Belfast Engineering Firm PAC Group Helps Concentrix + Webhelp Towards Net Zero

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Northern Ireland engineering firm, PAC Group, has installed a solar PV system at software company Concentrix + Webhelp Belfast offices that is set to save the company between £30-£35,000 per year.

The sustainable energy solution was installed at their Maysfield site in the city and is an important step in reducing their carbon footprint and working towards net zero.

Brian Alexander, Renewables Business Development Manager at PAC Group said they performed a comprehensive roof evaluation and testing before installing the most suitable units.

“PAC worked with specialists Bauder to create a design for the project and supply a roofing mounting kit and panels along with SolarEdge inverters.”

The Bauder Solar PV System is an integrated photovoltaic system where the modules and the substructure are combined to form a single unit which is secured to the roof without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck.

Working closely with Sr. Supervisor Facilities Management at Concentrix, Michael O’Neill, PAC performed a comprehensive roof evaluation and got the roof spark tested for leaks.

Brian Alexander, Renewables Business Development Manager at PAC Group said: “We went down and built up a very strong relationship with Michael, he showed faith in us and we delivered.

“The ability for Concentrix + Webhelp to produce their own electricity will reduce their carbon footprint greatly, forwarding their efforts to battle global warming in Northern Ireland.”

Peter Corr, Workplace Health & Safety Manager at Concentrix + Webhelp said: “As a global business, we recognise that we have a responsibility to support and improve our local communities and the health of our planet. 

“Choosing to install solar panels at our Maysfield site is just one of our many initiatives to help reduce our carbon footprint and become a more environmentally responsible business.  By installing the solar panels, we estimate a saving of 27.53t of Co2 which is equivalent to 1264 trees planted.”

The 141.220kw system is the most lightweight system available in the market (9-12.5Kg/m2) making it highly suitable for retrofit applications – where weight loadings are often a deciding factor on whether adding PV to an existing building is feasible.

Michael O’Neill, Facilities Manager at Concentrix + Webhelp added: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with PAC on this fantastic project. Their knowledge and expertise has been second to none.”

Big Marketing Meet Up Returns For A Day Of Marketing Inspiration

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Stimulating, fascinating and fun event for marketers

Marketing professionals in Northern Ireland are in for a treat as the highly anticipated Big Marketing Meet Up returns on November 14 at W5 in Titanic Quarter. 

This one-day event promises to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights, interactive sessions, and expert knowledge. 

With a diverse lineup of 15 presenters, 10 key presentations, five bitesize sessions, and a special Lego serious play workshop, the event is set to be a stimulating day of marketing inspiration.

Founder of Big Marketing Meet-Up, Treena Clarke, said the success of this year’s meet-up in May proved there was a demand for an event that provided keynote speakers and serious discussion amongst professionals in a fun environment.

“The feedback from last May’s Big Marketing Meet-Up showed that there was so much enthusiasm for a programme that will deliver what marketers need,” she explained. “Our professional environment is changing so rapidly that it is clear everyone needs to stay up-to-date with the challenges and opportunities they present.”

Treena said that what was also apparent as she moved to prepare for the November programme was that mingling with fellow marketers was an important feature.

“However, we are also going to have some serious fun,” she said. “There will be a Lego Lounge where attendees will get the chance to experience what the iconic brick brand can inspire new levels of creativity.”

Announced as the first three speakers of this impressive lineup, are Peter Craven, Creative Director of Blue Sky Video Marketing, Niraj Kapur, Managing Director of Everybody Works In Sales, and Andi Jarvis, the founder of Eximo Marketing. 

Niraj will delve into the dynamics of introverts and extroverts communicating in marketing, sharing, “I’ll be talking about how relevant that is in business in 2023.

Peter Craven will offer insights into maximising the potential of video content: “We’re gonna be talking about how to make the absolute most out of video content that you produce.”

Andi Jarvis will challenge the notion that marketing is evolving at an unprecedented pace: “I don’t believe marketing is changing all that fast. If I’m honest, I’m not sure it’s changing all that much. A few things are, such as channels and delivery methods, but are the important things changing?”

