From Care Home To The Boardroom: Harry Robinson’s Journey With Boardroom Apprentice

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By Zahra Baz

Childhood experience of being in the care system has played an important role in the career path for Harry Robinson, giving him a strong desire to give back to his local community.

Currently employed as Head of School at Belfast Metropolitan College, Harry has spent 20 years working in further education helping to provide opportunities for those facing barriers to education.

A passionate advocate for education and lifelong learning, last year the Belfast native took another important step on his own journey from the care home to the boardroom by applying for the Boardroom Apprentice programme. 

It is Harry’s hope that in sharing his own experience he may encourage others who have had similar challenges to do the same.

He explained: “Before applying, I had spoken to a few colleagues that had taken part in previous years and they were very enthusiastic about their experience of Boardroom Apprentice, which got me interested in finding out more.

“When I saw what was involved in the programme, I knew that I wanted to apply for both professional and personal reasons. Professionally, I knew that the experience gained from Boardroom Apprentice would help me to develop skills and confidence. Personally, I’ve always wanted to be able to contribute to Northern Ireland’s society in areas that are important to me.

“I could tell board work was the way forward and the best way for me to achieve this, but I was conscious that while I have relevant work based experience, I didn’t have any direct experience at board level.”

Created in 2017 by Eileen Mullan, the Boardroom Apprentice offers a unique opportunity spanning over the course of a year. The programme provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals interested in serving on public or third sector boards to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills.

By blending board training, personal growth, and practical placements, participants are offered an exciting and transformative journey, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to thrive on a board.

During his Boardroom Apprentice experience, the 51-year-old was placed with the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, based in central Belfast; a non-departmental public body that works to promote and enforce equality laws in Northern Ireland.

“When applying for Boardroom Apprentice you get the opportunity to list three potential boards that you’re interested in. I was particularly keen to be matched with the Equality Commission and was absolutely delighted to be placed there.”

Despite knowing that he wanted to be with the Equality Commission board, Harry reiterated the importance of having your ‘why’ as he found it to fuel his drive and commitment throughout the programme.

He explained: “It’s really important to understand why you want to take part in Boardroom Apprentice and to understand that it will involve hard work and dedication. 

“It’s really important to pick a host board that sits well with your own interests and values.”

After reflecting on his Boardroom Apprentice experience over the last year, Harry felt that working alongside like minded individuals on the Equality Commission board was invaluable to his personal and professional development.

“I have learnt an enormous amount about being part of an effective boardroom from being placed with the Equality Commission” he said.

“During the past year as a Boardroom Apprentice I have been given the opportunity to attend board and committee meetings, seeing first hand what it really meant to be within the boardroom environment. I’ve also been able to attend events and work as a partner to support the work of the Equality Commission.

“There has been so much that I’ve been able to take away from my time in the boardroom, however the biggest lesson I’ve learnt from this is to be supportive but to not shy away from asking the difficult questions.

“It’s been an incredible experience.”

Acknowledging the significance of equipping aspiring board members with the necessary tools, the Boardroom Apprentice places great value on delivering formal training and support. With a strong emphasis on upskilling, the programme recognises that continuous learning is key to personal and professional growth. 

As part of the programme, each participant is required to actively engage in a series of structured learning days meticulously designed to enhance skills and broaden knowledge; empowering individuals to excel and flourish in their board service aspirations.

“Honestly, the knowledge and experiences that I have gained from the learning days alongside being a member of a host board exceeded my expectations, and helped me to develop skills that I’m now able to use in my current leadership role.

“There are a lot of personal skills that are related to becoming an effective board member that you get the opportunity to practise in a safe environment. 

“The peer-to-peer learning is an important aspect of the programme and I learnt a great deal from those around me.”

As the programme unfolded, Harry often found himself surprised by unexpected learnings.

“The biggest surprise for me was what I gained from being part of a Boardroom Apprentice team overall. I’ve met some fantastic people who have been hugely supportive of one another throughout the programme.

