Author: Tina Calder

4 Corners Festival Bringing Young People Together Through Sports

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Uniting young people with a Game of 4 Corners

This year’s 4 Corners Festival is set to bring young people from local communities across Belfast together through the medium of sport.

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival, which features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events, will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

One of the many activities taking place within the festival is the Game of 4 Corners on Wednesday February 7 from 6-9pm, which sees young people from all areas of Belfast brought together through the power of sports.

PeacePlayers NI are facilitating the event, open to all young people aged 11 to 14, of sport and team activities, focusing on positive lessons and outcomes, on and off the court.

Games such as Gaelic football, soccer, basketball and rugby will be played by integrated teams from Belfast as well as having on-site PeacePlayers Coaches and mentors to help participants throughout the 3-hour long event.

During the event the young people will hear inspiring stories from local sportsmen and women and be encouraged to consider how they can contribute to a positive culture on and off the pitch. 

Gareth Harper, PeacePlayers Managing Director, said he’s delighted to once again work with the 4 Corners Festival team to co-design an exciting and high energy event.  

He said: “PeacePlayers coaches will be on hand to lend their expertise of facilitating fun, engaging and inclusive peace building through sport activities to what will be an amazing event.  

“Young people from the 4 Corners of the City will have the opportunity, some for the first time, to play and learn together about sports from Northern Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.”

Pre-registration is required for this event which is open to individuals and youth groups from across Belfast. Visit the 4 Corners Festival website for details on how to register.

Ed Peterson of Clonard Monastery, representing the 4 Corners Festival, explained that the event is aimed at bringing young people from all communities, backgrounds and corners of the city together.

He said: “I love the overall ethos of the 4 Corners Festival to encourage all of us to get out of our corner of the city, not only just the geographical corner of the city to experience other parts of Belfast but also just around other ideas and opportunities.

“Young people can meet new people and explore various different subject matters together with people from different areas of Belfast or even beyond.”

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com 

15 Unique Events Taking Place At This Year’s 4 Corners Festival

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Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival is set to deliver 15 interesting and unique events across all four corners of Belfast.

The festival, which features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events, will run from February 1 to 11.

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is “about showcasing Belfast and the stories of the people reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community”.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

 

Here are 15 events you should check out at this year’s festival:

 

  1. Unveiled – Stories In Scripture

Sunday 4th February 2024, 7pm, Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, 77 University Street

The opening Sunday will set up some of the Biblical thought for the Festival week. 

Clare Hayns, who is College Chaplain at Christ Church in Oxford, has authored a book called Unveiled about the lesser known women in Scriptures. 

She will also be joined by her son Micah who beautifully illustrated the book and will help to try and teach the audience how to draw. 

Music for the evening will be by 4 Corners Festival favourites Beki Hemingway and her husband Randy Kerkman. 

‘Unveiled – Stories In Scripture’, will be followed by Night Prayer, which provides an opportunity for a period of creative and contemplative prayer.

This event is taking place both in person and online, with the event live streamed on Youtube.

You can book tickets on https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/unveiled-stories-in-scripture/ 

 

  1. Discovering Jesus in the Other: Challenging the Myth of Otherness Book Launch And Meet The Authors: Alan Abernethy and Jim Deeds

Monday 5th February 2024, 7.30pm, Agape Centre, 236-266 Lisburn Road

Why not join Bishop Alan Abernathy and Jim Deeds, a Catholic lay Pastoral Worker as they recount their experiences and faith journey in the context of “The Troubles’ and a divided community. 

During the event, they will discuss how the process of writing the book helped them both to challenge the myth of otherness. 

Music will also be provided by Beki Hemingway and Randy Kerkman.

To book tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/discovering-jesus-in-the-other-challenging-the-myth-of-otherness-book-launch-and-meet-the-authors/ 

 

  1. Craic And Chronicles

Tuesday 6th February 2024, 4-6pm, 2 Royal Avenue

This is a creative workshop that is running in partnership with the Belfast Stories Project.

It provides everyone with an opportunity to explore creative writing, storytelling and craft in an informal atmosphere.