 

The Big Marketing Meet-Up has been organised to make sure that it is balanced between presenters and the people delivering their programmes day and daily.

“Our presenters will bring national and international experience to bear on the issues of 2024 and beyond,” Treena said. “It is easy to be overwhelmed when technologies and practices seem to be evolving every week, but our speakers and attendees can ensure that this will be an event created by marketing professionals, for marketing professionals.

“It’s time for marketeers to take time out, learn and energise.”

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

Spooktacular Halloween Events at Galgorm Collection

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It may be renowned as the night of the dead, but across Galgorm Collection, things truly come to life with a chilling line up of spooktacular events and dining experiences taking place from 23rd October – 4th November at Galgorm and The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.

 Galgorm

136 Fenaghy Rd, Ballymena BT42 1EA

Halloween at The Barn

(The Barn at Castle Kitchen, Saturday 28th October, 7pm – late)

If you dare to be scared this Halloween, make your way to The Barn at Castle Kitchen on Saturday 28th October for the annual Halloween Event.

Celebrate this spooky season in style, with devilish drinks promotions and live acoustic entertainment from 7pm -10pm, before sweeping the floor with your witch’s broom when the resident DJ takes to the decks from 10pm – late. This Halloween at The Barn, fancy dress is optional, but with x2 £1000 cash prize for The Best Fancy Dress, it would be a horror to miss out.

Tickets not required.

 

For further information or to book, please visit: https://www.galgorm.com/halloween-at-the-barn.html

Moving To Composites Is A Natural Progression In The Fight To Net Zero

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By Gavin Rankin, Technical Director at PAC Group

 

In the fight against climate change, every action we take can have a meaningful impact. There are the obvious things we can do, particularly in the automotive industry such as electric vehicles, sustainable fuels, and so on.

But there are also the somewhat less obvious options. Take lightweighting, for example.

Lightweighting is as the name suggests. It’s the practice of reducing the weight of a component or structure, particularly through the substitution of materials. In switching out traditionally used metals in favour of lighter weight composite materials, such as carbon fibre, there’s a substantial overall reduction in the weight of the structure. 

The benefits of utilising lightweight composites cannot be understated. Certainly, we’re all aware of the way that carbon fibre composites can increase performance. But going beyond performance, aerodynamic efficiency and the like, composite materials enable the transport industry to make a significant reduction in its carbon footprint. 

Whilst the aerospace and automotive industries are certainly making this move towards the utilisation of composite materials, it remains a somewhat gradual process. Though carbon fibre is used in aircraft, the fact of the matter is that the aerospace industry would benefit from expanding its usage of composite materials, especially where its environmental impact is concerned.

It’s no secret that the aviation industry has had a role to play in ushering in the current climate disaster. Its main source of impact has been through the burning of fuel, which then converts to CO2. This means that until synthetic sustainable fuels become more readily available or widely used, the aviation industry is difficult to decarbonise. 

Fuel is the number one cost for any airline, standing at around 30% of all total costs. To give you an idea of numbers, the average short haul flight consumes between two and three litres of fuel every 100 kilometres, per customer. 

Of course, fuel consumption naturally differs from plane to plane, depending on flight duration, the number of passengers, the model of plane and its efficiency and age — and this is exactly where the benefits of lightweighting make themselves apparent. 

Opting for composite materials, rather than metals like steel or aluminium, leads to an overall reduction in the weight of the aircraft. The lighter the aircraft is, the greater its fuel efficiency. Suddenly, a plane becomes both cheaper to operate and more environmentally sound. 

An added benefit of composite materials is that they can actually reduce the individual number of parts in an aircraft. This is due to the fact that composite materials are moulded, enabling multiple parts to be combined in a single mould during the manufacturing process. Not only is this cost effective – fewer parts and manufacturing time culminating in reduced costs – but it means that a greater portion of the aircraft can be built out of lightweight composite materials. 

The more carbon fibre you use, the greater weight you save. The lighter the aircraft, the more efficient it becomes, and greater efficiency leads to greater sustainability. 

As the transport industry catches onto the myriad benefits of lightweight composite materials, there’s an influx in demand for components made of such materials. At PAC, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this push towards an increased usage of composites.

