Category: featured-1

QUALCOM ANNOUNCES 10 PER CENT REVENUE GROWTH AS IT UNVEILS REFRESHED BRAND IDENTITY

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Newtownabbey-based Qualcom, a leading provider of strategic IT services and security solutions, has announced an unprecedented 10 per cent Year-on-Year revenue increase for 2022/23, along with the creation of 8 jobs in Northern Ireland and 25 in the Republic of Ireland.

The news comes as the organisation unveils a refreshed brand identity and a new website.

Specialising in tailored, strategic IT solutions, Qualcom offers a comprehensive suite of security services, including Managed IT Services, Professional IT Services, IT Security, Field IT Services, IT Resourcing, and Enterprise Class products.

Established in 1995, the organisation has since grown substantially and currently employs a team of over 75 professionals that partner with more than 500 clients situated across NI, ROI, the rest of the UK, and the Channel Islands.

A strategic technology partner to every type of business, Qualcom delivers round-the-clock, tailored support. The provider seamlessly integrates technology into its customers’ operations, fostering growth, efficiency, and sustained success.

Speaking at the unveiling of Qualcom’s new brand identity on February 15th, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, said, “It is a pleasure to witness Qualcom’s next evolution and I would like to congratulate the organisation on its exceptional revenue growth over the past year.

 “Qualcom has been a trusted IT partner to businesses throughout Northern Ireland since 2013, including the many SMEs that form the backbone of our economy. It is also a significant local employer and I wish the organisation every success as it continues to grow.”

Qualcom remains at the forefront of advancement and innovation in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence technologies by partnering with leading global providers. This ensures that the organisation delivers advanced, reliable, and securely managed IT services.

As Cyber threats continue to evolve, Qualcom remains dedicated to developing best-in-class services to combat these challenges. The organisation also harnesses the power of Microsoft technologies, including Azure Cloud Services and Microsoft 365, to ensure that its clients’ businesses operate efficiently and securely.

Leeann Saunders, Managing Director at Qualcom, comments, “Qualcom is delighted to announce a 10 per cent Year-on-Year revenue increase along with the creation of 33 jobs across the island of Ireland. This demonstrates our commitment to fostering economic growth in NI and ROI.

“At the core of our vision is a commitment to redefining the IT experience and to ensuring that businesses can navigate and excel in the ever-evolving digital world with confidence and ease.

“As we embark on a new era, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering cutting-edge IT services and solutions to our clients throughout ROI, the UK, and the Channel Islands.”

To learn more about Qualcom’s transformative IT solutions and services, visit: www.qualcom.co.uk

Pictured l to r are Ken Ryan Managing Director at Qualcom Steven Norris, Deputy Director of Regeneration and Infrastructure at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Leeann Saunders Managing Director NI at Qualcom

Macnaughton Blair Proudly Continues To support Aware NI and CRS

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According to the Northern Ireland Audit Office, Northern Ireland is reported to have the highest prevalence of mental ill-health in the United Kingdom, yet mental health funding in NI is the lowest. On top of that, there were 10,953 missing related calls in 2021/22 in Northern Ireland alone, according to the Police, and for NI, the average number of incidents for a child in care who went missing was significantly higher than elsewhere in the UK.  

Without the engagement of conscious communities, these facts could remain pure statistics. This is exactly why Macnaughton Blair has chosen to support the depression charity Aware NI and Community Rescue Service – a search and rescue organisation operated by volunteers across Northern Ireland.

On Friday 2nd of February, Macnaughton Blair had the great pleasure of welcoming their esteemed charity partners back to their central support office in Belfast to present them with the latest charity contributions. It was reported that determined teams from MacBlair, Watershed Bathrooms, Doorways, Wood Floor Warehouse, P. McDermott & Sons (Omagh) and B. Mc Namee & Co. courageously took on Cycle, Golf and Tug of War challenges and in less than 5 months raised a remarkable £35,000 for these two deserving charities.

 

Armagh welcomes the world for Home of St Patrick Festival next month

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Armagh City’s Home of St Patrick Festival returns for nine spectacular days next month, promising a unique programme of history, heritage and place in his chosen home from 10-18 March.

Featuring the best of music, art, theatre, film and dance across multiple venues, the Home of St Patrick Festival promises visitors from across the world an outstanding opportunity to reflect on his life, legacy and impact in a thrilling showcase of culture, entertainment and hospitality.