There are also light refreshments, with the event accompanied by a performance of musical storytelling.

To book tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/craic-and-chronicles/ 

 

  1. Donal Walsh: A Story of Hope

Tuesday 6th February 2024, 7.30pm, Ekenhead Memorial Halls, North Circular Road

Donal Walsh touched many lives when he came to prominence through his writings and subsequent appearance on Brendan O’Connor’s ‘The Saturday Night Show’. 

The teenager from Kerry fundraised tirelessly while battling cancer and has now had the Donal Walsh #Livelife Foundation set up by his family in order to promote his anti-suicide message. 

The event will consist of a chat with Donal’s mother, Elma Walsh, who will discuss how she is continuing to honour her son’s legacy. 

Music on the evening will be provided by the Fitzroy Collective who will perform songs from their Gospel, according to the late Sinead O’Connor. 

To reserve your tickets go to  https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/donal-walsh-a-story-of-hope/ 

 

  1. Matchbox City

Wednesday 7th February 2024, 12.30-2.30pm, 2 Royal Avenue

Matchbox City is a creative arts workshop, running in partnership with the Belfast Stories Project.

This event focuses on exploring the connection between memory and places or spaces in Belfast. 

Each participant is invited to add their own matchbox memory to help build an alternative cityscape.

You can book tickets here https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/match-box-city/ 

 

  1. Game of 4 Corners

Wednesday 7th February 2024, 6-9pm, QUB PEC, Stranmillis Embankment

Young people aged between 11 and 14 are invited to an exciting evening of sports and team activities delivered in partnership with PeacePlayers – NI. 

Participants will try their hand at playing games including basketball, Gaelic football, rugby and soccer in integrated teams from across Belfast. 

They will hear inspiring stories from local sportsmen and women and be encouraged to consider how they can contribute to a positive culture on and off the pitch. 

Pre-registration is required for this event which is open to individuals and youth groups from across Belfast. 

You can join the guestlist by going to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/game-of-4-corners/ 

 

  1. The Blue Lights Story

Wednesday 7th February 2024, 7.30pm, All Saints College, Glen Road

Following a highly successful first series, the BBC has now commissioned a second series of the police drama Blue Lights. 

Screen writers Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson will join Tyree Patton (MA student in Journalism at Ulster University) for an evening of conversation.

The event is followed by a Q&A session at All Saints College in West Belfast where part of the series was filmed.

To book tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/the-blue-lights-story/ 

 

  1. Deadbeat Avenue 

Thursday 8th February 2024, 7pm, Methodist College Belfast (Whitla Hall), 1 Malone Road

If you like a bit of drama then why not come along to Deadbeat Avenue?

The play is performed by primary school pupils from across Belfast, with assistance from Play it by Ear Drama Company.

The audience will be introduced to the inhabitants of Deadbeat Avenue, where they will tell their stories of perseverance, courage and hope.

To reserve tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/deadbeat-avenue/ 

 

  1. Celebrating Young Voices Hopes For The Future

Thursday 8th February 2024, 7.30pm, 2 Royal Avenue

This event celebrates the creativity, passion and aspirations of young people in Belfast. 

Hear the stories of young people who are leading the way in various spheres of influence. 

Speakers include Jamie-Lukas Campbell, James Hamber, Iona Holt, Chloe Marks, Michael McPeake and Inez Murray, with Hedley Abernethy facilitating the discussion. 

The music at the event will be provided by Noah Mitchell. 

You can book tickets here https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/celebrating-young-voices-hopes-for-the-future/ 

 

  1. An Evening In Conversation With TRÚ

Friday 9th February 2024, 7.30pm, Orangefield, Presbyterian Church, 464 Castlereagh Road

In ancient Ulster the Trú were a trio of poet-musicians whose songs told the story of the future. 

When Zach Trouton, Dónal Kearney and Michael Mormech came together to refresh Irish traditional music with their songs and blended harmonies they decided to take the name. 

This modern trio combines Irish nationalist, Ulster-Scots and British-Ukrainian heritages.