As the leading specialist in the design and manufacture of Hot Drape Forming machines, each of our preformers are manufactured to the highest standards. Every component of the system is produced to an exceptional quality, with reliability and durability at the heart of their design.

We hold 42 patents on the hardware and software used in our preformers, solidifying our position at the forefront of the development of this innovative technology. Our Hot Drape Formers are bespoke, customised to the needs of the client.

Our innovative Hot Drape Formers are able to keep up with the high demands of leading automotive and aerospace manufacturers. We see the growing numbers of manufacturers wanting to incorporate composite materials into their vehicles; even more importantly, we understand exactly why there is this growing desire. PAC recognises the importance of this shift, and the time-sensitive nature of the need to act.

PAC Group strives to increase the efficiency of the manufacturing process through the development of forward-thinking technology. Alongside our preformers are our reticulators and resin transfer/infusions systems, each of which drive efficiency of process. They help to reduce cycle times, enabling greater change on a shorter timescale. 

Our sustainability targets have a timeframe. The aviation and automotive industries are aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. We have just over 25 years to achieve this goal, but we have a mighty journey ahead of us. 

It’s time to embrace new materials, new technologies and new ways of thinking, all of which will bring us nearer to our sustainability goals. At PAC Group we’re delighted to be at the forefront of the aerospace composites industry working with companies such as BAE, Spirit Aerosystems and Airborne to name a few.

For more information go to pacgroup.co.uk 

Time To Really Support NI’s Economically Inactive

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New NIEESS support service will begin this journey

By Shirelle McIvor, Programme Manager of Explore Enterprise Support Service

The term economically inactive has been bandied about by commentators and reporters every time the latest employment figures are announced. In the wake of the pandemic, it has been a topic that has been explored, but it mainly focused on those who have taken early retirement. 

Young people, in particular, have been practically invisible in the discussions. As have those that have a desire to become entrepreneurs or self-employed.

With the Northern Ireland Explore Enterprise Support Service, we aim to not only end that but to offer practical, focused support. It has been designed as a bespoke, tailored service.

The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency 2022 Labour Market Report says that the ‘economically non-responsive’ made up 28.3% of the 16-64 year-old population. That means more than a quarter of the eligible working population. That is a huge part of the population not working or looking for work.

The Explore Enterprise Support Service is not just a response to this. It is recognising the issue. It is about recognising that behind every statistic, every number bandied about in numerous column inches, there is an individual. An individual that has some vision of their future.

Between now and March 31st 2025 support for those individuals will amount to 1,200 people receiving the right package of mentoring and advice.

Similar programmes have been undertaken before, and there is evidence that they work. However, when European funding ended we needed a new way to move forward.

This project has received £1.8m from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is set to target around 1,200 individuals aged 16 and above.

The service, delivered by the 27 Local Enterprise Agencies and the Prince’s Trust, will improve enterprise, interpersonal, and employability skills of those taking part, helping them improve their marketability as a candidate and ultimately become self-employed or find a job.

However, in terms of the target market, it is economically inactive individuals we all know that is going to be a difficult market. It will be challenging to get the word out to those people who fall into that category, but they are the most in need of the services that we provide.

When any of those individuals come to either the Prince’s Trust and speak to the volunteers there or business advisors or see the local enterprise agencies, the first thing that we want to do is to complete a specialist needs assessment on them to find out where they are, where they want to be and most importantly find out what barriers that they have that are stopping them from getting where they want to be. In a lot of cases, the perceived barriers there might not actually be a barrier in their case.

That is why we are not pursuing a one-size fits all approach. Each participant will have a tailored development plan, with actions that we will complete with the individual.

Northern Ireland has a long history of entrepreneurship and creativity. Even today the UK list of leading entrepreneurs is populated by many from Northern Ireland.

We are not aiming at propelling 1,200 people onto those listings – although that would be an added bonus. What we are aiming to do is equip 1,200 people with the skills and confidence to develop their own business idea, and hopefully a path to self-employment.

We will take each business idea and examine it with the individual. Have they got the skills and knowledge to take it forward? If not we can work with them through issues that may have put them off. Financial, legal and marketing are just some of the words that can frighten people. We aim to demystify these processes and assess what is right for that person.

