Author: Tina Calder

The annual 4 Corners Festival is back for another packed lineup of events next year.

The organising committee has announced its dates for 2025 and a new thought provoking theme HOME?

The festival, which will feature a range of art, music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events, runs from January 31 to February 9, 2025 in venues across the city. 

Now in its 13th 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 2025 4 Corners Festival is once again set to inspire connection, reflection and community through a dynamic lineup of events spanning a wide range of disciplines, such as art, music, discussion, sport and other activities.

Held throughout the city, this year’s programme revolves around the central theme of HOME?, an exploration of the complex and multifaceted idea of a place which holds both connection and disjointedness.

According to the organisers 2025’s theme of HOME? is deeply rooted in Scripture, offering a spiritual dimension to the conversation, with passages like Psalm 68:6 and Revelation 21:3 forming an inspiring foundation for many of the festival’s events.

Speaking on what the upcoming theme means for the organisation, Steve Stockman, 4 Corners Festival co-founder, identified that the focus is rooted in Belfast and its community.

He said: “Home is a powerful metaphor, used by poets, preachers, politicians and others seeking to paint a picture of a sense of belonging to a place. 

“The idea is also used in various encouraging and challenging ways within the Old and New Testament scriptures, but not all homes are happy.

“From the beginning of the 4 Corners Festival we have aimed at encouraging people to get out of the physical corners of this city we call home, and to feel more at home in different parts of their own city; to realise that their home is bigger than they thought.

Fellow festival co-founder Father Martin Magill, hopes the theme of HOME? will bring awareness to the city’s residents, not just shedding light on the encouragement of tourists to the area.

Martin said: “The strapline for Belfast City Council’s current tourism strategy is ‘Make Yourself at Home’, with a laudable emphasis on inclusion. 

“But what about those who already call Belfast their home – be they people whose families have lived here from before it became a city, to those who have settled here from all over the world for all kinds of reasons; those who rarely leave their corner of the city, to those who left it years ago but love to come ‘home’ for special events, including the 4 Corners Festival; those who live in a comfortable home in a vibrant community, to those who are some of the many unseen homeless in our city, not just those who sleep on our streets; those who know every nook and cranny of our city and its complex history, to those who feel uneasy with the direction that the city seems to be heading in the future?”

4 Corners Festival will encompass a wide variety of talks, discussions, practical workshops and more, spreading the word of local and global contextual issues across its ten day run. 

Aimed at broadening perspectives and helping people to think about bigger issues, such as homelessness, the care of our common home, the earth, transport and accessibility within our home city, these heavy integral topics are interwoven together with lighthearted festivities like music, poetry, drama and the visual arts.

The event’s schedule of activities will also challenge attendees to step beyond the physical and psychological ‘corners’ of Belfast, discovering new parts of their city, fresh perspectives and meaningful connections.

4 Corners Festival has always sought to transform Belfast into a city of deeper connections and shared humanity, with part of the festival acting as a bridge to bring people together, facilitating a celebration of diversity and sparking essential conversations.

As always, all 4 Corners Festival events are free of charge, though advance booking is required and tickets will be available to book online via the website.

Reflecting on 4 Corners’ outreach and its intention, Father Magill added: “We want this festival to be a celebration of our home city.

“As ever, it is not an end in itself but seeks to highlight what is already happening in the 4 Corners of our city, and perhaps to initiate further creative conversations on how we might all contribute to making our home an even better place to live.”

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.

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

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

TechFoundHer’s Book Club is back on Monday, 11 November, with an exclusive opportunity to hear from Marcia Dawood—an early-stage investor, TEDx speaker, and author of Do Good While Doing Well. This online event will take place from 7pm to 8:15pm and will be hosted by Suzanne Mills, a leading global innovator and startup ecosystem builder.

Marcia Dawood, who has invested in more than fifty early-stage companies and funds, will discuss how angel investing can be a vehicle for meaningful change, allowing individuals to align their financial goals with positive social impact. Her book, Do Good While Doing Well, explores the power of angel investing to drive change while generating financial and emotional rewards.

