Cancer Fund for Children Twilight Concert – 21st November, Belfast Cathedral

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Local charity Cancer Fund for Children are inviting the public to their Twilight Concert in St Anne’s Cathedral Belfast Thursday 21st November.

 

It will not only feature the Cancer Fund for Children’s very own Carefree Choir ( made up of families supported by the charity, staff and volunteers) but performances from the wonderful ARCO String Quarter and Ireland’s premiere a cappella vocal band Ardú.

 

Cancer Fund for Children provides vital support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer and the special concert set in candlelight in the beautiful cathedral will raise money towards their services.

 

The event will also be hosted by award-winning journalist and presenter, Holly Hamilton.

 

Tickets are available via the charity’s website –

cancerfundforchildren.com and cost between £10 & £25.

Riverdance 30 The New Generation – SSE Arena Belfast

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Riverdance 30 The New Generation is coming to Belfast!

Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.

The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerising choreography and breathtaking performances has left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation.

To celebrate this incredible 30th year milestone, Riverdance will embark on a special anniversary tour, bringing its magic to audiences around the world. This will include dates at Belfast’s SSE Arena from 17th – 20th December 2025 with a matinee on Saturday 20th December.

Tickets for these dates go on sale this Thursday 21st November at 10am from ticketmaster.ie

This spectacular production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. And for the first time Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when show began 30 years ago.

John McColgan, Director of Riverdance said “It is both a privilege and a delight to celebrate 30 years of Riverdance and the unique journey it has taken us on. In those 30 years the show has transformed from a spectacle into a global cultural phenomenon – continuously evolving yet remaining true to its Irish roots. On this upcoming tour we look forward to welcoming ‘The New Generation’ of artists while paying tribute to the talented performers, creators, dedicated crew, and the millions of fans who have made Riverdance a worldwide celebration of music and dance.”

Audiences will enjoy a unique and memorable performance which blends the traditional and the contemporary, showcasing the skill and passion of the world-class of dancers, musicians and singers in the Riverdance ensemble.

Composed by Bill Whelan. Produced by Moya Doherty. Directed by John McColgan.

Riverdance 30, The Next Generation will play SSE Arena Belfast from 17th -20th December 2025

Show schedule

Wed 17th Dec 8pm

Thurs 18th Dec 8pm

Fri 19th Dec      8pm

Sat 20th Dec     2pm matinee and 8pm evening shows

Tickets on sale from Thursday 21st November at 10am from ticketmaster.ie

For more information on Riverdance see Riverdance.com @Riverdance

For more concert / show information see aikenpromotions.com @aikenpromotions

 

Local cultural charity will help launch ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at free event

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TITANIC Belfast is partnering with ArtsEkta to launch ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at its annual Christmas Light Switch On event on Sunday 24th November.

There will be lots of free festive fun for everyone to look forward to from 2pm, with the arrival of Father Christmas, carols from the Lisburn Community Choir, ArtsEkta Bollywood dancers, funfair entertainers, Santa’s Elves and Reindeers, balloon modelling, face-painting and a Festive Fayre as well as the official illuminating ceremony, all taking place on Titanic Belfast’s Plaza.

Titanic Belfast Festive Light Switch On… Titanic Belfast is partnering with ArtsEkta to launch ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at its annual Christmas Light Switch On event on Sunday 24th November. The free family event will take place from 2-4pm on Titanic Belfast’s Plaza with a variety of festive entertainment and will see three children selected by the charity to join Father Christmas in illuminating the building while celebrating Belfast’s rich cultural diversity.

ArtsEkta, the multi-award-winning cultural organisation works to develop intercultural relationships at the heart of the community, have picked three children to join Father Christmas in adding festive sparkle to the world-famous building by switching on the Christmas lights while celebrating Belfast’s rich cultural diversity.

Eimear Kearney, Associate Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “Our annual Christmas launch is always one of the highlights of our event calendar, bringing a real community spirit to the building, helping us kick off the festive season at Titanic Belfast. This year, we are delighted to be partnering with ArtsEkta to help make this a truly inclusive event for all communities across Northern Ireland. It’s a free event, so we invite everyone to join us for lots of family fun and festive entertainment.”