Of course, that business idea may change during the assessment. Equally many will go through the process and decide that they want to return to the job market. 

To help in looking for employment we can look at their CV, develop action plans for them going forward in terms of their employment, look at what a job may be and what they’re good at. We recognise that for many people low confidence is what’s preventing them from ever getting a job so we want to tackle that. 

With the 1,200 people, we aim to provide wrap-around support, and we do not aim to shoehorn them into a path that does not suit them.

We’re very excited about the new service and how it puts the citizen at the centre of a range of supports connecting them with the right support at the right time.

In doing so, we feel our partnership with Prince’s Trust NI will ensure people throughout Northern Ireland experiencing the barriers of economic inactivity will have the opportunity to make personal and positive strides in their lives.

By encouraging out-of-work individuals to develop themselves both personally and professionally, the aim of the service ultimately is to boost the economy by helping participants become economically active.

NIEESS is aimed at individuals who have been out of employment for a minimum of four weeks and those who are currently unable to start a new position due to everything from a lack of transferable skills to an inability to engage with the job market due to personal circumstances.

The service delivery partners will identify mentors and trainers who will be on-hand for the service users to offer a participant centric approach meaning everyone who signs up will be given a tailored package of support which will provide holistic support targeted to their individual needs and areas where people require the most assistance.

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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The Merchant Hotel, Belfast, County Antrim

Embrace a bit of luxury this autumn and enjoy an overnight stay with a bottle of prosecco in your room on arrival! Located in the heart of the buzzing Cathedral Quarter there’s plenty of culture on offer with The Belfast International Arts Festival in full swing. That’s if you can tear yourself away from the opulence of your surroundings. B&B From £239 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.themerchanthotel.com/  for more information.

Brooke-Lodge Guesthouse, Magherafelt, County Londonderry

This lovely four-star guest house in the charming Mid Ulster town, is the perfect spot to explore the nearby charms of Antrim Castle Gardens, the Seamus Heaney Homeplace or the splendid Sperrins. The newly renovated bedrooms come fully equipped with tea and coffee making facilities. B&B starts from £85 per room per night based on two people sharing. From £160 based on two people sharing including a £30 dinner voucher. Visit https://brooke-lodge.co.uk/  for more information.

The Valley Hotel, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone

This small, contemporary family run hotel is the gateway to the famous Fermanagh Lakelands, a perfect base to explore many of the tourist attractions such as Cuilcagh, The Stairway to Heaven, Marble Arch Caves, Belleek Pottery, and the award-winning Ulster American Folk Park. You can also embrace the outdoors with golfing, fishing, cycling and pony trekking, all available locally. £160 B&B based on two people sharing, includes a £30 dinner voucher. Visit https://thevalleyhotel.com for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 23-29 October

