07:00, 11 September 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Best known by many for her acting skills from comedic Clare in Derry Girls or the wallflower Penelope Featherington in Bridgerton, but Irish actor Nicola Coughlan is also a passionate advocate and fundraiser.
From her increased platform after being part of some of the most popular shows to date, she has become a well accustomed voice to support charities, facilitate fundraisers and raise awareness for communities in need – that’s why she is our September positive icon!
Irish actors can be few and far between, and as a proud Irish woman Nicola shares that pride to speak about the third sector in her homeland. As an ambassador for LauraLynn Children’s Hospice, she has raised over €50,000 to ensure children and families receive the essential palliative care they need.
But her advocacy doesn't stop there – she also led a powerful symbolic march across Westminster Bridge. The march, with 28 women each carrying a suitcase to represent the weekly number of Northern Irish women forced to travel for abortion services, underscored her dedication to reproductive rights. This event drew attention to the ongoing struggle for equitable access to healthcare in Northern Ireland, showing that Nicola’s activism has a far-reaching, global impact.
One of Nicola’s most remarkable initiatives is her fundraising for Not A Phase, a UK charity dedicated to supporting trans and non-binary individuals. Her campaign, which involved matching donations up to £10,000, raised an astounding £100,000 to fund critical services for trans adults. The impact of this support cannot be overstated, as it helps provide essential resources for a community often marginalised and underfunded. Not A Phase continues to offer life-changing services that affirm the identities and rights of trans and non-binary people.
Beyond her advocacy, Nicola has found creative ways to raise funds for humanitarian causes, including donating pieces from her personal wardrobe to charity. As part of the HURR x Choose Love's WardrobesForWomen rental collection, she auctioned off exquisite items like a Robert Wun “Peace Lily” couture gown, with all proceeds going towards displaced people in need. This blend of fashion and philanthropy highlights her innovative approach to supporting urgent humanitarian efforts.
Nicola’s compassion extends beyond national borders. Her fundraiser for Medical Aid for Palestinians raised over £450,000, which included a personal donation of £10,000 from Nicola herself. This initiative is a testament to her ongoing commitment to healthcare access and emergency relief in crisis zones. Her ability to mobilise such significant funds speaks to the power of celebrity influence when used for good. Medical Aid for Palestinians continues to provide critical medical services and humanitarian aid to those affected by the ongoing conflict in Palestine.
At Smiley Movement, we elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this post.
Choose Love. This charity supports young people aged 11-30 to start businesses, gain employment, or access training, with a focus on helping those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Find out more.
Artists4Ceasefire. A program of the Latino Film Institute, YCP integrates filmmaking into schools to develop academic skills, English proficiency, and social-emotional learning. There are also screenings held at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival. Learn more here.
City Year UK. This charity works with young people to develop key skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving, while supporting them through the transition into employment. Support them here.
This article aligns with the SDG Reduced Inequalities, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