Nisha Tandon, CEO of ArtsEkta said, “We are honoured to be the charity partner for this year’s ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ at Titanic Belfast. This partnership embodies the spirit of community, allowing us to enrich the lives of those in need while celebrating the cultural diversity of our city. We look forward to bringing our participants, many of whom are new to the city, to experience joy and excitement at Titanic Belfast this Christmas”

As part of the festive fun at Titanic Belfast, the hugely popular ‘A Magical Christmas Experience’ will open on Wednesday 27th November and run until Monday 23rd December.  Visitors will enjoy a guided journey through the Enchanted Forest to make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree, see the Elves’ Workshop, visit Mrs Claus to hear Christmas tales, write and post their own Christmas letter, enjoy some festive arts and crafts before their names are checked off the ‘Naughty or Nice’ list ahead of meeting Father Christmas individually with their families.

For further information on Christmas at Titanic Belfast go to www.titanicbelfast.com

Neurodiversity In The Workplace Discussions To Take Centre Stage At Entrepreneurs Conference This Month

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The topic of neurodiversity within the entrepreneurial journey and in the workplace will be just one of the many topics of discussion happening at a new conference happening in Belfast this month.

Entrepreneurs Unleashed, which takes place at the Cathy Short Theatre at Jennymount Business Park in Belfast on Thursday November 28, will be tackling a number of subjects that are key to the entrepreneurial journey.

From finance and marketing to tendering, sales and leadership, the inaugural conference of its kind promises a packed schedule of speakers from across the country.

Joining the bill are PHD researcher Gary Gates and recruitment director at HAYS Recruitment Cara Marks, founders of Neurodiversity SPARK. 

Gary, an entrepreneur and marketer himself, said: “Often the pathways into recruitment and the cultures within the workplace can have many barriers for people who are neurodivergent when you compare with their counterparts.

“This, along with added vision, unique perspectives and creative mindsets results in many entrepreneurial people to set up their own businesses rather than use their ability to think innovatively to contribute within the workplace as intrapreneurs.

“As a society we are in crisis and we’re at a crossroads where we need to decide how to change the rigid, outdated business practices in favour of diverse environments that nurture and actively seek out creative, innovative and unique approaches.

“This must start with the entrepreneurs themselves, neurodiverse or not, because these people are shaping the future of our workforce.”

And, for many entrepreneurs learning how to harness the potential of their neurodiversity is just the first step on their journey.

At the conference Gary and Cara will also be discussing how neurodiverse managers and leaders can learn to thrive as well as helping entrepreneurs consider how they can best support their neurodiverse employees to unlock their potential as well.

Cara explained: “Working within recruitment and employment I have first hand experience of understanding the benefits of a neurodivergent workforce 

“Increasing research reveals strong links between neurodivergence and entrepreneurship, with higher rates of neurodivergence seen among entrepreneurs. This isn’t surprising, as many qualities common in neurodivergent individuals—such as a strong tolerance for risk, unique creativity, exceptional problem-solving skills, and resilience—are also the very qualities that drive entrepreneurial success.

“Organisations, too, can thrive when they embrace and value differences within their teams. Inclusive environments that harness neurodivergent strengths can unlock new avenues for innovation, bringing fresh perspectives and transformative problem-solving approaches to complex challenges. 

“As our understanding deepens, it’s becoming clear that neurodivergent individuals are not only an asset to any team but are often drivers of creativity and growth.”

Entrepreneurs Unleashed, sponsored by Belfast City Council, promises a diverse and dynamic lineup of speakers who will share their expertise on a wide range of topics essential for entrepreneurial success.

Tina Calder, chief vision officer at Excalibur Press and the driving force behind the event, explained the inspiration behind the conference: “Excalibur Press works with dozens of entrepreneurs each year and the one things we realised was there wasn’t an event completely dedicated to those small to medium businesses who wanted to find ways of taking their business to the next level. 

“We are lucky to have a fantastic array of corporate partners, consultants, and associates we work with on a regular basis so we decided to incorporate the fantastic expertise and knowledge they bring to our extended team.”

