Janice Young, of the Young Academy of Irish Dance, was presented with the Liam Daly Heritage Award during the 2024 Awards and Parade Banquet hosted by the United Irish Societies of Montreal on April 6.
Liam Daly, of Dublin, Ireland, was a much-loved member of the Montreal Irish community. He volunteered much of his time to ensuring the continual presence of Irish arts and culture in Montreal. The Liam Daly Heritage award is presented each year in his memory by the United Irish Societies of Montreal to a member of the community who promotes the Irish heritage through the arts.
Young began dancing at a young age and performed at many shows with the United Irish Societies Entertainment group. Young became certified as a dance instructor in Ireland and opened her dance academy in 2009. Her dance classes quickly expanded, and she now teaches in Verdun, Ormstown, Chateauguay, NDG, and Westmount, as well as in Prince Edward Island via online classes.
The Young Academy gives back to the community by volunteering to perform at various events throughout the year, including this year’s Irish Evening event in Huntingdon. Young and her dancers are also involved in the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Montreal and Chateauguay every year. (SR)