The Home of St Patrick Festival’s unique distinction – what sets it apart from every other world-wide celebration – is the relationship between programme and place and the resonance that this important city, its two cathedrals named after him, its landscape and the stunning Georgian backdrop it is famous for.

Firmly established as one of the UK and Ireland’s most authentic events to mark St Patrick’s enduring impact on the island of Ireland and the world, Armagh was Patrick’s chosen place where he began his Christian mission and his legacy lives on in this ancient, unique and beautiful place.

During the Festival, visitors can also explore Armagh County Museum and Armagh Robinson Library which house artefacts, collections, rare books and illuminated manuscripts which reflect the city’s leading role in early Christian Ireland. When he visited Armagh, Saint Patrick called it his ‘sweet hill’, and founded his first large stone church in 445AD.

Welcoming the launch of this year’s festival, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Margaret Tinsley said:

“Celebrating a deep and historic link with St Patrick, Armagh City is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic places, including two stunning Cathedrals both named in his honour, the mystical Navan Fort & Centre and the iconic Armagh Robinson Library, Palace Demesne and Market Place Theatre which play host to many of this year’s enthralling events.

“In a city that has always looked to the stars at the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory, bringing people together through art, literature, science and a sense that this is a place apart, Armagh City enjoys a creative spirit, drawing visitors every year through its ancient traditions. (have omitted rituals)  A home to artists, libraries, poets and scientists, it’s a place of innovation and mindfulness in equal measure and this year’s Home of St Patrick Festival reflects every element of these with plenty of family fun too.

“There are walks, talks, tours, music, song, comedy, dance and unlimited festival fun to entertain everyone, every day.”

Phil Coulter
St Patrick’s Cathedral Armagh – Sunday 10 March
Renowned, award-winning musician, songwriter and recording artist Phil Coulter will be joined by exceptional guests to launch the start of the Home of St Patrick Festival in the inspiring surroundings of St Patrick’s Cathedral, sharing some of his much-loved repertoire and introducing some of his more recent works.

St Patrick’s Poetry Reading
Armagh Robinson Library – Thursday 14 March

Armagh City Chapter and the John Hewitt Society presents “A Festival Poetry Reading with Moyra Donaldson, Noel Monahan & Kate Newmann. ” An opportunity to celebrate and explore contemporary poetry read by acclaimed Irish poets. Moyra Donaldson, from Co Down, has published ten collections of poetry including a Selected Poems. Her work is widely anthologised, and she has read at festivals in Europe, Canada and America. 

Sandy Kelly: Leaving it all behind
The Marketplace Theatre – Thursday 14 March

After the October 2023 release of her new album ‘Leaving it all behind’ and autobiography ‘In my own words’, country music star Sandy Kelly embarks on an island-wide tour of Ireland, celebrating in Armagh City as part of the Home of St Patrick Festival. With a full live band, Sandy will perform songs from her new album and some of her best-loved while recounting some of the stories from her book in an up close and personal setting.

A Musical Celebration of St Patrick
St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral -15th March

This bespoke musical event will honour our patron Saint through the island’s rich music and literature. The showcase event will feature some of Ireland’s internationally renowned musicians from the classical and traditional worlds.

Song, Storytelling and Stew
Charlemont Arms Hotel – Friday 15 March

Ireland is synonymous with stories and welcome. The Seancaithe (the Aged) and Scéalaí (the Narrator) were the bearers of Irish traditional stories. Important characters in Ireland’s cultural past, they passed the old stories down through the generations.  This special evening recounts some of these stories, told by local award-winning Bard Jimmy Rafferty. Relax and as you listen to these tales, enjoy the experience even more with some great locally made Irish stew on arrival. Followed by Traditional Musicians, the Hughes Family.

The Great Irish Songbook
The Market Place Theatre – Friday 15 March
Following last year’s sell-out event, Malachi Cush and Kal McGuckin return with their musical ensemble to present an evening of Ireland’s favourite songs and melodies. Karl and Malachi are two of our best-loved singers, with Malachi’s natural tenor voice and Karl’s booming resonant baritone voice creating a combination that has been described as ‘breathtaking’.

Stained Glass Treasures Walking Tour – 16th March
Join Dr David Caron on a journey learning more about the stained-glass treasures in a range of churches and the Cathedrals in Armagh.

St Patricks’s Stained Glass Workshop -16th March

If the morning tour has inspired you, why not take part in the workshop and create 2 pieces of stained glass. The workshop will take in St Patrick’s RC Cathedral Synod Hall and inspiration can be gleaned from the beautiful cathedral windows.