At this event, Steve Stockman will talk to Zac, Donal and Michael about their personal stories, with Mylie Brennan delving into what the stories they sing are all about. 

To reserve your tickets go to  https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/an-evening-in-conversation-with-tru/ 

 

  1. Wonderful Wander

Saturday 10 Feb 2024,1.30pm, starting at the Knock Road entrance to Connswater Greenway/Marshwiggle Way, opposite Glen Road.

This year’s event heads east to explore another of Belfast’s expanding network of greenways.

Wander along Marshwiggle Way and through the setting for Van Morrison’s “Orangefield”, where you can uncover some of the ancient, industrial, natural and artistic history of Belfast.

The walk will finish with refreshments at East Belfast Mission in the Skainos Centre.

A bus will be provided to return participants to any cars parked near the start of the walk.

To book tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/wonderful-wander/ 

 

  1. 4 Corners Knitters

Saturday 10th February 2024, 2.30pm, Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, 77 University Street

Knitting the 4 Corners together with two forms of yarn (wool and conversation) has become a mainstay of the Festival over recent years. 

Avid knitters from across the corners are invited to a day of chat and productivity. 

In recent years Homeplus and the People’s Kitchen have benefitted from the knitwear.

You can book tickets here https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/4-corners-knitters/ 

 

  1. The Stories That Shape Us

Saturday 10th February 2024, 7.30pm, Clayton Hotel, 22-26 Ormeau Avenue

This event is supported by the Linen Quarter Business Improvement District.

It hears from five public figures who tell us about a book that was significant in their lives and why. 

The speakers will also be performing rehearsed readings from their chosen books.

To reserve tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/the-stories-that-shape-us/ 

 

  1. Morning Service

Sunday 11th February 2024, 10am, 120 Cliftonville Road

This year’s annual 4 Corners Festival broadcast service on BBC Radio Ulster will look biblically at the Festival theme. 

Preacher Rev Doug Gay will explore biblical teaching on Christian hope for the present and the future and how we can share the fruits of this hope with others. 

Attendees must be present and seated by 9.30 am.

You can book tickets here https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/morning-service/ 

 

  1. Towards A Culture Of Hope

Sunday 11th February 2024, 7pm, St Comgall’s, Divis St

The closing event at the 4 Corners Festival 2024 will encourage people to create a culture of hope. 

Author, songwriter and theologian Rev Doug Gay will ruminate on what a hopeful imagination looks like and how we can land it on the streets and back alleys of our city. 

He will be joined by the stunning voice and songs of Eilidh Patterson.

This event will be followed by Night Prayer in person and online at 9.30pm.

To reserve tickets go to https://www.4cornersfestival.com/festival-events/towards-a-culture-of-hope/ 

 

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com 

Businesses Should Prioritise Employee Mental & Emotional Health In 2024 Says Healthy Mind Coach

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The start of the new year can be the perfect opportunity for businesses to prioritise the mental and emotional wellbeing of their employees.

New Year resolutions are in full swing for many individuals who are choosing to take up new hobbies and concentrate on their emotional and physical wellbeing this year. 

Sam Barr of Healthy Mind Coaching & Training said it’s time for businesses to reflect on the past year and choose to put the needs of their employees first. 

He explained: “It is essential that businesses put their employees’ mental health & wellbeing first this year. Looking after the workforce has so many benefits for businesses and the individuals that make up the company.

“This time of year can bring a new lease of life to the workplace. After a season of rest and relaxation, work anxieties and tensions subside. Encouraging an atmosphere of positive energy in the workplace will allow staff the freedom to work with less stress. Businesses really need to consider how well they support employee emotional & mental wellbeing.”

“If businesses acknowledge the importance of their employee emotional & mental wellbeing they will see multiple benefits.”

Healthy Mind Coaching offers a range of CBT and Positive Psychology based services for individuals and staff members. Sam also offers workplace wellness & wellbeing workshops, empowering staff with strategies to foster positive mental health and emotional resilience. Most popular with businesses and organisations are his workshop sessions and 1-2-1s on specific mental health issues like stress management, anxiety, bullying and promoting a healthy work environment.

