Irish actress Orla Casey speaks to Her.ie about achieving her dreams and using her voice for change

It had been a dream of hers since she was just two-years-old and it has already become a reality for the 26-year-old Irish actress.

Starring alongside Charlene McKenna and Barry Ward in Clean Sweep, and Will Forte and Siobhán Cullen in Netflix’s Bodkin, Orla Casey has kickstarted her career, but the only way is up.

In an interview with Her.ie, the actress opened up about what keeps her going on the bad days, the power of using your voice, and the importance of including people with Down syndrome.

The actress explained the moving reason why she wanted to get involved in the industry.

“When I was a child growing up, my dream job was being an actress. I eventually got that dream. I like the fact that acting brings joy and excitement to other people and that's why I want to do it.”

Orla encouraged Irish women to keep fighting for their dreams, no matter what. 

She shared: “Put in the hard work and stay determined. Just never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with positive people who will push you to be more motivated.”

As well as her acting accomplishments, Orla also serves on Down Syndrome Ireland’s National Advisory Council.

She explained why activism is so important to her and the Down Syndrome Ireland community.

“I want to get my voice across to other people and help them see they’re not alone.”

Citing Saoirse Ronan, James Martin, Maria Doyle Kennedy, and Nicola Coughlan as her inspirations, Orla said they’ve encouraged her to use her voice for good.

“Saoirse Ronan and Nicola Coughlan inspire me to be so much more than an actress. Any woman can be powerful once they get their voice across and are heard.”

Why inclusion is so important

Orla has helped many people feel less alone by using her voice. She said speaking out about mental health is incredibly important to her because she doesn’t want anyone to feel like they’re fighting that battle alone.

“Some people might struggle with mental health issues and it’s not a topic some can talk about, but I want to encourage people to talk about their mental health if they're willing to do it.”

“You're not alone. There are people who will always be there for you. No matter what happens, they're always there for you.”

Orla stressed that being inclusive is something we all need to do, especially on World Down Syndrome Day. She said that the public needs to realise just how hard it is to be excluded from society.

“Accept people who have Down syndrome and be there for them. Inclusion is so important. Put yourself in our shoes and see how we feel,” Orla shared.

“Some people might not understand Down syndrome and I want to hopefully change their perspective on that. Think about how we feel.”

“Put yourself in our shoes and see how it feels when someone doesn’t include us.”

Orla Casey is an actress and serves on Down Syndrome Ireland's National Advisory Council.

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day.

Down Syndrome Ireland’s theme for 2025 is Support Our Dreams. Whether it’s attending further education, working in meaningful employment, exploring passions or simply living a happy life, everyone is entitled to live their dream.

Visit downsyndrome.ie to sign up for Lots of Socks, buy limited edition socks, or make a donation.