St Patrick’s Festival cupcakes for kids
The Marketplace Theatre – Saturday 16 March
Calling all junior star bakers and sweet treat lovers! This celebration cupcake decorating workshop will introduce you to the skills and techniques for creating amazing cupcakes every time. You’ll get hands-on experience decorating a box of 12 cupcakes to take home.

Granny’s Griddle Bread Making
Long Meadow Cider- Saturday 16 March
Enjoy the taste of bread, freshly made and hot from the griddle in this demo at Long Meadow. Learn about life in the orchard and enjoy tasty samples.

St Patrick’s Day Session
Navan Fort & Centre – 16 March
Experience the electrifying energy of ‘An Fuaim’, a rising star on the Irish music scene as they take to the stage at the Navan Centre & Fort at 2.30pm for the Saturday Session of music and spoken word. A whirlwind of talented young musicians from Portmór who have been winning competitions and captivating audiences throughout 2023, the band featured at the Lovestock and Lughnasadh festivals and have been featured on BBC Radio Ulster, BBC Newsline and on RTE.

Death Before Dishonour with Pistols at Dawn
Armagh County Club – 16th March
Armagh County Club, the event setting was used as a meeting house in Patrick’s time to heal arguments within the community. Living history characters will present a historical case. But if there is no successful outcome, there could be a duel! Your help is needed! 

Home of St Patrick Vigil Walk
St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral – Saturday 16 March
This event has become an annual activity in the city’s Home of St Patrick’s Festival. The Vigil walk by torchlight is led by the representatives of the city’s two Cathedrals, both called St Patrick’s. Join them in prayer and conversation as the Vigil starts from the Church of Ireland Cathedral and moves to the Roman Catholic Cathedral, a symbolic reflection of St Patrick’s own journey to unite through Christianity.

Sunrise with Patrick – Ritual & Renewal
Navan Centre & Fort – Sunday 17 March
Celebrate the first light of St Patrick’s morning with St Patrick himself and the ancient people of Ulster.  Through the first rays of the morning sun cast an eye back to what life and faith may have been like before the arrival of St. Patrick and with our patron saint envisage the new future that Christianity had in store for our land. And afterwards, have breakfast with us, to the sound of live music.

St Patrick’s Festival Walking Tours
Departing from The Johnston Building, Shambles Yard – Saturday 16 until Monday 18 March
Jump into the history of St Patrick and his connection with both Cathedrals while appreciating the wonderful panoramic views of the city, the ecclesiastical and spiritual capital of Ireland. You will hear why St Patrick chose this as the location to build his first Stone Church in 445 AD and be regaled with myths, legends as well as some unusual and quirky facts surrounding St Patrick.

Ukulele Trad Workshop
Armagh City Hotel – Monday 18th March
Unleash your inner jig and strum your way to Irish folk mastery with our Ukulele & Traditional Irish Music Workshop!

For more information on the full range of bookable and free events, visit https://bitly.ws/3bbgt

Local Lager Recieves Global Award

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HARP lager, one of the leading and most-loved lagers in Northern Ireland, has struck gold at a prestigious global beer competition.
The Global Beer Masters is an internationally renowned blind-tasting competition welcoming beers from around the world to compete for recognition and the chance to benchmark their taste against competitors. The beers were judged by a panel of industry experts who evaluated each one based on appearance, smell, taste, and style characteristics, resulting in Harp Irish Lager proudly scooping a gold medal in the International Lager category.
 
Noting Harp Irish Lager was a lesson in how to achieve crispness and balance in a subtle brew, judges shared their tasting notes, “A pale gold lager with great clarity and a slightly sweet malt aroma, a little bitterness on the body, but very gentle. It has a grainy aroma alongside fresh herbal notes. Palate is well round, supported by good carbonation and herbal notes. Nice balanced finish.”
Harp is an authentic pilsner lager, brewed with pride for Northern Ireland. First produced in 1960 under the guidance of distinguished German brewer Dr Herman Muender, Harp fused German knowledge with Irish brewing heritage to create a delicious Irish Lager. Today Harp is still naturally brewed for a refreshing, crisp taste using only four ingredients: pure water, malted barley, barley, and hops of which are all locally sourced.

Stix & Stones delivers an authentic barbecue experience with launch of ‘Meat Wagon’ restaurant

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Award-winning Belfast restaurant creates 20 new jobs with the opening of a new restaurant focused on perfectly cooked slow and low barbecue food.