Speaking of the benefits to businesses, Sam said: “Acknowledging the value of employee mental and emotional wellbeing, which can reduce sickness absence and staff turnover. Often, when employees feel mentally overwhelmed they take a sick day. This will not improve in the long run unless their workplace is supportive of individual mental health & wellbeing needs.”

“Prioritising mental health & wellbeing can boost staff morale and engagement. When employees have improved mental health & emotional wellbeing they are more likely to talk positively about the care given, workplace, business, resulting in boosting the business’ reputation.”

To help businesses prioritise employees mental & emotional wellbeing here are Sam’s top tips: 

  1. Mutual Trust & Respect

Sam said: “Mutual trust and respect in the workplace is essential for employee engagement. Staff abilities must be appreciated and valued. To convey trust and respect, encourage employees to work independently. When work is completed, express appreciation. If somebody has done a particularly impressive job make sure to publicly appreciate their achievement.”

  1. Open Communication

“Encourage employees to seek mental health support when it is needed” said Sam, adding: “Remove the stigma surrounding mental health concerns by creating an honest and open dialogue. Raise awareness and promote discussion by encouraging one to one HR meetings to ensure staff are feeling listened to.”

  1. Work/Life Balance

“Express the importance of work/life balance by allowing employees to leave work in the workplace. Respect the boundaries of employees by not expecting them to work excessive overtime hours. Try not to contact them during their out of work hours. Encourage employees to keep up their hobbies by learning their interests and asking about their progress” said Sam.

  1. Tackle Work Induced Stress

Sam explained: “Make work life more manageable for employees by reflecting on how the business needs to improve. Create manageable workloads for employees. Improve negative relationships and poor communication. 

“Consider how much support employees get from management. Those who fear job insecurity are more likely to have low job satisfaction. Try to reduce work induced stress for employees by reflecting over what the company can do to help.”

  1. Consider Offering Employees a Mental Wellbeing Course

“If businesses feel overwhelmed by mental health concerns be it individual or company wide, consider attending a mental health workshop. This team building activity is invaluable to the productivity of staff and overall happiness” said Sam. 

  1. Support Employees with Mental Health Problems

Sam believes businesses need to prove their sincerity in prioritising mental and emotional wellbeing. 

He said: “Establishing open communication with staff members and showing trust and respect is essential. Staff should work to develop a personal action plan, at this stage it might be important to refer them to support services.” 

For more information on what Healthy Mind Coaching and Training can do for your company go to healthymindcoaching.co.uk 

4 Corners Festival To Tell The Story Behind BBC’s Blue Lights Police Drama

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The screenwriters behind the successful BBC police drama Blue Lights have joined the lineup of the 4 Corners Festival next month to tell the story behind their critically acclaimed TV show.

Writer Declan Lawn (from Ballymena) and Adam Patterson (from Dromore) will be interviewed by Ulster University student Tyree Patton who will explore the stories they chose to tell within the Blue Lights series.

Blue Lights follows new police recruits Grace, Annie, and Tommy, as they learn the ropes in a high-pressure environment.

Speaking of the event Tyree said: “I’m delighted to be getting the opportunity to interview Declan and Adam about their Blue Lights Journey. 

“The series tells an excellent story of Northern Ireland’s policing service in the 21st century and the interview taking place where part of the series was filmed makes it all the more special.

“The Blue Lights story being very fitting for the theme of the 4 Corners Festival this year, I look forward to sitting down to help tell it.”

The event, taking place at All Saints College, Glen Road on Wednesday February 7, was part of the first series.

Having now wrapped on their second series speaking at the launch of the 4 Corners Festival last month Declan revealed the challenges behind creating stories that resonate with the audiences.

He said: “All writing is a challenge, it should be challenging. If it’s not then you probably aren’t doing it right.

“It’s a very difficult thing to balance a lot of characters, authenticity is really important. So you need to do a lot of research

“Just writing is the most energising and wonderful thing I’ve ever done. But it’s also the most challenging thing I’ve ever done.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

Co-founder Martin Magill said securing the Blue Lights writers as part of the lineup of the festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase storytelling at its best in the local screen industry.