The conference will cover a wide array of topics, from leveraging AI to drive innovation and growth, to mastering marketing strategies, finance, tendering and fostering inclusivity in the workplace. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from leading industry figures, including Tina Calder herself, alongside Gary Gates & Cara Marks (Neurodiversity Spark), Ruth Young (Ruthless Media), Michael McAdam (Movie House Cinemas), Adam McBride & Carole King (Excalibur Press), Kevin O’Reilly (Toastmasters), Lisa McCaul (Belfast Met), Katie Matthews Furphy (Mind Tribe UK), Chiho Tang (Oranga), Jenny Irvine (Raise Ventures), Mark Johnston (Johnston Financial Solutions), Lisa Strutt and Sinead Sharkey Steenson (Career Reboot) and Amy Martin (Scaffold Digital) among others.

Speaking of the content of the conference Tina added: “This conference brings together a diverse panel of industry experts to share insights on a wide range of topics crucial for entrepreneurial success.

“From sales and marketing strategies to leadership development, navigating the startup landscape, and protecting your business from cyber security attacks, Entrepreneurs Unleashed covers it all.”

Highlights of the event will include learning effective strategies for using AI in marketing, amplifying your brand presence using social media and Google Ads, fostering innovation and creativity within your business and much more.

Attendees at Entrepreneurs Unleashed will not only gain valuable knowledge from expert speakers but will also have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and explore new business opportunities. 

The conference is tailored to cater to both those just starting out and seasoned business leaders looking to elevate their ventures to the next level.

Entrepreneurs Unleashed has been sponsored by Belfast City Council, Belfast Met, MovieHouse, MCS Branding, Oranga Creative and Excalibur Press.

Entrepreneurs Unleashed Conference will take place on Thursday November 28, at the Cathy Short Theatre, Jennymount Business Park, Belfast, tickets are available from entrepreneursunleashed.co.uk 

Electric Shock Report to Launch at Northern Ireland’s Premier Electrical Industry Event

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A new report aimed at tackling the widespread underreporting of electric shocks within the electrical industry in Northern Ireland will be launched later this month, as part of the Electrical Training Trust’s (ETT) ‘Save Our Sparks’ campaign. 

The report, titled Ending Shock Silence, is based on findings from the Electric Shock Survey, a recent study conducted by ETT to understand the frequency and culture of reporting electric shocks at work.

The Stay Connected event will take place on Wednesday November 27 at Galgorm Resort & Spa. Now in its 3rd year, Stay Connected is widely recognised as the leading event for electrical contractors in Northern Ireland, bringing together industry leaders, employers, and supply chains for a day full of insights, networking, and continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities. 

Designed to provide attendees with a unique opportunity to stay up to date on the latest industry trends, products, and legislation, the event will also help attendees learn about the latest technical updates and business advice – all in short, bite-sized sessions. 

Throughout the day, attendees can engage with electrical suppliers, wholesalers, and industry experts, with various practical demonstrations. 

This year’s event will also feature the official launch of the Ending Shock Silence report, which includes the highly anticipated findings of the organisation’s recent Electric Shock Survey. 

Supported by the Health & Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) and UK-based charity, Electrical Safety First (ESF), the Electric Shock Survey and resulting Ending Shock Silence report is part of the wider Save Our Sparks campaign, an initiative inspired by Michael’s Story, a 26-year-old qualified and experienced electrician, who tragically died due to electrocution at work. 

ETT’s Chief Executive, Charlotte Bamber, said: “Stay Connected continues to grow each year, proving to be an invaluable opportunity for the electrical contracting sector to come together and tackle evolving challenges and opportunities, providing an ideal forum for attendees to exchange ideas, build new relationships, and explore potential partnerships.

“This year’s event also sees the launch of the Ending Shock Silence report, which highlights the findings of an important piece of industry research conducted by ETT into the frequency of electric shocks at work in Northern Ireland and the culture around reporting them.

“We look forward to welcoming attendees from across the industry to what will undoubtedly be a valuable and informative day and sharing the findings of our research with the launch of the Ending Shock Silence report.”

For more information on the Stay Connected programme and to book your tickets, go to ett-ni.org

Winter Warmers at Portico

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It might be cold outside but it’s warm and welcoming inside Portico with its ever-friendly volunteers, gorgeous architecture and wide range of events from classical to contemporary music not to mention stand up comedy shows and even a Christmas panto for the kids.

