Ailbhe Keane was born on January 21, 1992 in Ireland. Growing up, she was always close to her sister Izzy, who was born with spina bifida. This experience had a profound impact on Ailbhe and inspired her to make a difference in the lives of wheelchair users.
Ailbhe's journey to becoming an entrepreneur started during her time at The National College of Art and Design, where she embarked on a college project that would eventually lead to the creation of Izzy Wheels. Her innovative idea to customize and decorate wheelchair chairs for users like her sister Izzy was met with great enthusiasm, and she knew she was on to something special.
In 2015, Ailbhe officially launched Izzy Wheels, a company dedicated to providing stylish and personalized wheel covers for wheelchair users. The response was overwhelmingly positive, as users finally had a way to express their individuality and creativity through their mobility aids.
Ailbhe's hard work and dedication to Izzy Wheels did not go unnoticed. In 2017, she received the prestigious Accenture Leaders of Tomorrow Award, recognizing her as a rising star in the business world. The following year, she was honored to be named on Forbes 30 Under 30 list, solidifying her status as a young entrepreneur to watch.
Ailbhe's close bond with her sister Izzy remains at the heart of everything she does. Their shared experiences have fueled Ailbhe's passion for creating a more inclusive and vibrant world for wheelchair users everywhere. She continues to be a beacon of inspiration and hope for those in need of a voice in the disability community.
Ailbhe's story caught the attention of many, including the host of The Late Late Show, Ryan Tubridy. In January 2018, she had the opportunity to share her journey and vision for Izzy Wheels with a wider audience, further spreading awareness and appreciation for her innovative work.
As an entrepreneur, Ailbhe Keane has left an indelible mark on the world of disability advocacy and design. Her commitment to empowering wheelchair users to embrace their individuality and express themselves through Izzy Wheels has inspired countless individuals to see beyond their limitations and embrace their unique identity.
Ailbhe's story serves as a reminder that true innovation knows no bounds, and that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. She continues to blaze a trail of creativity and inclusivity, showing the world that wheelchairs can be just as stylish and personalized as any other fashion accessory.
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