Award-winning Belfast restaurant, Stix & Stones, is now offering local meat lovers a mouthwatering authentic barbecue experience with the launch of its new Stix & Stones Meat Wagon restaurant in the heart of Belfast.

The opening of the new restaurant on Wellington Place has created 20 full-time and part-time roles across its kitchen and front-of-house operation with plans to create an additional four jobs with the launch of a dedicated takeaway section.

Stix & Stones Meat Wagon is focused on offering customers an authentic, diner-style barbecue experience with slow and low-cooked meat charred to perfection by the restaurant’s highly experienced pitmaster and team of skilled chefs.  

Its menu features a selection of tender, smoky, and succulent meat dishes including house-smoked brisket, baby back ribs, chicken wings, and loaded smash burgers, along with tasty sides and delicious extras like dirty fries, Jalapeno poppers, corn on the cob and slaw.

Stix & Stones launched its first hugely successful restaurant in Belfast city centre in 2014, before opening its Ballyhackamore outlet on the Newtownards Road in 2023. The restaurants are best known for offering diners the distinctive experience of cooking dry-aged steaks on hot stones.

It also launched its very own Stix & Stones Butchery in 2022 on Wellington Place in Belfast, conveniently located next door to the Stix & Stones Meat Wagon restaurant. The state-of-the-art butchery stocks and supplies its restaurants with the finest cuts of dry-aged beef reared by an award-winning Co. Down pedigree rare breed beef farmer.

Rory Lee, Head Chef at Stix & Stones Meat Wagon restaurant, said: “We’re bringing an authentic, high-quality barbecue experience right to the heart of the city, complemented by our own dedicated butchery next door.

“Stix & Stones Meat Wagon has been designed to offer customers a mix of intimate table settings and booth dining that’s perfect for a relaxed get-together with friends and family to enjoy mouth-watering and tasty barbecue food lovingly smoked by our pitmasters.

“Our authentic slow and low cooking techniques, combined with our farm-to-fork commitment and supporting local suppliers of fresh quality food and ingredients, ensures every dish we serve is not only bursting with flavour, but contributes to boosting the local economy.

“With the creation of 20 new jobs, and more on the horizon, we want to share our love for great barbecue, as we feel we have created something truly special here for meat lovers across the region to enjoy over and over again.”  

For more information on the Meat Wagon visit: https://www.meatwagonbelfast.co.uk/

Award-winning Belfast restaurant, Stix & Stones, is now offering local meat lovers a mouthwatering authentic barbecue experience with the launch of its new Stix & Stones Meat Wagon restaurant in the heart of Belfast. The opening of the new restaurant on Wellington Place has created 20 full-time and part-time roles with plans to create an additional four jobs with the launch of a dedicated takeaway section.
Pictured launching the Stix & Stones Meat Wagon restaurant are Rory Lee, Head Chef, and Lauren McDermott, Restaurant Manager.

 

MERCURY RETAINS THE KEYS TO THE CASTLE

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Mercury Security & Facilities Management wins pitch to retain CastleCourt security contract

NORTHERN IRELAND’s biggest independent security provider and facilities management company Mercury Security & Facilities Management (MSFM) has been reappointed to provide a complete security solution to CastleCourt Shopping Centre following a rigorous tender process.

CastleCourt, in the heart of Belfast’s busy city centre, first opened its doors in 1990 and is one of Northern Ireland’s biggest and busiest shopping centres.

The three-year contract will see Mercury Security & Facilities Management provide an integrated security solution that combines a team of well-equipped and highly trained security and customer service officers with the latest in CCTV and monitoring technology to protect the assets of the shopping centre and its tenants.

Headquartered in Lisburn with offices in Dublin, Limerick and London, MSFM has established a strong reputation as a leading security provider in the retail sector.

Its impressive portfolio of retail clients features household names such as Homebase, HMV and Woodie’s DIY stores, as well as a host of shopping centres, including the Kennedy Centre, Abbey Centre, Park Centre, Connswater, Angel Central (London), Ashley Centre (Epsom) and Lion Walk Shopping Centre (Colchester).

“Following a recent tender process, we are delighted to reappoint Mercury to look after our considerable security requirements,” said CastleCourt Centre Manager Leona Barr.

“Mercury’s understanding of our requirements gave us the confidence to continue with our partnership at the centre. Their knowledge of the local retail sector is an important factor and will allow us to deliver a safe customer focused experience for everyone.”