He added: “I was delighted when we heard that Declan and Adam had agreed to take part in this year’s festival.  

“I found Blue Lights not only gripping and poignant but also thought provoking and challenging for example on how one of the episodes dealt with the shooting of a 15 year old child by members of an armed gang”. 

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

“There is a correlation between the stories we tell and the culture we live in. Stories can highlight common ground, increase understanding and create connections. They hold the power to have a positive impact on our community and promote hope for the future” explained Megan Boyd, 4 Corners Festival Administrator.

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com 

Folk Music Stars Trú To Take To The Stage At 4 Corners Festival Next Month

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Folk music stars Trú have been confirmed as the latest musical act to be added to the 4 Corners Festival lineup next month.

The band will be taking to the stage at An Evening In Conversation with Trú where 4 Corners Festival co-founder Steve Stockman and committee member Mylie Brennan will interview the band about their background, individual experiences and the stories behind the songs.

Trú are a trio of well known musicians Zach Trouton, Dónal Kearney and Michael Mormecha who came together to refresh Irish traditional music with their songs and blended harmonies.

Their name comes from the ancient Ulster Trú who were a trio of poet-musicians whose songs told the story of the future.

Throughout the evening on Friday February 9 at Orangefield Presbyterian Church in East Belfast, the band will also perform some of their songs, Irish trad blended with the most sublime harmonies

Speaking of the event, Steve said: “We’re delighted to have Trú on board for this year’s festival and look forward to hearing the story of how Trú came to be. The band sing about some of our longest handed down local stories so for this year’s festival they were the perfect band for An Evening In Conversation.”

Best known for their debut album No Fixed Abode which Clannad’s Moya Brennan declared as “absolutely amazing”, Michael Mormecha of the band said fans are sure to hear a few of the album’s best known Gaelic Waulking and Scots lullabies songs as well as music from their recently released album Eternity Near.

He added: “We are really excited to be part of 4 Corners, the ethos of the festival really resonates with our approach to Trú, we draw inspiration from all over this island and beyond to try and create something unique and special and that’s what this festival is known for. 

“This will be our first show of the year and our first since the release of our second record Eternity Near was released with a sold out album launch in the Duncairn.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

“There is a correlation between the stories we tell and the culture we live in. Stories can highlight common ground, increase understanding and create connections. They hold the power to have a positive impact on our community and promote hope for the future” explained Megan Boyd, 4 Corners Festival Administrator.

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com 

Crusaders Strikers Welcome Rising Star Mia Moore To Their Team

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In a significant boost to their squad, Crusaders Strikers have officially announced the signing of the promising young footballer, Mia Moore.

The 16-year-old midfielder, renowned for her scoring prowess, joins the Strikers after a stellar debut senior season with Linfield, where she netted an impressive 10 goals.

Jonny Tuffey, the manager of Crusaders Strikers, said he was delighted to add Mia to the team: “For someone still young in age, she has good experience playing at the first-team level as well as internationally, at U17 and U19.

“Mia’s talent and ability are clear for everyone to see, and we believe she will add strength to what I believe is already a very good group, making us more threatening in the final third.”

Moore’s football journey has been impressive from the start. She captained the U15 Bob Doc squad and progressed through the ranks to earn a call-up for the U19s at just 16.

Tuffey said the management and coaching team was “impressed” by her focus and ambition: “From speaking to Mia, it was so refreshing to hear that her sole focus was playing football, wanting to learn, develop, and improve, as well as helping us improve and become even more competitive in seasons ahead.”

Sue O’Neill, the Director of Women’s Football at Crusaders Football Club and Chairperson of Crusaders Strikers said choosing players that fit the Strikers and Crusaders club ethos is a vital part of the selection process.

She added: “Qualities we look for are a commitment to the club and a professional attitude to improving their ability.

“We have always been a club that nurtures youth, with over seven players in our first team coming through our academy.

“Mia adds to this ethos with her youth and enthusiasm to play for Strikers. There is a great support network of people who all want the player to do well.