“It’s been a great opportunity to meet incredible people and engage with so many like minded individuals.

“Although, there is a lot more to being a board member than I had previously thought. I’ve really been struck by the passion and dedication of those that give their time to service on boards, and to support the work of Eileen and the other Boardroom Apprentice participants.

For those considering applying to this year’s Boardroom Apprentice, Harry offers some words of encouragement and support: “It’s easy to think of a boardroom and think that you don’t belong there, but this programme is about challenging that and breaking down barriers.

“I urge everyone to simply go for it – we all suffer from a degree of imposter syndrome but don’t let that stand in your way.

“Taking part in Boardroom Apprentice has been the most engaging and rewarding programme that I’ve had the pleasure to take part in. Not only has it greatly improved my understanding of the boardroom and what it takes to be an effective board member, but I’m much more likely to voice my opinion or to ask a challenging question than I was before and being able to see that growth within myself is invaluable.”

Applications for the 2023/2024 Boardroom Apprentice programme open on Monday June 5 and close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Boardroom Apprentice Paving The Way For Change

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95% Agree Programme Has Improved Diversity Across Boards

The 2023 applications now open for this year’s Boardroom Apprentice, marking the programme’s seventh year of enabling individuals from all backgrounds, abilities and ages the opportunity to learn and gain experience.

Having already helped 277 people turn their dream of sitting on a board into a reality, there is no time like the present to get involved and see your future be altered with the help of the scheme.

The 12 month-long scheme allows participants to immerse themselves in the world of boardrooms and decision making, all while gaining invaluable skills that translate to both their personal and professional lives.

Eileen Mullan, Boardroom Apprentice founder, said: “Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift. You get the programme as a gift with the expectation that you give it back. 

“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”

Boards from throughout Northern Ireland have taken part in the scheme since it first began in 2017, including the likes of Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Northern Ireland Office, Department For The Economy and many more. 

A recent impact study by independent consultant Dr Tony Macaulay found 100% of all 59 participating host boards from the 2021 programme were satisfied or very satisfied with their Boardroom Apprentice(s).

Similarly, 92% rated the overall credibility of the programme as high or very high, with 98% saying they were likely or very likely to recommend the Boardroom Apprentice Programme to other Boards.

The primary aim of Boardroom Apprentice is to enable diversity and inclusion in our boardrooms. Encouraging everyone, regardless of their background, past career or experience, to get involved.

The impact study identified that 92% of host boards agreed or strongly agreed that the programme is delivering on its vision of bridging the gap between aspiration and reality for aspiring Board Members.

Previous Boardroom Apprentice Alex Deonarine explained that the opportunity was one in which she could not only achieve her own goals of sitting on a board, but inspire others who feel underrepresented in the industry to get involved too.

She said: “If you’ve never seen anyone “like you” on a board before, be the first one. You will never regret it – you will only treasure each and every experience on this journey.”

Duane Farrell, CEO of Relate NI, one of the host boards involved in Boardroom Apprentice, believes the scheme is a great first step for individuals aiming for a career in the public or third sector.

He said: “The programme itself is an amazing opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed to step into these important governance roles.”

Boardroom Apprentice also prides itself on running a spectacular support system for those taking part in the programme, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and comfortable in their new role.

Upon being assigned a host board, apprentices are paired with a Board Buddy who aids with their progression throughout the twelve-month experience, as well as being allocated learning days and further assistance.

Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland CEO, Brenda McMullan explained that the wealth of support comes from a variety of different sources during the year-long programme.

She said: “Your host board, your boardroom buddy, Eileen Mullan and all the wonderful guest speakers are ready to give you their all.”

Anyone interested in applying for Boardroom Apprentice can do so now, with applications closing at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

ForM Sculpture Exhibition Returns to Bangor Castle Walled Garden

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The popular ForM Sculpture Exhibition has returned to Bangor Castle Walled Garden for the whole month of June. This awe-inspiring showcase will delight art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike as visitors experience this unique fusion of art and nature.