Mercury Security & Facilities Management Managing Director Liam Cullen added: “Winning new business is obviously great for any company, but holding on to existing customers, in a competitive tender process, is the true test of the work you do and the services you provide.  In this respect, everyone at Mercury Security & Facilities Management is delighted to be renewing our successful partnership with the team at CastleCourt Shopping Centre.

“This is a very prestigious contract and continues to place Mercury at the forefront of the industry as a trusted partner for some of the world’s leading companies and retail organisations,” he added.

“Over the years, we have invested millions in the latest technology and training available to enable us to provide innovative, integrated solutions to our growing list of clients, and big wins like this show that our investment strategy is paying off,” concluded Mr Cullen.

Mercury Security & Facilities Management is one of the UK and Ireland’s leading security and facilities management solutions providers.

Founded in 2001, the company has established a strong reputation as a pioneer in the area of integrated security solutions – combining physical manpower with cutting-edge technology to service an ever-growing client base.

In 2018, the company launched a new Facilities Management division to complement its existing suite of security services and is now the most highly accredited security and support services provider  in the UK and Ireland.

All MSFM services are provided and integrated using the state-of-the-art Intelocate workflow management software systemwhich gives clients full transparency of how their premises are managed.  This is done by recording actions, collecting data, and producing bespoke reports that can be submitted to third parties, including insurance companies who will expect businesses to be fully compliant with all relevant guidelines to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees and customers.

Mercury Security & Facilities Management is an NSI Gold Approved Company – a standard perceived and recognised as the best by Industry, the Police, Fire and Rescue Services and Insurers across the UK and Ireland.

For further information on Mercury Security & Facilities Management services, email enquiries@msfm.biz or call MSFM at +44 (0) 28 9262 0518.

KEYS TO CASTLE: Mercury Security & Facilities Management (MSFM) has been reappointed to provide a complete security solution to CastleCourt Shopping Centre in Belfast, following a rigorous tender process. The three-year contract will see Mercury provide an integrated security solution that combines a team of well-equipped and highly trained security and customer service officers with the latest in CCTV and monitoring technology to protect the assets of the shopping centre and its tenants. ‘Securing’ the deal at CastleCourt are (l-r) MSFM Operations Director Dave Queen, Site Security Manager Mark Campbell, CastleCourt Centre Manager Leona Barr, and Liam Cullen, Managing Director of Mercury Security & Facilities Management.
KEYS TO CASTLE: Mercury Security & Facilities Management (MSFM) has been reappointed to provide a complete security solution to CastleCourt Shopping Centre in Belfast, following a rigorous tender process. The three-year contract will see Mercury provide an integrated security solution that combines a team of well-equipped and highly trained security and customer service officers with the latest in CCTV and monitoring technology to protect the assets of the shopping centre and its tenants. ‘Securing’ the deal at CastleCourt are (l-r) MSFM Security Officer Matthew Braniff, CastleCourt Centre Manager Leona Barr, and Liam Cullen, Managing Director of Mercury Security & Facilities Management.

Host of Exceptional NI Leaders Share their Innovative Leadership Experiences with Ulster University’s 25@25 Cohort

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Four of Northern Ireland’s brightest minds and household names from across the tech, sporting, education and business sectors spent an inspiring day sharing their journeys with those on Ulster University’s 25@25 Leadership Programme.

Dr Tommy Bowe, TV presenter on Ireland AM – Ireland’s largest morning news show, and former Irish International Rugby player, Dr Sarah Friar, CEO of Nextdoor, Catalyst’s Dr Adrian Johnston MBE and Ulster University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew shared their insights and advice for innovative leadership with Northern Ireland’s future leaders on the Belfast campus this week.

Tommy Bowe is no stranger to Ulster University, having graduated in Construction Engineering and Management in 2006, shared his top tips for leading innovatively on the pitch, the sofa and in the boardroom.

He reflected on the ways in which he planned for a life after professional rugby, his passion for having a career which is different and unexpected and on taking risks: “I think I’ve had a fairly varied career, between rugby, television and business and any little bits of wisdom or learnings that I’ve had, its nice to be able to pass them on. I think that teamwork is so, so important, build a strong team around you. I think making sure you do your preparation, know what you’re going and putting yourself in the right position for opportunities that might arise. Believe in yourself – I think that’s the most important. Believe in yourself, – push yourself out of your comfort zone and have the confidence to try something new and different. Have that confidence to go and take it all on.”

Interviewed by Gavin Nelson, Chief Operating Officer at Third Sector Connect and one of the 25@25, Tommy said he was delighted to participate:
“The reason I got involved in the 25@25 Programme is I feel I owe an awful lot to Ulster University, they were really helpful to me in my early days and I like to try and give back.”