  1. Derry Halloween Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry 28-29 October. Be part of Europe’s largest Halloween Festival. The Walled city welcomes the spirits for this four-day spectacular like no other. Arguably the official home of Halloween, there are ghastly offerings galore for big and small! The little horrors can be spellbound with stories in the Witch’s Lair and a junior disco, there really is fantastic fun for everyone.
  1. Hallowe’een Ghost Tour of Armagh, Armagh, County Armagh, 27-29 October. This one-hour walking trail will be a mix of gruesome tales from bygones days with a few up-to-date surprises! This tour is suitable for 13+ years of age but those up to age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
  2. Electric Escape, Belcoo, County Fermanagh, throughout October. Saddle-up at Corralea Adventure Centre and get off the beaten track on a top your top-of-the range electric mountain bike. This guided exploration of the unspoilt wilderness of West Fermanagh will include crossing old bog roads and forest tracks, discovering hidden megalithic tombs as you go. Stop for some traditional boxty before the trip home. Check website for availability.
  3. Legends from Lecale’s Spectacular Coast, Ardglass, County Down, 28 October. Explore this landscape rich in folklore and its connections with Saint Patrick in a guided cliff top walk. Listen to tales of Vikings, shipwrecks, and smuggling. Visit a holy well and enjoy a homemade picnic lunch from Margaret’s Cottage. Check website for availability.
  4. Castlederg Apple Fair, Castlederg, County Tyrone, 27 October. This event has been running on the last Friday of October in County Tyrone’s town for the past 100 years. Traditional apple sellers will be in town from early morning along with a range of stalls full of scrumptious Halloween delights. A nice day out for all the family!
  1. Ballyburren Halloween Spook & Pumpkin Pick Event, Ballynahinch, County Down, 28-29 October. Prepare to be mesmerised by a journey through this sinister woodland trail, cloaked in the darkness of the night. But beware! Amidst the eerie mist and haunting shadows, there’ll be surprises! Delve into the art of potion making, unleash your inner sorcerer as you craft your very own magical wand. Then it’s time to find your perfect pumpkin, as goblins and ghosts will play their tricks, trying to distract you from your mission.
  1. Death, Tragedy & Betrayal: The Darker Side of Clifton Street Cemetery, Belfast, County Antrim, 28-29 October. Opened in 1797 Death, Tragedy & Betrayal focuses on the ‘darker side’ of the cemetery’s history. Hear all about everything from the infamous body snatchers which plagued the cemetery in its opening decades and the drastic actions taken to curb this lucrative trade, to the burial of murder victims, hangings, and other tragic deaths!
  2. Harvest Festival of Colour, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 28-29 October. Come along to the historic Florence Court Estate and be part of this fun filled festival of food and folklore. There’ll be traditional crafts, storytelling sessions, cooking demonstrations and a new Food Fair. Enjoy live music from the Fermanagh Concert Band and local traditional group, Blue Orchard.
  3. All Hallows’ Eve at Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down, 28 October. There is a spook-tacular array of treats on offer for the whole family. Add an extra touch of magic to your All Hallows Eve experience with a horse and carriage ride along the mystical shore. Head into the theatre for a creative session of Halloween crafts and dress up, where you can fashion your own witch’s wand. For an extra dose of Halloween wonder, make your way to Hawks NI, where an enthralling live hawk handling demonstration awaits, adding a feathered flair to this unforgettable day of ancient Irish mythology and festive family fun.
  4. Stargazing Evening, Armagh, County Armagh, 27 October. Come join a team of experts who will help you navigate the night sky using the Planetarium’s telescopes (weather depending) along with a dome show in the digital theatre and an astronomer talk running from 6pm – 9pm.

 

Booking is essential for most activities. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

 

A GENIE-US OF A PANTOMIME AT ARMAGH’S MARKET PLACE THEATRE

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Your wish is our command this Christmas at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre, as we whisk you away on a high-flying adventure with the magical and breath-taking pantomime, ‘Aladdin’.

Join a fabulous cast of madcap characters for a thrilling carpet ride with plenty of twists and turns, cheers and boos in a tale of love against the odds. Will the evil Abanazar destroy Aladdin’s dreams to get rich and marry Princess Jasmine? Or will the Genie of the Lamp grant Aladdin three wishes and save the day? And will Widow Twanky ever find a man? Find out on this globe-trotting, action-packed escapade for the whole family.

Jam-packed with dazzling costumes, stunning sets, mischievous fun and thrilling musical numbers all wrapped up in an adventure unlike any you will have ever witnessed before… oh, yes it is!!

‘Aladdin’ promises an unforgettably festive experience coupled with The Market Place Theatre’s renowned reputation for high quality, professional pantomimes that are up there with the best.

‘Aladdin’ will run from Saturday 2 to Sunday 24 December, with a range of times to suit all busy schedules! Prices range from £14 to £18.50. Tickets are flying out the door, so hurry to book yours now!

To book your tickets for the most exciting pantomime of the season, phone the Box Office now on 03300 561 025, or book online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre.. The house is sure to be packed to the rafters for this festive hit! There will be BSL signed, captioned and relaxed performances during the run. Please contact the Box Office for full details.

To keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

Healthy Mind Coach Warns Managing Mental Health & Wellbeing Must Be A Priority When Dealing With Workplace Stress

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Stress at work is a common issue, but it doesn’t mean that you just have to shove it under the carpet. Stress can make us feel tired, tense, and overwhelmed, stimulating physical and negative emotional reactions that can change our normal behaviour, such as making us snappy or intolerant. 