“We also believe in checking out our players’ mental health to make sure they are valued and understood.

“We don’t just want great footballers; we want to create good people. Football provides players with great life skills.

“Setting goals, working as a team, dealing with setbacks, then going again. The Crusaders women’s football team is a family.”

Reflecting on her signing, Mia Moore said: “A couple of years ago, I came, trained, and played a match with Crusaders. I was probably around like ten or 11. But I was given an opportunity at another club.

“With the Strikers, what made me sign on the dotted line was everything from the first meeting I had with Jonny, which was great.

“Also, the Seaview Stadium facilities, and everything that goes with that is great. I played against the team last year, and I’m really excited to meet all the players and go win some games.

“Thinking ahead for the new season, I hope that we can win some trophies and move up the table.”

Moore’s addition to Crusaders Strikers heralds an exciting era for the club, signalling their commitment to fostering young talent and achieving success in the competitive world of women’s football.

Belfast Agency Excalibur Press To Launch 2024 Training Webinar Series

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When it comes to marketing your business, product or service most small businesses will depend on digital channels such as their website, social media and other platforms such as Google My Business.

According to Fit Small Business 70% of small businesses say they use social media in their marketing strategy whilst Linkedin reveals 90% of companies in general will leverage websites and blogs the most in their content marketing strategy.

In order to truly maximise the opportunities available online to market and promote your business it’s important to have a robust digital and content marketing strategy and plan.

According to Invoca 81% of shoppers say they’ll conduct online research before making an in-store or online purchase.

With this in mind, Belfast based multidisciplinary marketing and communications agency Excalibur Press has launched a new webinar training series with both free and paid for sessions aimed at helping businesses create a social media content strategy, improve their blogging and content marketing, as well as giving top tips and tricks to creating effective communications for promoting your product online and thought leadership. 

Delivered by trainer and content strategist Tina Calder, the sessions will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning on January 2. They will include How To Set Up Your Social Media Content Strategy & Plan For 2024 (January 2), 45 Marketing Assets You Need To Have A Successful 2024 (January 11),  Raising Your Profile Using Thought Leadership (February 15) and The Power Of Influencer For Promoting Your Business (February 22).

Speaking of the sessions Tina said: “Micro, small and medium businesses more than ever before need support and assistance with their marketing. 

“For many of those businesses that spend is a luxury and often the first to go when things get tough.

“There’s no question the last few years have taken their toll on business owners and the fight to survive and thrive has become a crowded space.”

Tina explained the 90 minute sessions are specifically designed to “offer business owners practical and actionable support that will help them streamline, maximise and optimise their marketing activity.”

She added: “Throughout the sessions I will be revealing all the tools, systems and processes we use at Excalibur Press to create good quality content and marketing tactics for our clients as well as lift the lid on the secrets other professionals don’t want you to know.

“These sessions will help businesses reduce their stress levels when it comes to creating a social media content strategy, improving their blogging and content marketing as well as creating effective communications for promoting their product online and honing their marketing messages and brand story.

To book on to any of the forthcoming webinars go to excaliburpress.co.uk/events 

4 Corners Festival 2024 Reveals Programme Highlights At Launch Event

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The annual 4 Corners Festival is set to return in February 2024 with a packed lineup of events which include everything from talks, discussions and exhibitions to music and literature.

Now in its 12th year, the festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

Speaking at the launch at The Hub Belfast, committee member George Sproule said:

“We’re great at telling stories, but sometimes we need to challenge the stories that we do tell. The other thing is that sometimes we’re not very good at listening to other people’s stories.

“A well written and well told story changes the way you think about things and changes the way you look at the world.

“Our theme this year is OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope. We want each other to listen to each other’s stories and the events throughout the festival are designed to do just that.”

With storytelling at the heart of the forthcoming festival renowned storyteller Liz Weir was on hand at the launch to discuss the importance of storytelling in today’s world.

She said: ”I really believe that stories are transformational. Because it’s very difficult to hate somebody, once you know their story. Isn’t that true? 