The group spent the morning with Ulster University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Paul Bartholomew, where they examined what it means to become an innovative leader and spent time talking about vulnerability in leadership, the process of presenting a new innovative idea to a team and rolling out a culture of innovation by demonstrating it within your own conduct and leadership.

The Vice Chancellor coached the 25@25 participants on his strategies for leading change, reminding the young leaders of the importance of creating space for innovative thinking in their organisations.

They then spent the afternoon with Adrian Johnston, Director of Strategic Business Development at Catalyst and the current Chair of the Community Foundation for NI. Adrian is passionate about Inclusive Innovation and talked to them about the ‘big challenges’ for Northern Ireland and how they might tackle these using open innovation thinking and leadership. Adrian discussed the need for sharing, collaboration and transparency in creating open innovation and disrupting in a safe and confident way and, after sharing the common attributes of an innovative organisation, challenged each of the 25@25 to examine the culture of innovation in their own organisation.

Adrian is also an alumnus, he gained a PhD in Informatics / AI from Ulster University and in 2019 Adrian was awarded the Ulster University Graduate of the year, the same year he received an MBE for services to peace-building and the community in NI.

The cohort finished off an inspiring day reconnecting with CEO of NextDoor, Sarah Friar, who is an Ulster University Alumna having received an honorary degree from Ulster in 2018 for distinguished service to the international technology industry. Sarah shared her experiences of innovating in Silicon Valley and ran an interactive workshop on the Jobs To Be Done framework, a product development theory used in practice at Nextdoor.

In this session, the 25@25 participants were given the unique opportunity to share their own ideas for innovations that have the potential to better society in Northern Ireland with the Co. Tyrone born social network boss, who provided tailored feedback and useful tips on market research, product development, and knowing your competition.

So far on the 25@25 Leadership Programme the cohort have heard from an incredible line up of local and global leaders including Derry Girls creator, Lisa McGee; Glamour’s Americas Editorial Director, Samantha Barry; Head of the Civil Service, Dr Jayne Brady; Chief Medical Officer, Sir Michael McBride; Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance, Neil Gibson; Former Co-Chair of the Green Party and Director of Friends of the Earth Sir Jonathon Porritt CBE, a writer and campaigner on Sustainable Development; Former CEO of Kainos, Brendan Mooney; Chief Executive of NOW Group and Chair of Clanmil Housing, Maeve Monaghan; and more – all of whom have generously shared their leadership lessons with the group.

To find out more about the 25@25 Programme, visit: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/twenty-five

Derry Good Day For Rosie’s Trust

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LISA McGee, the creator of Derry Girls, has been appointed as an ambassador of Rosie’s Trust. The local charity has also announced that it has received a substantial financial donation from the Kingsbridge Healthcare Group. Aileen Martin, Chairperson of Rosie’s Trust said: “We are honoured to have Lisa McGee as an ambassador for Rosie’s Trust. As one of Northern Ireland’s leading writers and creators we are so excited to have her support in helping us to raise awareness of the difference our services make to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

“In addition to this, we are thrilled to have received a most generous £20,000 donation from the Kingsbridge Charitable Foundation. This will make a huge contribution to keeping even more people and their pets together when they need each other the most. What makes this donation even more special is the fact that Kingsbridge staff voted for it.

We’re looking forward to working with Lisa and Kingsbridge in the months ahead and have lots of activity planned as part of these partnerships, including information days and volunteering opportunities.”

“Rosie’s Trust could not operate without the support of our volunteers, who visit our beneficiaries in their homes to care for their companion pets and also provide a vital ‘check-in’ service,” Aileen added.

Lisa McGee said: “Rosie’s Trust is a unique charity, which is dedicated to supporting people living with cancer, people receiving end of life care and older people with mobility issues who are unable to look after their companion pets independently and have no other support. I am excited to work with the Rosie’s Trust team, to find out more about the great work they are doing and use my own platform to support them and, together, help even more people across Northern Ireland.”

Dr Martin Shields, Chair of Kingsbridge Foundation and Medical Director at Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, said: “We are delighted to provide Rosie’s Trust with a £20,000 donation. Pets play such an important role in people’s lives and we sometimes find that patients might delay treatment as they worry over who will help take care of their beloved dog or cat. Rosie’s Trust is a great charity that removes this concern for beneficiaries, not only when they are faced with this situation, but in their daily lives.”

www.rosiestrust.org

Pictured with Molly the dog at the announcement are Mark Regan, Chief Executive of Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, Lisa McGee, Dr Martin Shields, Chair of Kingsbridge Foundation and Medical Director at Kingsbridge Healthcare Group and Aileen Martin, Chairperson of Rosie’s Trust.