According to Sam Barr of Healthy Mind Coaching and Training stress triggers our ‘fight, flight, or freeze’ (stress response), but our bodies are not designed to maintain any of these states for long. 

“Stress therefore increases the risk of damaging our long-term health, from issues which can be relatively benign like getting more colds or flus, to more serious immune system compromises and issues such as IBS, heart disease or metabolic syndrome.

Unfortunately, finding a low-stress job is difficult if not going on impossible, so a more realistic approach is to adopt coping strategies to reduce your stress levels and take proactive measures to reduce the risk of incurring stress.”

Sam’s company Healthy Mind Coaching and Training offers a range of services for individuals and workplaces, but often the free 20-minute one-to-one introduction consultation is when the issues affecting individuals can be identified and assessed to see whether further sessions are required and that we are the right help and match for that individual or workplace.

He explained: “The reality is when people are experiencing severe and/or debilitating workplace stress they more often than not don’t consider the importance of looking after their own, their colleagues’ or staff’s wellbeing and mental health.

“Most people can handle certain amounts of stress, but when that stress begins to impact their health that’s when they need to step back and do something about it.

“Whether it’s someone who is a Director, senior manager or an individual who is facing a life-changing decision often we can help identify issues and suggest changes in thoughts, feelings or behaviours,” Sam said. 

Sam warned that often delaying seeking help can become a barrier for people – and organisations for their staff.

“Most people do know that they have an issue with their mental health and wellbeing, they just delay taking action” he explained.”

“Too often they come up with excuses, such as they don’t have the time or resources. They do have or find the time to get their car fixed or their boiler repaired when they are broken, and I would encourage them to change their mindset from ‘I can’t find the time’ to ‘I have to do it’. 

“By asking themselves ‘What if I don’t get help, where will this end?’ they would be more likely not to make excuses or procrastinate and just go get the help they need and we can provide that help for them.”

Healthy Mind Coaching and Training is a provider of Mental & emotional wellbeing, Positive Psychology-Mindset coaching & CBT, Professional training workshops and courses in personal, professional development and Workplace mental wellbeing.

“There are so many labels around mental wellbeing but we focus on enabling people to find themselves, grow, flourish, excel and realise their potentials, empowering themselves and achieving positive results in their lives, through a positive change mindset,” said Sam. 

“The key thing is to take the first step. No matter what your reasons are, or whatever has prompted you to get help, you can change your situation.”

Here are Sam’s top tips for managing workplace stress and what you should do to alleviate the impact on your wellbeing and mental health:

  1. Create a pre-work ritual

Having a disorganised morning which can include getting kids ready for school, dealing with rush hour traffic, or skipping breakfast, can make you arrive at work with your stress levels already high. 

When you start your day with planning and good nutrition, you may find that you are better able to cope with work-related stresses. 

  1. Talk to your manager about your workload

Discuss your workload with your manager, if you have one. Try setting realistic targets and talk about how you can solve the issues you’re having.

  1. Be realistic

You don’t have to be perfect all the time. You might find that you’re being more critical of your own work than you need to be. Work within your limitations and try to be kind to yourself.

  1. Try to develop good relationships with your colleagues

Connecting with people you work with can help build up a network of support. Having connections with co-workers can also make work feel more enjoyable.

  1. Try to balance your time and avoid multitasking

You might be doing too much at once, so choose ‘chunking’ (one task at a time) over multitasking. Multitasking can make the quality of your work suffer, make activities take longer, and leave you feeling exhausted from splitting your focus or spinning to many plates. 

  1. Reward yourself for achievements

Only focusing on the work you need to do next rather than the work you have completed can lead to you overlooking your accomplishments and even make you run the risk of developing imposter syndrome. Rather, reward yourself for your completed tasks, like taking a reading break, chatting with co-workers, or spending time outside.

  1. Develop end-of-day habits

Finish your working day by tidying your workspace or making a to-do list for tomorrow. This can help you switch off from work, especially if you’re working from home.

  1. Take some time off

Make use of some of the holidays you’re entitled to: a few days off, a long weekend, or a week abroad can help you feel refreshed and gain some perspective and distance from your work, which can even increase your productivity in the long run.

