Nicola Coughlan on why we should never ‘sit by in silence’

Nicola Coughlan is the celebrity we all need to follow

On April 28th, Nicola Coughlan received the Konbini Commitment Award, which is given “to talent who have distinguished themselves by the artistic quality and societal, innovative and/or revolutionary dimension of their work.”

Not only known for her roles in hit series Bridgerton and Derry Girls, the Galway actress uses her platform to raise awareness about important causes. 

Coughlan posted on Instagram expressing her gratitude and honour for receiving this award.

“I love my job not only because I get to do what I’m passionate about; acting gives me the chance to explore the human condition, to take time to understand people and the world around us. To see what unites and divides us and to understand the power of empathy.”

Not only this, Coughlan spoke about how acting has given her a platform to “amplify” causes she cares about. 

“One of the roles I’m most known for is Clare in the sitcom Derry Girls, Clare was a queer character growing up in a society torn apart by decades of sectarian conflict."

"For a comedy, it tackled these two sensitive issues with remarkable insight-and my connection to them feels especially poignant at this present moment.”

She spoke about the recent ruling in the UK, which “declared that the Equality Act’s definition of a woman is based on biological sex."

Nicola said:

"It was heartbreaking and deeply disheartening to see people celebrating the removal of rights from an already marginalised groups.”

Three weeks ago, Coughlan called to raise money for Not A Phase, a trans-led, grassroots charity committed to uplifting and improving the lives of trans+ adults.

"Allies of the Trans and Non-Binary Community, time to come together," Coughlan shared.

“In response, I launched a fundraiser in support of the charity Not A Phase, who support 4000 members of the Trans/ Non-Binary Community.”

“In just a few days, it’s raised over £120,000-and continues to grow.”

“This outpouring of support gives me hope, but it also shows that there’s a long fight ahead and the time to be a vocal ally is now.”

Additionally, Coughlan spoke up about “relentless destruction of Gaza” in her speech:

“Derry Girls also told the story of young people whose futures were made possible by a ceasefire.”

“Today, as we witness the relentless destruction of Gaza, I can’t help but believe that if those in power step in, and all of us with a moral conscience speak up, there can be peace there too.”

“Those children living in fear deserve a future, and we should not sit by in silence."

Coughlan uses her platform to call for a ceasefire.

In October 2024, as part of artists4ceasefire, Coughlan gave a speech uplifting Mary Robinson’s call "to end suffering and deliver lasting peace.”

Coughlan received lots of praise on social media after sharing her speech from the award ceremony. 

Nicola Coughlan is someone who continuously uses her platform to advocate for change and hopes to continue this in the future.

"Art has a unique power to help us understand each other and inspire empathy. Through both my work and my activism, I hope to continue using that power-to stand up for what’s right, and to always lead with kindness."