Harp Gets Global Beer Recognition

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HARP lager, one of the leading and most-loved lagers in Northern Ireland, has struck gold at a prestigious global beer competition.
 
The Global Beer Masters is an internationally renowned blind-tasting competition welcoming beers from around the world to compete for recognition and the chance to benchmark their taste against competitors. The beers were judged by a panel of industry experts who evaluated each one based on appearance, smell, taste, and style characteristics, resulting in Harp Irish Lager proudly scooping a gold medal in the International Lager category.
 
Noting Harp Irish Lager was a lesson in how to achieve crispness and balance in a subtle brew, judges shared their tasting notes, “A pale gold lager with great clarity and a slightly sweet malt aroma, a little bitterness on the body, but very gentle. It has a grainy aroma alongside fresh herbal notes. Palate is well round, supported by good carbonation and herbal notes. Nice balanced finish.”
 
Harp is an authentic pilsner lager, brewed with pride for Northern Ireland. First produced in 1960 under the guidance of distinguished German brewer Dr Herman Muender, Harp fused German knowledge with Irish brewing heritage to create a delicious Irish Lager. Today Harp is still naturally brewed for a refreshing, crisp taste using only four ingredients: pure water, malted barley, barley, and hops of which are all locally sourced.
 

Look North! The return of the North Belfast Festival…

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Look North – The third North Belfast Festival takes place over the weekend of the 23 to 25 February 2024 celebrating the heritage and creative talents of North Belfast.

The festival programme is jam-packed with a wide range of activities and interests showcasing and celebrating North Belfast’s rich heritage, cultural, creative and literary talents, with appearances from local authors, artists and young people, though it is not limited to the area.  It includes talks, walks, poetry readings, panel discussions, music, tours of historic buildings and three beginners creative writing classes in Poetry, Short Story and Memoir.

Planned and delivered by the NBF network, it is led by The John Hewitt Society and includes The North Belfast Heritage Cluster, Beat Carnival, Imagine Belfast, Ulster University, and other interested individuals who reside in or are associated with North Belfast.

Welcoming the Festival, Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said, ‘It’s a great pleasure to welcome the third annual Look North! multi-arts and heritage festival. This is the part of Belfast where the great poet and polymath, John Hewitt, was born and grew up. It shaped his early views on life and the influential poetry he would go on to write, just as its rich cultural and artistic heritage continues to shape the lives of its current residents and inspire whole new generations of writers and artists today.’

Speaking at the launch yesterday in Sailortown’s St. Joseph’s Church, Dr Frank Ferguson Chair of The John Hewitt Society said “It is a great pleasure to bring a festival to such a vibrant part of Belfast today. The Festival is open to all and is important in recognising the rich heritage and cultural contributions of North Belfast. I would like to thank my fellow committee members on the NBF network for all their support in planning and producing this exciting programme.”

 Rt. Hon. the Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy, who launched the festival said: “Look North! Is all about collaboration.  This multi-arts festival aims to celebrate not only the uniqueness of north Belfast but tells of the hidden histories behind some of its landmark buildings. I wish this fantastic, cross-community festival every success!

Tony Kennedy Chair of the Look North NBF network, commented that the festival reflected the vibrant and diverse community which is today North Belfast. “Look North is not just for the people of North Belfast. It demonstrates the rich cultural heritage of the area and should attract visitors from throughout Belfast and beyond.” He thanked all the partners who had helped with the event and the sponsors for their generous support.

 

To view the full schedule and to book for events or workshops, please visit northbelfastfestival.com.

Do join in the fun by following us on our socials and look out for the festival brochure and flyers in your local area.

