Believe in Yourself - Mei Lin Yap

Believe in Yourself - Mei Lin Yap, Honorary Doctorate of Trinity College Dublin

Ireland recently witnessed a landmark moment for inclusion and recognition. Mei Lin Yap, Ambassador Liaison Officer at the Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability in Trinity College Dublin’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Trinity College Dublin. This honour makes her the first person in Ireland with an intellectual disability to receive such a distinction and it reflects both her remarkable achievements and her lifelong commitment to creating a more inclusive society.

A Leader in Sport and Inclusion

Mei Lin’s connection to Special Olympics Ireland is deep and longstanding. She is an accomplished swimmer who has represented Ireland on the world stage, winning medals in the four hundred metre and fifty metre front crawl at the World Down Syndrome Swimming Championships.

Beyond sport, Mei Lin has become a powerful advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. She is a dedicated public speaker and a long time volunteer with Special Olympics Ireland.

A Voice for Inclusion at Trinity College Dublin

In her role at the Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability, Mei Lin works closely with academics and students to highlight the voices of older adults with intellectual disabilities, ensuring their experiences and needs are at the centre of research and advocacy.

When presenting her for her honorary degree, Public Orator Anna Chahoud described Mei Lin as “a bright star whose light guides everyone around her.” She spoke of Mei Lin’s generosity, her commitment to justice and her conviction that no one should ever be left behind. These words reflect the essence of who Mei Lin is: a leader who makes people feel seen, valued and inspired.

A Message of Belief and Empowerment

In her most recent video message, Mei Lin encourages people with intellectual disabilities to believe in themselves, use their voice and make an impact on the world around them. Her message is full of warmth, strength and hope. It reminds all of us that inclusion is most powerful when driven by lived experience and when everyone has the chance to shape their own story.

A Moment Worth Celebrating

Mei Lin’s honorary degree is much more than a personal achievement. It is a milestone for Ireland and a celebration of the abilities, contributions, and leadership of people with intellectual disabilities.

We are proud to celebrate Mei Lin. Her achievement inspires us all and strengthens our commitment to building a world where everyone belongs.

Congratulations Mei Lin, from all of us at Special Olympics Ireland 

Video by Trinity College Dublin