“Even if you disagree with another person, just pay them the respect of listening to what they have to say. I feel that very strongly. 

“In the work I do and have done for 50 years now, I’ve seen a lot of that. The impact that a good story can have because the listening is the most important thing”

Attendees of the launch were also given a unique preview of the Blue Lights story when journalist Tyree Patton interviewed screenwriter Declan Lawn. At the festival in February Declan and Tyree will be joined by Declan’s writing partner Adam Patterson.

Declan said: “I was really gratified to see the tagline of the festival, towards a culture of hope. For those of you who have seen the show we made, Blue Lights, there is a lot of darkness in it, it’s sort of a valley of darkness in many ways, but it is profoundly hopeful and profoundly optimistic. That’s the message of the show.”

The 4 Corners Festival believes in embracing our shared humanity, fostering connections, and creating a space where meaningful conversations can flourish. Each year the festival returns with a renewed purpose of transforming hearts, bridging divides, and leaving a lasting mark of positivity on Belfast.

The Cancer Focus Sing For Life Choir was on hand at the launch to entertain with a range of big hits and gospel numbers. 

Revealing the highlights of the festival was volunteer Shannon Campbell who said: “We have some pre-festival events in the run up to the 4th of February, but the 4 Corners Festival officially starts on Sunday the 4th. 

“That evening, we’re going to have author Claire Hayns in Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, who is one of the chaplains at Christ Church, Oxford. Her book Unveiled is about the lesser known women in Scripture. Claire’s going to be talking to us a bit about her book and she will be joined by her son who illustrated the book.

“On Monday, university students from across the city will gather at Queen’s University, where Claire will host a lunchtime discussion with students about the book. 

“On Tuesday 6th of February, we’re going to have Elma Walsh joining us at Ekenhead Memorial Halls. Elma is the mother of Donal Walsh who was diagnosed with cancer in his teens. Donal was moved by his situation, and also by the pretty harrowing suicide statistics in Ireland that year, to make a difference and to spread the message of hope among young people throughout the UK and Ireland. Elma and his whole family set up the Donal Walsh Foundation to continue that message of hope today among young people. Elma will speak to us about that and the Live Life message. 

“On Wednesday, we will have our Blue Lights story event which will be taking place in All Saints College on the Glen Road and it will take the form of a Q&Q. 

“On Thursday 8th, Celebrating Young Voices Hopes For The Future at 7.30pm at 2 Royal Avenue. So we’re going to hear about the stories of young people who are leading the way in various spheres of influence.

“The festival will officially draw to a close on Sunday 11th of February with an event entitled Towards A Culture Of Hope at St Comgall’s on the Divis Street, where Reverend Doug Gay will be talking about what a hopeful imagination looks like, and how we can discover that on the streets of our city.”

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

Tickets for the event will be available to book on the website.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com. 

Healthy Mind Coach Provides Support For Those Struggling With Loneliness During Christmas

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As the New Year fast approaches Sam Barr, Healthy Mind Coaching extends his support to those struggling with loneliness this festive period.

 

Christmas can churn up mixed emotions for many people, especially those who have lost loved ones or who live alone. Although these emotions can feel inescapable it is important to acknowledge that there are ways to turn this festive season into a positive one.

 

Sam Barr of Healthy Mind Coaching & Training in Belfast said: “Sadly, as Christmas comes around so many people struggle with feeling alone. It is important at this time of year to reach out to friends and family. If this feels particularly overwhelming perhaps it’s time to speak to a professional.”

“I hope people can take a brave step at this isolating time of year to put themselves first. Reaching out can be daunting but it is so important to nurture your mental & emotional wellbeing.”

Sam’s company Healthy Mind Coaching & Training offers a range of services including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and counselling for both individuals and professionals. To encourage people to reach out for their mental health he offers a free 20 minute initial consultation. 

To help people through this challenging time of year Sam provides his advice for people struggling with loneliness:

1. Reach Out To Friends And Family

“Often when people are struggling with loneliness the hardest step is to be vulnerable and explain how you feel. Speak to somebody who you trust and explain how you feel isolated this year.”