  1. Focus on your life outside work. 

Nurture relationships with people you don’t work with. Develop interests and skills that you don’t use in your job. This can help you see the difference between your personal life and your working life. Watch out for good work-life balance.

  1. Seek out support internally and externally

Find out if there is any support within your organisation – some workplaces have employee assistance programmes (EAPs) which offer free advice and counselling, while others have mentoring or buddy systems.

You should hopefully feel that you are able to tell someone in the workplace that you feel unsupported, whether that be a manager or someone in the human resources department.

Another route you should definitely consider is seeking out support outside of the workplace through mental & emotional wellbeing coaching or therapy. 

At Healthy Mind Coaching Sam can provide individuals or organisations with effective methods for managing negative emotions stemming from workplace stress, imposter syndrome or any other stressors, fears or worries. 

He said: “We offer one-to-one sessions designed to enable you to live a more positive lifestyle by providing strategies designed to challenge and overcome negative thoughts, unhelpful feelings and behaviours. 

“All prospective clients are offered a free 20 minute consultation to see how we can work with you to achieve your goals, objectives, ambitions and aspirations or help you to resolve some unresolved issues.”

Learn more about Healthy Mind Coaching and Training by calling Sam today on 07906 869616 or go to healthymindcoaching.co.uk 

 

12 Events Happening During This Year’s One World Festival

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One World Festival is back for 2023. The festival which showcases how climate change affects people worldwide, especially in less wealthy areas and to make more people aware of the challenges faced by the poorest communities, returns from the 16th – 20th of October.

With a focus on Health of Our World, this year’s programme is rich with events in film, music, poetry, discussions and workshops. 

In light of how our global population has changed geographically in recent years due to conflict, famine, and climate change, it is now more important than ever to explore the issues and impacts, while also providing opportunities to create change.

Here are 12 Events happening during this year’s One World Festival that you shouldn’t miss:

Tuesday 17th October

  1. Our Circular World

Banana Block, Portview Trade Centre, Newtownards Road, Belfast, from 11.00am – 12.00pm

In a world where sustainability is a key theme in our everyday lives, Habitat for Humanity Ireland believe that working towards a circular economy is critical to creating a more sustainable world.

This event brings together a panel of stakeholders from across the sustainability sector in Northern Ireland for a candid conversation about the importance of investing in a circular economy for the future of our world. 

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/our-circular-world/ 

  1. A Delegate’s View of the One Young World Summit

Oakgrove Integrated College, Derry-Londonderry at 11.00am – 12.15pm

In this talk, Queen’s University student Emer Rafferty will highlight her experience as one of more than 2,000 delegates at the One Young World Summit held in Belfast when subjects such as the climate and ecological crisis will be discussed. 

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/a-delegates-view-of-the-one-young-world-summit/ 

  1. Leprosy? A thing of the past, or a 21st century injustice? 

Online from 12.00pm – 12.20pm

This virtual event will shine a spotlight on leprosy – a severely stigmatising ‘neglected tropical disease’ that still exists and devastates the lives, health, and wellbeing of some of the world’s most marginalised people, living in abject poverty.

Together, we will explore the solution and what part we can play in the journey to see a ‘world free of leprosy’ within our lifetime. Join us to ‘amplify the voice’ and ‘hear the stories’ of people affected by leprosy – who are often shunned, overlooked, and forgotten. Together, we will consider the disproportionate effects of climate change they face. Join us to hear stories of change and hope for the future.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/leprosy-a-thing-of-the-past-or-a-21st-century-injustice/ 

  1. Informal Settlements and LEDC Urban Challenges

QUB Lecture Theatre 0G.029, Geography Building Elmwood Ave., Belfast & online @ Zoom from 7.30pm – 9.00pm

Informal Settlements in LEDC cities are home to over one billion people who lack access to adequate housing. Housing conditions in these settlements impact the economic, health and education systems for wider society. They have implications for climate justice, political inclusion and gender equality. Equitable access to adequate housing lies at the heart of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

This talk will draw upon the experience and expertise of Habitat for Humanity (HFH) International in community-led development within informal settlements. It will explore the issues and challenges associated with the growth of informal settlements in LEDC cities. 

