Latisha McCrudden

Latisha McCrudden (born 2003 or 2004) is an Irish activist and public speaker known for her advocacy on mental health, Irish Traveller rights, and women's rights. She has spoken publicly on Traveller access to education, including addressing the Seanad Éireann in 2024. McCrudden was named to BBC 100 Women in 2024 and has received multiple youth and community recognition awards for her activism.

Early life and education McCrudden was born to an Irish Traveller mother and non-Traveller father, and was an only child until age ten. Her mother had married at age 17, and her maternal grandmother had married at age 15. McCrudden's grandmother encouraged her to focus on her education. McCrudden grew up in Cloontowart, Lisacul, and attended the village primary school, where she was the only Traveller child.

McCrudden is currently a second-year law student at the University of Galway.

Activism McCrudden became involved in activism at age 15, while experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. She joined the youth panels of Minceir Whiden and the Irish Traveller Movement. In April 2024, she spoke at the Seanad on Traveller access to education. In June 2024, she was named to the Córas Iompair Éireann’s (CIÉ) Youth Board.

Since 2024, McCrudden has co-hosted the podcast Mincéirs: Paving the Way with Emma Ward. The podcast, released by Spun Out, focuses on Traveller experiences.

Awards and recognition

Gaisce Bronze Awardee Special Achievement Award, 2023 National Garda Youth Awards 2024 Alice Academy for Activists 2024 Best First Year at the University of Galway

Personal life McCrudden is Roman Catholic.

McCrudden has practiced karate since age four, and is a black belt.