Attendees will hear from Marcia about her journey from being an investor in early-stage companies to serving on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee, her role as a venture partner at Mindshift Capital, and her leadership in initiatives like the award-winning documentary Show Her The Money.

The event will be introduced by Máirín Murray, founder of TechFoundHer, who will welcome attendees. Suzanne Mills will then lead the book club discussion, diving into key themes from Marcia’s book, exploring the world of angel investing, and helping attendees understand how to leverage investments for social good.

“This online event is an amazing opportunity for entrepreneurs and founders to get into the ‘head’ of a US-based angel investor and discover their rationale for investing. Marcia Dawood has such a positive message and her book is a rallying cry for those who want to do good, to consider investing in impact focused for profit companies.” explained Máirín.

In her TEDx talk Do Good While Doing Well, Marcia Dawood said: “If we really want to effect change, we can start to invest in the things we care about on a much larger scale. It also includes where we spend our time and finding ideas being worked on that haven’t reached the public yet to support. 

“We need to start to look at for-profit companies as well as non-profits. After spending an award-winning career in sales, marketing and operations for one of the largest education providers, Marcia Dawood now works on making people’s dream come true.”

The event promises to be an inspiring evening of discussion, where attendees will learn practical insights into how they too can use their investments to contribute towards creating a positive social impact, while also earning financial returns.

TechFoundHer invites anyone interested in impactful investing and empowering women-led initiatives to join this complimentary online event. 

Book your spot today to secure your place and be part of this insightful discussion. Spaces are limited, so register now at https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/techfoundher-bookclub-doing-good-while-doing-well-by-marcia-dawood-tickets-1043084412557 

The Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee is calling for business people from across the city to attend the first Entrepreneurs Unleashed conference.

The networking conference, organised by Excalibur Press and sponsored by Belfast City Council, has been tailored to enhancing the business journeys of entrepreneurs from across the city.

Taking place at the Cathy Short Theatre on November 28 in Jennymount Business Park in lower North Belfast the conference is the first of its kind in the city dedicated solely to supporting entrepreneurs at all levels.

Councillor Nelson said he was delighted to officially launch the conference, highlighting the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs at all stages of running a business.

He said: “Belfast City Council is committed to providing business support to individuals and businesses at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey.

“Entrepreneurs Unleashed provides an opportunity for businesses to hear from local industry experts, meet with key stakeholders and network with other like-minded entrepreneurs.

“This conference aims to create an environment that nurtures business growth, which is a key priority for Belfast City Council and a vital component of the Belfast Agenda, the city’s community plan.”

This day-long event aims to inspire the entrepreneurial spirit of local professionals, providing a collaborative space for networking and growth. 

Entrepreneurs Unleashed will feature a diverse panel of industry experts who will share valuable insights on a range of essential topics, including leveraging AI, effective marketing strategies, navigating the tendering process, and much more.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded aspiring and established business owners, with the event acting as a brilliant networking space.

Alongside drawing inspiration from success stories of fellow entrepreneurs, ticket holders can avail of gaining actionable insights during conversations with fellow attendees as well as headline speakers.

Organised by Tina Calder, Chief Vision Officer at multi-disciplinary media and marketing agency Excalibur Press, Entrepreneurs Unleashed is set to make its event debut inside Jennymount Business Park’s Cathy Short Theatre on Thursday, November 28. 

As a North Belfast native, Tina Calder recognises the significance of this project for the local community.

She said: “As an entrepreneur who grew up in lower North Belfast and a businesswoman who brought her business home to the area just a few months ago I’m proud to be able to deliver this exciting event just off the York Road area, a main arterial route in and out of the city.

“I am passionate about nurturing and supporting entrepreneurial spirit through my business and also as a business mentor across a number of programmes in Northern Ireland.

“I am absolutely delighted that Belfast City Council has recognised the importance of this event which is the first in a series of events and other activities we will be running throughout the rest of 2024 and into 2025.

“Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your business, Entrepreneurs Unleashed is your gateway to unlocking new opportunities.

“We are excited to offer a platform for learning and collaboration that will supercharge your entrepreneurial journey.”

Registration is now open, and interested attendees are encouraged to sign up early to secure their spots.

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 

The remaining six speakers for the upcoming Big Marketing Meet Up event have been revealed, completing the 15-person strong programme.

The November 14 day-long feat will see professionals from all areas of industry expertise share their top tips, teachings and potential prescience with attendees.

Big Marketing Meet Ups are also renowned for their networking opportunities, enabling ticket holders to socialise with the community and meet like minded individuals.

Attendees will also avail of enticing extras, including a fully-comped lunch, drinks plus much more to be discovered inside Belfast’s ICC.

Rachel Moss will be bringing her career experiences, including working as Head of Marketing Strategy for National Lottery operator Allwyn UK, to Belfast, outlining the path she has taken from a beginner in business to the marketing giant she is today.

Frequently mentoring on the Marketing Leadership Masterclass, Rachel is no stranger to a room of budding marketers and her passion for the sector emanates during her talks.

Speaking on what makes a brand’s outputs successful, Rachel said: “I believe that marketing effectiveness is about more than just measurement, it starts with consumer insight, it’s about telling compelling stories to your stakeholders and about building teams both inside your business and with your agency partners.

“I’m looking forward to sharing what’s worked for me to deliver successful business outcomes.”

Joining Rachel Moss on November 14 is Andi Jarvis, host of Strategy Sessions podcast, a show that does exactly what it says on the tin, frequently interviewing the world’s greatest marketers and providing industry tips to listeners.

Having set up Eximo Marketing back in 2017, Andi is well-versed in aiding companies with their promotion needs, creating strategies, campaigns and training schemes for businesses in Ireland and beyond.

Similar to Andi, Helen Edwards specialises in brand positioning, strategy, engagement, architecture and portfolio planning, as well as consumer insights, and will be providing her insightful takes on all topics at Belfast’s BMMU.

The award-winning columnist and branding consultant is a jack of all trades, previously published her book ‘Creating Passion Brands’ and currently working as both director of Passionbrand and Adjunct Associate Professor of Marketing at London Business School.

This autumn’s event will also see the inclusion of celebrated author Matt Swain.

Despite entering into the career in a different way, having first started in finance, Matt’s swap from corporate to collective media has proved a fruitful decision, enabling him to work with high-flying UK clients, garner over one million social media followers and curate his exclusive marketing community, Social Club.

Talking about what should be valued most in the marketing industry, Matt said: ”We no longer live in an attention economy. We live in a trust economy.

“Everyone has been fighting for clicks but in the process have lost & eroded brand trust.

“Now it’s all about building genuine industry-specific authority, meaningful trust with your target persona.”

Andrew Tindall, Senior Vice President of Global Partnerships at System1 and The Drum columnist joins the list of expert names who will appear at the ICC, Belfast, in less than a month.

Championing data usage alongside emotion and creativity, Andrew’s outlook on marketing is incredibly practical and straight-to-the-point, making his talk one not to be missed for an honest outlook.

Rounding off this year’s programme, Ben Saul-Garner will be bringing raw recounts of his unusual experiences to the Big Marketing Meet Up stage.

Ben has co-founded multiple businesses, including Rebel Book Club and Attachment, ventures which specialise in non-fiction and culture marketing respectively, giving him a broad spectrum of interests and insights, to reflect on.

Speaking on how the wider world is an impactful learning station, Ben said: “I’ve found the best lessons and insights often come from unconventional places that are a far cry from the office.

“I’m looking forward to heading to Belfast and sharing some stories from ten nights alone on a desert island that have had a big impact both personally and professionally.”

To find out more about the programme and to secure your tickets, go to bmmubelfast.com

Mirth and merriment were the orders of the day on the Ulster Hospital’s Paediatric Wards as The Artscare NI Clown Doctors marked 20 years with children, families and staff.