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/informal-settlements-and-ledc-urban-challenges/ 

Wednesday 18th October

  1. Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon

Online from 10.00am – 11.00am

This event will share a new research report from the Centre for Global Education which assesses the impact of Lebanon’s four-year economic crisis on the socio-economic status of Palestinians. The report is based on field visits carried out in May, September and November 2022 to nine Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, which included consultations with UN staff and visits to camp installations, notably schools and health clinics.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/palestinian-refugees-in-lebanon/ 

  1. RePurpose at ReStore

Habitat ReStore, Young Street, Lisburn from 7.00pm-9.00pm

Join Habitat Ireland for an interactive workshop at ReStore Lisburn, where we will explore how recycling, reusing and repurposing help build a more sustainable world. You will get stuck in to repurposing and take your handiwork home.

RePurposing is great fun, promotes creativity and protects the planet. This event links directly with SDG12 and is one way we can act for a just, peaceful and sustainable world.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/repurpose-at-restore-2023/ 

  1. The Letter

A Message for Our Earth – Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart from 7.00pm – 9.00pm

Join us for a screening of The Letter – A Message for Our Earth which tells the emotive story of several leaders from across the world and across a range of communities, committed to ecological and social causes who travel to discuss the encyclical letter to the world by Pope Francis.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/the-letter-a-message-for-our-earth/ 

  1. Forced to Flee

Law Centre NI, 2-4 Queen Street, Belfast from 7.00pm – 9.00pm

The climate crisis is forcing people to flee their homes. Extreme weather events and environmental degradation can trigger refugee displacement. The impacts of climate change can exacerbate existing tensions and adds to the potential for conflict. When people flee and cross borders they may be in need of international protection such as refugee status.

Delivered by Law Centre NI, come and join this information session to learn about refugee protection in Northern Ireland.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/forced-to-flee/ 

Thursday 19th October

  1. RePurpose at ReStore

Habitat ReStore, Young Street, Lisburn from 10.00am-12.00pm

Join Habitat Ireland for an interactive workshop at ReStore Lisburn, where we will explore how recycling, reusing and repurposing help build a more sustainable world. You will get stuck in to repurposing and take your handiwork home.

RePurposing is great fun, promotes creativity and protects the planet. This event links directly with SDG12 and is one way we can act for a just, peaceful and sustainable world.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/repurpose-at-restore-2023/ 

  1. Nitin Sawhney’s “Identity” album: immersive listening event

Sonic Arts Lab at Queen’s University Belfast from 7.00pm – 8.30pm

We live in a fast world where music is more accessible than ever, can be digested bite size, and videos have become a vital part of the music industry marketing package.

Rarely do people get mindfulness time to sit amongst friends and strangers together, and listen to an entire album uninterrupted without any visuals. We invite you to this shared immersive listening experience of a very significant new album from Nitin Sawhney “Identity”.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/nitin-sawhneys-identity-album-immersive-listening-event/ 

  1. Talking Climate Justice

Ballywillan Presbyterian Church, 131 Atlantic Rd., Portrush, from 8.00pm – 9.00pm

This event is an opportunity to gather with others to learn and share ideas of how we can best respond to the climate crisis both individually and as a society. We will hear the latest on the global discussions due to happen next month in Dubai at the UN climate conference and what we should be calling on our political representatives to do.

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/talking-climate-justice/ 

Friday 20th October 

  1. Health of Our World

Accidental Theatre, Shaftesbury Square, Belfast from 7.00pm – 8.30pm

Health of Our World is a culmination of the festival week bringing together artists and artistic pieces with a focus on how climate change impacts people around the world. 

Kate McNicholl MLA, chair of All Party Group on Climate Action, will be sharing her experiences and her work. We will have music from Polar Bolero and Beyond Skin, who will share music and dance from the MARRS (Musicians Artists at Risk Resettlement Scheme). Winners of the Creative Competition will also be announced. 

In everything, One World Festival seeks to work together across all our partner agencies for a just, peaceful and sustainable world. A night not to be missed. 

For tickets, go to https://oneworldfestivalni.com/events/health-of-our-world/ 

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