This weekend brings The Björn Identity on (Sat 16 Nov) for dancing queens of all ages followed on Sunday (17 Nov) afternoon by The Fews Ensemble with special guest Tenor Aaron O’Hare. Their programme includes favourites from Schubert and Barber as well as the world premiere of Amy Rooney’s ‘Response’.

Three comedians are bringing stand up shows to Portaferry in the next few weeks: William Thompson (Fri 22 Nov), Neil Delamere (Fri 29 Nov) and Tim McGarry (Fri 13 Dec).

On Sat 23 November, The Illegals featuring Niamh Kavanagh will deliver the best of The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac in one fabulous show. On Fri 6 December, another two for one special event pairs The Henry Girls with folk artists Lore to ensure a night of unforgettable harmonies.

Three festive events will get you in the mood for Christmas. First is a much-acclaimed production of Handel’s Messiah by Merry Opera (Sat 7 Dec). This dramatised version features 12 professional singers who each play characters searching for meaning in their everyday lives – a poignant, invigorating and fresh take on the seasonal classic.

Centre Stage Theatre returns with its annual family pantomime on Sunday 15 December at 3pm. This time it’s the turn of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Oh yes it is!

Just before the big day, the congregation of Portaferry Presbyterian Church and The Newquay Singers invite everyone to join them for their annual Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday 22 December at 7pm.

Portico is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and by Ards and North Down Borough Council. To find out more about Portico or its programme please visit porticoards.com

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Mahon’s Hotel, Irvinestown, County Fermanagh

On selected midweek dates across November, why not escape with a relaxing break in the Fermanagh Lakelands at Mahon’s Hotel. From £130 per person sharing, enjoy a two-night stay with breakfast served each morning. This package includes dinner on one evening in their casual dining area (£17.50 token per person) and an Aperol Spritz. After a comfortable stay, a hearty breakfast on your first morning, you will then go on a guided walk of Castle Irvine Estate with Joe Mahon (one of the owners of Mahon’s Hotel). Offers available until 29 November. Visit https://www.mahonshotel.co.uk/walk-the-lough-break-2/ for more information.

 

The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim

An Autumn Escape awaits you on the Causeway Coast at the iconic Bushmills Inn. Enjoy a cream tea by the fireside on arrival, savour chef’s three-course seasonal dinner and then have a restful night’s sleep followed by a hearty breakfast the next morning. From £245 per room for two people, this offer is available until the end of November. Visit https://www.bushmillsinn.com/ for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 11 – 17 November

 