“You could fill up your schedule by organising to see each other more often. The support of loved ones is so important and might help you to feel less alone at a difficult time of the year.”

2. Try Out A New Hobby

“Use the festive period as the perfect chance to try something different. The lack of daylight in the winter means it is essential to get out there to boost your mood.”

“You could try a new exercise class, a new crafting hobby or going to a social group. A weekly activity will help you to feel a sense of community and boost your mood when you are feeling low.”

3. Self-Care

“Although you might feel particularly alone it is important that you take time to look after yourself. Small rituals dedicated to making yourself feel better will help to support your mental health.”

“Take time to evaluate what makes you happy and how you would like to spend your time. When you feel more confident in yourself, socialising and speaking to loved ones will feel easier.”

4. Be Prepared For Bumps In The Road

“Sometimes the path to feeling better isn’t linear. You need to give yourself grace when you have small setbacks.”

“See setbacks as a learning experience, use them to evaluate whether your thoughts about a situation are true and rational. Ultimately you might experience a few small setbacks which can help you feel like your usual self again.”

5. Seek Professional Help

“If you feel particularly overwhelmed this festive season perhaps it’s time to reach out for professional help. Professionals can offer an impartial perspective allowing you to explain just how you feel without any judgement.”

“I hope that people feel ready to speak up this festive season.”

Learn more about Healthy Mind Coaching and Training or book your free 20-min consultation by calling Sam today on 07906 869616 or go to healthymindcoaching.co.uk 

New Memoir ‘Second Chances’ Recounts Pro Hockey Player’s Battle With Brain Cancer

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Craigavon born pro hockey player Matthew Bell thought not being selected for the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro was the worst day of his life. Little did he know the hardest times were ahead of him.

Once an international hockey player, Matthew’s life was upended when he was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumour while playing professionally in Germany. 

Despite the hard times Matthew has now released a new biography recounting his journey back to the pitch through facing multiple surgeries, the loss of basic human life skills, and a gruelling rehabilitation. 

When it came to sharing his story, Matthew, 28, was inspired by someone with a similar experience.

He explained: “Whenever I was going through my recovery I watched a youtube video of a police officer who had a brain stem stroke. I couldn’t believe how similar our recovery processes were and I saw that she had written a book.

“I messaged her and she sent me the book out and I read it in two days, I couldn’t set it down. It made me want to document my recovery.”

Matthew spent six weeks in hospital in Germany and endured five surgeries before being flown home to Belfast by air ambulance to start cancer treatment. While away from home he stopped eating, talking and walking for seven weeks. Matthew’s parents were told by the consultant neurologist that he couldn’t tell them if their son would ever walk or talk again.

“The first day I ran unaided my dad said to me he didn’t think he’d ever see me run again. I was in a wheelchair for two months so the first time I ran unaided, I cried.”

“A lot of people have said over the course of my recovery that it’s inspirational and all these different things and I thought if I could get that down into a few words, if it can help benefit the charity that I stayed in for my cancer treatment as well then why not? 

“The idea behind the book is if you do feel like there is something wrong go get yourself checked out because you never know what the issue could be.”

For Matthew the future looks bright. “ I’m back playing hockey. I’m assistant coach for the men’s firsts at Banbridge and I’m helping out with a couple of Ulster things as well. I’ve also recently got engaged and I’d like to say thanks to Jane for being by my side and helping me with the book. You’ve been my rock over the last couple of years and I can’t wait to get married.”

Matthew’s book, published by Excalibur Press, is on sale now with a launch to be announced at a later date, where Matthew will be signing copies of the book along with talking about his journey in conversation with publisher Tina Calder.

Speaking of the book Tina Calder, director at Excalibur Press, said: “Matthew’s journey is one of resilience, strength and sheer determination to overcome the odds. He is an inspiration and this book is a first hand account of the ups and downs of his incredible journey.

“We are absolutely delighted that Matthew chose to publish with Excalibur Press.”

Second Chances, which will support Friends of The Cancer Centre, is £9.99 and is available from excaliburpress.co.uk 

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