Elaine McGrath

Based in North Clare, Common Knowledge is a non-profit social enterprise working to empower people with the skills for a sustainable life.

Its hands-on courses teach skills such as building, growing, making and mending, and applies these skills to community projects with mission-aligned groups.

Ms McGrath, who leads the business law team at Reddy Charlton, is among six people appointed to CK’s founding board, with two positions still vacant.

In a statement, co-CEOs Fionn Kidney and Harrison Gardner said: “When assembling the group, we sought out people who were brave, ambitious, experienced and ready to challenge the status quo.

“It’s already been a humbling experience to work with this inspiring group, and we’ve felt empowered by their support of our mission to share skills for a truly sustainable homelife.”

They added: “Each of our new board members share our vision for an Ireland of confident, capable and connected people - and like us, believe that this change starts in our homes and our communities.

“Since forming, they have challenged us as individuals and as a social enterprise in so many ways and we’ve seen enormous growth in meeting these challenges and upholding the mission and values of Common Knowledge.”