  1. Belfast Christmas Market, 16 November – 22 December. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the award-winning Belfast Christmas Market is back with a nostalgic Victorian twist. On the first weekend (November 16th to 17th) and again on the third weekend (November 30th to December 1st), step into a charming Dickensian world as you stroll through the market, surrounded by iconic characters from Charles Dickens’ novels. Enjoy enchanting storytelling, lively performances, and the festive atmosphere of a bygone era. With over 100 international and local traders, the market offers a delightful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan products and festive treats.
  2. Full Moon Sound Spa Experience @ Templemore Baths Heritage Space, Belfast, 14 November. Step into a journey of tranquility and rejuvenation within the walls of the former Minor Pool at Templemore Baths Heritage Space, a testament to the rich Victorian history of Belfast. Tessa Ann brings her Sound Spa Experience to this former aquatic space, under her theme of Sound Space Connect, ‘Connecting People, Places and Spaces through Sound’. Prepare to embark on an ethereal experience unlike any other, as the echoes of thousands who once learned to swim here infuse the air with a sense of timeless energy.
  3. One-Day Blacksmithing Course at Patterson’s Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim, 16 Novem History and craftsmanship combine in these blacksmithing classes. Sign up for a one-day course to develop a new hobby, you’ll learn traditional forging and blacksmithing techniques, creating something bespoke under the expert guidance of the professional Blacksmith team.
  4. Shakespeare’s Women at The Old Church Centre, Cushendun, County Antrim, 15 November. Commedia of Errors present this new production of their smash hit Shakespeare’s Women. Described as ‘Polished, thoughtful and good fun’, the debut play by Clare McMahon returns. Seamlessly fusing modern comedy and drama with classical verse, audiences will see Shakespeare and his favourite women in a brand-new light.
  5. A Dander through Davagh, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, 15 November. Join a guided walk through the lush green, almost fluorescent woodland that is Davagh Forest. Improve your mood, reduce stress and follow the lead through the many forest paths. Along the way you can breath in all the sounds and sights nature has to offer. What better way to spend your Friday afternoon than getting out into the great outdoors. This will be a moderate walk up to 8km.
  6. Seamus Heaney Exhibition, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, until 30 December. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Seamus Heaney and explore through his words and imagination, the people and place that so inspired him. Previously unseen artefacts, transcripts and books kindly donated by the Heaney family are also on display, ensuring a truly unique and illuminating experience for all.
  7. Irish Fly Fair & International Angling Show, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 16 and 17 November. Visitors to the Irish Fly Fair at The Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges will have the opportunity to watch the best International Fly-dressers practice their art, whilst champion fly-casters will be available to demonstrate and advise on fly-casting techniques and fly-fishing tactics. As usual, there will be a series of talks and seminars from expert anglers on a wide range of interesting angling-related topics and of course, a massive range of top-quality trade stands selling everything the fly angler and fly dresser needs.
  8. An Evening at the Earl of Enniskillen’s Table – Florence Court House, County Fermanagh, 14 November. Step back in time as you enter the historic Florence Court House, once home to the Earls of Enniskillen. Your evening will begin with a warm welcome and a glass of something sparkling in the Grand Hall. As you enter, be serenaded by the soft strains of a harpist, adding to the charm of the evening. Indulge in a meticulously curated multi-course tasting menu, inspired by the culinary traditions of the regional area and a celebration of the finest local Fermanagh produce.
  9. Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, visit website for open dates and times. A visit to Montalto Estate is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, in a natural, historical, and truly relaxing setting. It is also a great day out for families. You know when you’ve reached the natural play area at The Low Wood when you see the impressive wooden tree house towering ahead of you. The Tree House offers a range of exciting activities and areas, including a jungle bridge, a climbing tower, and rope bridges. Make sure to visit The Christmas Shop at Montalto Estate, where you will discover a luxurious collection of enchanting decorations and festive accessories, to bring the wonder of Christmas into your home.
  10. 30th William Kennedy Piping Festival Opening Concert, Armagh, County Armagh, 14 November. Inaugurated in 1994, the William Kennedy Piping Festival has grown into one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the world. To celebrate the 30th anniversary, the festival is delighted to present a special evening of music featuring some local superstars plus music from further afield.

 

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Experience the Magic of Christmas with Festive Arts Events in Ards and North Down!

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Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Service has lined-up an array of festive events this Christmas season. The programme includes two Christmas Shopping experiences, some wonderful theatre events and Christmas Craft and Storytelling sessions!

North Down Museum’s Pop-Up Christmas Shop opens on Friday 22 November. The museum’s galleries with be festively decorated and filled with stunning, hand-made products, the perfect place to get that special gift whilst supporting local artists. The shop is free to explore during museum opening hours and will continue until Sunday 5 January.

A Christmas Carol; Ben Guest Photographer; Dyad Productions

On Thursday 28 November, the museum will host a special Twilight Shopping Event at the Pop-Up Christmas Shop. Visitors are invited to browse the museum’s galleries to purchase beautiful, handcrafted presents. The free event will also feature live music and demonstrations by local artists.

The Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre returns to Ards Arts Centre on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December, exclusively featuring artwork and handcrafted produce made by the Creative Peninsula Artists. For a unique shopping experience, visitors can browse the artworks and be inspired to purchase a wonderful, handcrafted Christmas gift, made in the Borough of Ards and North Down. Seasonal music, complimentary gift wrapping, and festive refreshments will also be on offer. The Christmas Fayre is on 4pm – 8pm on Friday 6 and 10am – 4pm on Saturday 7 December. Admission is free.

A Christmas Carol, Being A Christmas Ghost Story by Dyad Productions is happening at Space Theatre, SERC, Bangor on Thursday 28 November. Prepare to be enthralled by this version of Dicken’s classic and perennially relevant ghost story. It’s Christmas Eve and Ebeneezer Scrooge is about to have a ghostly night, he’ll never forget… Taking inspiration from Dickens’ original performances of his own work and utilising the brilliant narrator of the novel to bring the story to life, this solo piece is performed by Andrew Margerison and directed by Rebecca Vaughan.