The ‘clown doctors’ are a core troupe of actors, performers, musicians and dancers who have undertaken bespoke ‘clown doctoring’ training and visit sick children in hospital and hospice settings to brighten their day through creative play and fun.

14-year-old Lucie Frame described how much the Clown Doctors had “cheered” her up as she had plans to go away over the weekend. “The Clown Doctors came in and really cheered me up,” said Lucy. “They are really funny and my Dad was even joking around with them and they made me feel better.”

Founding member Paul Taylor, otherwise known to children and young people on the hospital wards as ‘Dr Clooless’ explained how much 20 years bringing joy and laughter meant to him and the team. “I want to say thanks to the Ulster Hospital for allowing us to come and entertain and meet the children these past 20 years. I even have ‘Clown Doctor’ down as my profession on my children’s birth certificates,” Paul laughed. “We work so well with the hospital Play Specialists and the staff here, we are a big team here. We like to think we bring a different atmosphere onto the ward and I know how anxious you can get on a hospital ward, I’ve been here with my own children. As Clown Doctors, we hope that the children and young people can build a relationship with us.”

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt was onhand to congratulate the Clown Doctors on their milestone. “For 20 years the Clown Doctors’ service has been helping children who may be worried or nervous in hospital and they must be praised for the work they have done and continue to do, and the joy they bring, not only to the children, but also the families.

“I know Artscare as a charity is committed to enhancing the lives of individuals in healthcare and community settings through the transformative power of the arts, and its vision is to ensure that everyone across Northern Ireland has the opportunity to experience the positive health and wellbeing benefits that creative engagement brings and in settings such as this that has to be encouraged. The large number of interactions and sessions the Clown Doctors have had last year, and this year is a testament to the excellent work you do and the impacts you have for the children, their families and the staff in the wards.”

Ulster Hospital Healthcare Play Specialist Sharon Pauley described how she and the team were “honoured” to host the momentous birthday celebrations. “We have had the pleasure of having the Clown Doctors on our Paediatric Ward since they started. We were the first Trust to host the Clown Doctors Programme.

“It is a great honour for us to be able to kick off their celebrations here at the Ulster Hospital and it’s great for them to showcase their incredible work to the Health Minister and our Chief Executive Roisin Coulter and Chairman Jonathan Patton.

Sharon continued, “The Clown Doctors have provided an amazing service over the years for the children and they are amazing at engaging the children, young people and parents that are in our care. They promote mental health and well-being and have such a positive impact on people’s mood on the ward. They say that ‘laughter is the best medicine’ and we have seen that in action thanks to the Clown Doctors.”

Barry Macaulay, CEO/Artistic Director Arts Care said, “This year, we proudly celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Arts Care Clown Doctors in Northern Ireland. These highly trained professional performers use the art of clowning to bring joy, comfort, and relief to children and young people who are anxious, vulnerable, or unwell.

“Through playful interactions and imaginative storytelling, our Clown Doctors Dr Muddle, Dr Clooless, Dr Fizz, Dr Dapper, and Dr Twinkle create magical moments in healthcare settings, from hospital bedsides to waiting rooms across all five Trusts.
“Currently, Arts Care are commissioned directly by the Department of Health to deliver these vital services and supported by occasional Trust charitable fund contributions.

“However, with creative health funding due to transfer directly to the Trusts by March 2025, the future of our Clown Doctors’ service is uncertain.
“We are hopeful that the Trusts will recognise the profound impact our Clown Doctors have such as opening doors to imaginative worlds and offering much-needed moments of respite and joy.”

Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland Roisín McDonough, added, “Anyone who has witnessed the extraordinary, uplifting work of the Arts Care Clown Doctors will recognise how effective the arts are at helping sick children and their families and carers cope with the complex range of emotions they may experience during their stay in hospital. In these situations a little happiness goes a very long way.

“The work of these professionally-trained Arts Care performers, supporting the clinical and nursing staff, is one of the most heartening examples I know of, of how the arts can make a very real and meaningful difference to people’s wellbeing and quality of life, in what can otherwise be anxious and stressful situations.”