Hothouse Flowers to headline Beamish Sessions at Court House

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LIVE music lovers are in for a real treat over the coming months as The Court House in Bangor hosts The Beamish Sessions, a series of intimate gigs with a stellar line-up that includes Hothouse Flowers, David Holmes, Duke Special and punk legend Jah Wobble.
Supported by leading stout brand Beamish in partnership with Arts & Business NI, the sessions get under way at the award-winning Court House on Sunday February 11 when punk legend and former PiL bassist Jah Wobble and his band The Invaders Of The Heart perform ‘Rebuilt in Dub’ a reinterpretation of PiL’s seminal 1979 album ‘Metal Box’ with ‘heavy yet sophisticated dub interpretations and mind-expanding production’.
When it comes to local artists and pioneers within the music industry, names don’t come much bigger than Belfast-born David Holmes who brings ‘God’s Waiting Room’ to the Court House on Saturday February 17. Expect a selection of cinematic, library music, rock’n’roll, psych, experimental, electronic, techno, unclassifiable and independent tunes as the world-renowned DJ, producer and soundtrack composer takes over all three rooms of The Court House.
March will see one of Northern Ireland’s finest songwriters Duke Special take the Court House stage with three back-to-back shows from Thursday March 7 to Saturday March 9. With 15 albums under his belt, inspired by his love of music, theatre, books, poetry, art, love, life, redemption, and death, and 78RPM records, fans are in for an extraordinary evening of original music.
The Beamish Sessions conclude on Saturday March 30 with a headline show from legendary Irish band Hothouse Flowers, returning to Bangor for the first time since their sell-out Open House Festival appearance at Bangor Castle Walled Garden in 2022. Formed in 1985, Liam Ó Maonlaí and Fiachna Ó Braonáin’s first album was the most successful Irish debut record in history. Since reforming in the late ‘90s, the band has continued to write, perform and tour.
Only last month, The Court House become the first Northern Irish venture to win National Lottery Project of the Year. Located on the seafront in the heart of Bangor, County Down, the venue provides the perfect backdrop for an intimate and memorable live music experience.
“Through the Beamish Sessions at The Court House, our aim is to curate an unforgettable live experience for local music lovers in Northern Ireland and take them on an extraordinary musical journey with a series of captivating and diverse original gigs,” said Kieran Gilmore, Director of The Court House and co-founder of local music and arts charity Open House which owns and operates the venue.
“We hope The Court House will become the beating heart of Bangor’s burgeoning music and arts scene, and we appreciate the support of companies like Beamish and Arts & Business NI in our efforts to achieve this goal.”  
Maeve McKervey, Head of Business at Arts & Business NI, said:  “At Arts & Business NI, partnership is at the heart of everything we do and connecting our members is an important focus for us.
 
“ We are delighted to support this new creative partnership between Open House Festival and United Wines, which has enabled the programming of The Beamish Sessions, a series of live music performances in The Court House, featuring international artists alongside respected local artists.
“By working together on this exciting new project, United Wines and Open House are forging new connections, reaching new audiences and bringing benefits to the local cultural scene, positioning Bangor as a vibrant creative city.”   
Andrew Hollywood of United Wines, the company that distributes Beamish in Northern Ireland, said:  “We are delighted to support The Beamish Sessions at The Court House which is gaining a reputation as one of Northern Ireland’s finest live music venues. 
 
“With its historic charm, The Court House offers a unique and intimate setting that allows for a more personal and immersive musical experience, giving music lovers an opportunity to be up close and personal with their favourite artists.
 
“We see this as a perfect fit for Beamish which, although celebrating its 232nd birthday this year, is one of the fastest-growing stout brands in Northern Ireland. Through our partnerships with music venues such as The Court House in Bangor and The Sunflower in Belfast, Beamish is becoming more and more popular with a younger customer demographic, appealing to those who reject the mass marketing of bigger brands – in favour of a traditional stout brand that is understated and doesn’t try too hard.”
 

For more information on The Beamish Sessions at The Court House, Bangor, visit www.courthousebangor.com/event-category/beamish-sessions/ .

GREAT NIGHT STOUT: Live music lovers are in for a treat over the coming months as The Court House in Bangor hosts The Beamish Sessions, a series of intimate gigs in February and March featuring a stellar line-up that includes Hothouse Flowers, David Holmes, Duke Special and punk legend Jah Wobble. Supported by leading stout brand Beamish in partnership with Arts & Business NI, the sessions get under way on Sunday February 11 with punk legend and former PiL bassist Jah Wobble, and conclude on Saturday March 30 with a headline show from legendary Irish band Hothouse Flowers. Launching the Sessions at The Court House are (l-r) Maeve McKervey from Arts & Business NI, Matthew Fitzpatrick of United Wines, the company that distributes Beamish in Northern Ireland, and Kieran Gilmore, Director of The Court House and co-founder of local music and arts charity Open House which owns and operates the venue. For more information on The Beamish Sessions at The Court House, Bangor, visit www.courthousebangor.com/event-category/beamish-sessions/.