Meliosa O’Caoimh, Country Manager Northern Trust
He also welcomed new Board Directors, Alan Meaney, CEO and co-founder of FundRecs and Meliosa O’Caoimh, Country Manager for Northern Trust, emphasizing the importance of introducing new energy.
The event was a celebration of the collective effort to bridge the gap in education. Edel O’Malley, CEO of basis.point, thanked everyone for their belief and commitment, highlighting that the €7.3 million pledged to education is proof that our industry collaboration is gaining momentum.
This year, the focus was on the role we can play in bridging the gap. Sarah Stefan, a Teen-Turn alumna, introduced the work of Teen-Turn, showcasing the impact of their initiatives and introducing a young lady, Leona Egan, whom she remembers mentoring throughout her early interactions with Teen Turn.
Leona, with humour, resilience, and a confidence that belied her young age, captivated the audience as she shared her personal journey.
Leona Egan, Teen-Turn ambassador and student at Trinity College Dublin
Overcoming partial hearing loss from an early age, economic disadvantage, and exposure to substance abuse within her community, Leona’s story is one of triumph against the odds.
When the opportunity to participate in Teen-Turn activities arose, she seized it with both hands. Supported by the Teen-Turn family of tech-savvy young ladies, Leona continued her education and is now well on her way to a degree in Science through the Trinity Access Programme.
This year’s event was made possible by the generosity of lead sponsors Confluence, The Panel Search and Selection, and Northern Trust. We also extend special gratitude to those who donated experiences and unique items for auction, and to the volunteers from PwC, Maples, and KPMG, who worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success.
Conor McGuiness, Waystone receives his Chicago Marathon Medal from Eve Finn, basis.point Board Director
The personal endeavours to push outside their comfort zones of two longstanding Patrons, Conor McGuinness and Niall Cribbon, were also honoured. Conor ran the Chicago Marathon in 2024 and along with his Waystone colleagues raised €40,000 to help level the playing field for young people experiencing disadvantage.
This year it will be Niall’s turn as he attempts to summit Peak Lennin during the summer. It is still possible to help him reach his target of €50,000 by donating to his fundraising page.
basis.point is on the cusp of a new threshold, with hopes that the next decade will bring renewed commitment and wider industry buy-in. The goal is to create brighter futures for young people experiencing disadvantage, ensuring that no child is left behind. If you would like to deepen your engagement, consider becoming an individual Patron or Supporter.
Full picture gallery with table photos below, photo credits to John Ohle and Sara Hanley.