The whole family will love Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the Queen’s Hall, Newtownards on Saturday 7 December at 2pm. Presented by Centre Stage Theatre Company, this classic family tale promises funny scripts, live original music and lots of audience participation! This fabulous production brings audiences the very best in Christmas traditional entertainment. Tickets are on sale now and cost £8.

Kids will also enjoy North Down Museum’s Christmas Storytelling with Squiggles and Giggles on Saturday 7 December. Come along for some festive stories, music and movement! Suitable for under 5s, £5.50 per child. The museum is also hosting Christmas Gift Workshops for kids on Saturday 14 December where children can make a bespoke gift for someone special in their life. Suitable for ages 7+, £7.50 per child, booking required for both events.

Speaking about the events, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council said: ‘We have lots of activity to get you in the festive spirit whether it’s an opportunity to buy hand-crafted local gifts or participate in some good old fashioned festive family fun with our annual pantomime. Don’t miss out on Dyad Productions atmospheric performance of A Christmas Carol, Being a Christmas Ghost Story, the perfect start to the festive season!’

For more information to book tickets visit: www.andculture.org.uk

Courage, Confidence & Competitions: How Explore Enterprise Helped Charmaine Humphries Progress Professionally and Personally

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Charmaine Humphries’ step into the beauty business world was one she never thought possible, but with the help of the Explore Enterprise Support Service, her vision of starting her own company became a reality.

The Dungiven native, who previously held a successful career in the care sector for nine years, stopped working in order to foster her two nephews, which became a full-time job in itself and decided not to return to her previous employment.  

Following undertaking a funded makeup course, Charmaine decided this was the direction she wanted her career to take, ultimately creating her own business, Blissful Beauty by Charmaine, earlier this year.

Speaking on why she chose to get involved, Charmaine said: “I was new in opening a business and I went in completely blind.

“It was brilliant because just having the support there was great.”

Supported by Roe Valley Enterprise business mentor Alice Quinn, Charmaine received insight into various aspects of a business, including better understanding of the financial side of running the company and building a customer base.

Charmaine’s professional partnership with Alice quickly became one of her highlights, explaining that the duo clicked immediately and formed a fast friendship.

She said: “For me the best part was building a friendship with my mentor, as she’s so positive and welcoming and she makes me feel like this is something I can do.

“I think from day one when we first met, she broke everything down and just made me feel so at ease.”

“She’s helped me gain the confidence I needed.”

Despite Charmine being initially unaware of the service programme, her time within Explore Enterprise helped her passion project grow exponentially to the point where it was a profitable, sustainable business.

She said: “I didn’t expect to receive the mentoring that I got or the support and I wasn’t aware so much help and advice was available to me being a new business. 

“In doing so my business is starting to thrive: since opening my salon, I was nominated as a finalist for Best New Salon in the UK and I placed in the top 40.

“I feel that without the background, support and funding from Explore Enterprise, to get extra support either through education or just getting equipment, I don’t think the business would be doing as well.”

As well as being recognised in top 25 for Best In Brows within the United Kingdom, Charmaine still has lots of upcoming competition entries in which she hopes to flourish.

Funded by the UK Government, the Explore Enterprise Support Service supports entrepreneurs from across the country to reach their full potential, providing timely support, informed guidance, s and advice to anyone ambitious enough to simply give it a go.

The Explore Enterprise Support Service has received £1.8m from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.  

Following on from the success of her own business, and the extremely positive experience she had, Charmaine encourages anyone considering being part of the service to get involved.

Charmaine said: “It has given me a lot more courage. If you have it as a dream, definitely take the risk and go for it, it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. 

“Now, it’s not all rainbows and butterflies, far from it, but you have to work at it to reap the rewards, and when you do, it’s life-changing.”

Charmaine Humphries is just one of the successful business owners helped by Enterprise NI, with more than 3,500 small, micro and self-employed enterprises being supported each week, bridging the gap between business ideas and entrepreneurship.

For more information on Enterprise NI go to www.enterpriseni.com

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