Joanne issues robot challenge during inspirational United Nations speech

Dr Hamadoun Touré is used to being around strong women. But even the secretary general of the UN’s International Telecommunications Union had to doff his cap to Joanne O’Riordan during his closing address at the global launch of the “Tech Needs Girls” campaign.

The Millstreet student was the keynote speaker in Manhattan and when Dr Touré admitted to being nervous when taking the stage after her inspirational speech in front of 200 guests, she reminded him of her wit: “Pressure is for tyres.”

That drew loud laughter but the student was living proof of being cool under pressure during a powerful and eloquent speech which made clear that the obstacles she has overcome during her 16 years amply prepared her for moments like these.