The LINC Programme and Mary Immaculate College Join Ireland in Conversation for Shine’s 2026 Green Ribbon Campaign

Pictured (L–R): Claire Butterly, LINC National Coordinator; Nat Horan, MISU President; Professor Dermot Nestor, President of Mary Immaculate College; and Ann Donnellan, LINC Deputy Coordinator.

The Leadership for Inclusion in the Early Years (LINC) Programme and Mary Immaculate College (MIC) are proud to once again support Shine’s Green Ribbon Campaign, its annual campaign to challenge mental health stigma across Ireland.

Now in its 17th year, the Green Ribbon Campaign highlights our shared responsibility to reduce stigma and foster a more compassionate and supportive society. This year’s theme, ‘Ireland in Conversation’, places conversation, connection and lived experience at the heart of the campaign, recognising the role that open, honest and compassionate conversations can play in challenging stigma.

Throughout September, the LINC Programme and MIC will join individuals, organisations and communities across Ireland in wearing the green ribbon as a symbol of solidarity, understanding and hope. As part of the campaign, MIC’s Limerick and Thurles campuses will be illuminated in green, symbolising the College’s commitment to shining a light on mental health.

The LINC Programme and MIC will also host the free online Shine Green Ribbon Virtual Event 2026 on Wednesday, 30 September at 7pm. During the event, a Shine Green Ribbon Ambassador will share their lived experience of mental health difficulties and offer valuable insight into the impact of stigma and the importance of speaking openly, listening without judgement and reaching out for support.

The event is free and open to everyone, and registration is now open via Eventbrite.

Professor Dermot Nestor, President of Mary Immaculate College, reflected on the important role of education in encouraging open and judgement-free conversations about mental health:

“Stigma is sustained by what is said without thought, by what is left unsaid, and by what is learned early. Mary Immaculate College educates the educators, and our support for Shine’s Green Ribbon Campaign is evidence of what that responsibility asks of us. Through the LINC Programme and through every graduate who carries this work into a community, we are working to ensure that the conversation about mental health begins early, begins openly, and begins without judgement.”

Dr Lisha O’Sullivan, Head of Department of Reflective Pedagogy and Early Childhood Studies at Mary Immaculate College, also noted that the campaign’s message extends far beyond September:

“In shining a light on mental health, the Shine Green Ribbon Campaign reminds us of the importance of deepening our understanding of mental health and fostering inclusive, supportive communities where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. The message of the Shine Green Ribbon Campaign is a message for all of us that extends far beyond the month of September and resonates in every month of the year.”

Claire Butterly, National Coordinator of the LINC Programme, highlighted how the campaign reflects LINC’s core values of connection, inclusion and advocacy:

“At the heart of LINC is a belief in the power of connection, inclusion and creating spaces where people feel heard, valued and supported. Our students and INCOs play an important role in supporting children, parents and families within their communities, and we encourage them not only to advocate for others, but also to feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their own wellbeing. This year’s theme, ‘Ireland in Conversation’, is an important reminder that meaningful change can begin with something as simple as a conversation. By talking openly about mental health, listening to one another and having the confidence to speak up for ourselves and for others, we can challenge stigma and help create kinder, more inclusive and supportive communities where everyone feels they belong.”

Nat Horan, President of Mary Immaculate College Students’ Union (MISU), encouraged staff and students across both campuses to get involved:

“MISU is delighted to support LINC and MIC in welcoming the return of the Shine Green Ribbon Campaign. Across both Limerick and Thurles campuses, we strive to promote mental health awareness and destigmatisation. This campaign is a fantastic way to show your support and make it clear that this College is a safe space for anyone struggling. It is so important that as many people get involved as possible, so wear your green ribbon and do your part to normalise mental health discussions at MIC!”

The LINC Programme and MIC are encouraging everyone to support the campaign by wearing a green ribbon or wristband during September and starting conversations about mental health in their homes, workplaces, learning environments and communities. These everyday conversations can help to challenge misconceptions, reduce isolation and show those experiencing mental health difficulties that they are not alone.

Free green ribbons and wristbands can be ordered, and the Green Ribbon Conversation Pack can be downloaded, through Shine’s Green Ribbon Campaign webpage.

For further information please contact:
Helena Thompson
Marketing, Communications & Recruitment Officer, LINC Programme
T: +353 86 152 5625
E: Helena.Thompson@mic.ul.ie

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