Voices of H&H: Clodagh Walsh

Where did you grow up and how did this shape you as a person? 

I grew up in a small village in rural Ireland amongst a close-knit and compassionate community. To celebrate this ethos, there was a plaque commissioned which sits outside the community hall and on it reads a famous Irish proverb “Ní neart go cur le céile”, which translates to “Unity is strength”.  

I think this proverb encapsulates what life was like for me growing up. I had opportunities to be part of sports teams, youth clubs, theatre groups, you name it! I have no doubt that growing up in such an environment has impacted how I perceive myself and how I interact with those around me. I was incredibly lucky to grow up surrounded by nature, spending my weekends walking through forests, hiking mountains, and swimming in the sea. This has fostered within me a sense of stewardship for our planet, but also moulded my ‘explorer’ personality type.  

I am always searching for new places, new ideas, new challenges, new solutions. It is fitting, therefore, that I have found myself in a career within the world of R&D; a field of infinite knowledge, where learning and exploring is a never-ending journey!  

What motivates you? 

My motivations in life are diverse and multifaceted. At my core, I have a deep-seated curiosity and passion for uncovering new knowledge and find the satisfaction of overcoming intellectual challenges highly motivating. I have therefore committed to a life full of learning and discovery. I am also driven by a fundamental desire to make a positive difference in the world and to leave a legacy on society, both within my role in H&H and further afield.  

What does inclusion mean to you? 

For me, inclusion is about creating an environment where authenticity flourishes and where everyone is welcomed, respected, and celebrated irrespective of their race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. As an LGBTQ+ person, it is important for me to find myself in interconnected, supportive communities where I can be empowered to be my true self. Within a work setting I always endeavour to support the creation of an inclusive culture where colleagues can work together to confront challenges, share ideas, and inspire one another.  

How do you Celebrate Life Every Way*? 

I celebrate life every way by embracing every moment available to me. So much so that my friends and family always joke about ‘having to book me in months in advance’! Whether I am connecting with nature, exploring new places, listening to my favourite music, spending quality time with people who bring me joy, pursuing my passions of sport and theatre, giving back to society through coaching and volunteering, or simply chasing another sunset, I find fulfilment in the beauty and richness of everyday life.  

I am also incredibly lucky to be surrounded by likeminded people in H&H, particularly within the Irish office. Through team activities, increased collaboration and engagement, and celebrating each other’s milestones we have managed to foster strong, positive relationships within the team which makes every journey to work that little bit easier. I believe strongly in the interconnectedness between humans and strive to impart a ‘One Big Team’ culture wherever I go! 

*CLEW = ‘CLEW’ is the acronym for ‘Celebrate Life Every Way’ and holds significant meaning at H&H. CLEW values, embraces, recognizes and celebrates the diversity and uniqueness that we each bring and contribute to work and life every day.