This is the twelfth annual ForM Sculpture Exhibition, and it is a fantastic opportunity for artists to create pieces as a response to the garden.

Brendan Jamson’s artwork ‘Full Circle’ part of the ForM Sculpture Exhibition, Bangor Castle Walled Garden, June 2023.

Visitors are invited to wander through the beautiful setting and immerse themselves in a stunning display of artistic talent. With over 30 sculptures thoughtfully positioned within the garden, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the relationship between art and nature and promises to stimulate the senses and ignite the imagination.

ForM was officially opened by The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas on Thursday 1 June. At the launch event, the winners of the 2023 ForM Competition were announced and presented with prizes. The competition was judged by a panel of experts. The winners are: 1st Place – Brendan Jamison, 2nd Place – Alison Hanvey, 3rd Place – Sandra Robinson. Kate O’Neill and Rosalind Lowry were both Highly Commended.

Speaking about ForM, The Mayor said: “I am delighted to welcome ForM Sculpture Exhibition back to Bangor Castle’s Walled Garden. The artworks this year are just stunning, well done to all of the artists involved and to the Competition winners. The exhibition will enhance any visit to the garden, and I am sure visitors will thoroughly enjoy it.”

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton said; “ForM Sculpture Exhibition provides the opportunity for artists to challenge themselves to create work for a unique environment and be inspired by the stunning setting of Bangor Castle Walled Garden. The exhibition, creates an excellent opportunity for our local artists, some of whom are at the start of their artistic careers, to exhibit alongside established artists.”

ForM will remain open until 30 June and admission is free. Some of the sculptures are for sale and maps are available at each of the garden’s entrances to guide visitors around the exhibition.

Bangor Castle Walled Garden is open from 10am – 8pm Monday to Thursday, and 10am – 6pm Friday to Sunday.

For more information, visit: www.andculture.org.uk

Get Hosed Down: National Car Wash Set To Take Place This Weekend For The Fire Fighters Charity

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Make a splash at your local fire station!

Washing the car is far from anybody’s favourite job, so take the hassle out of it and head down to your local fire station for the National Car Wash.

On Saturday, June 10, trainee firefighters from NIFRS will be on hand to make your car sparkle, with all donations received contributing towards The Fire Fighters Charity, a non-profit who provide support and rehabilitation to the fire and rescue community.

Hosted across the United Kingdom, Northern Irish locals can take their car to the NIFRS Learning & Development Centre, Boucher Crescent in the heart of Belfast to be washed, benefitting from the cleanliness of your vehicle and being for a great cause.

Firefighting is a life-threatening career that can often be dangerous, stressful and traumatic, sometimes leaving injured firefighters unable to work for months.

Dealing with life or death situations every day also takes its toll emotionally too, with a recent rise in mental health problems amongst the front-line force leading to increased attention in helping workers recuperate after a hard day’s work.

The Fire Fighters Charity has been supporting the fire services community for 75 years, starting by supporting bereaved families of firefighters killed during the Blitz before evolving into a modern-day service that provides life enhancing health and wellbeing support to the whole fire community.

The Fire Fighters Charity is here for every one of the UK’s both serving and retired members of fire and rescue staff as well as their families, a tailored package that no other organisation can provide.

Firmly established on the fire and rescue service calendar, the National Car Wash is the Charity’s largest national fundraising event of the year. 

As well as being a fun and popular fundraising event for the kids who get to check out the array of equipment, the Car Wash also gives firefighters the unique opportunity to share vital community safety advice with a large cross-section of their community. 

Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity, Dr Jill Tolfrey, said: “The National Car Wash provides a vital source of income for the Charity, as well as being a fun and popular event. 

“It costs £8.5million a year to keep The Fire Fighters Charity running – and with no regular government funding, we rely completely on your donations and goodwill. 

“You can show your support to our firefighting heroes by visiting your local fire station on Saturday 10 June – and afterwards drive away safely, in a clean car!”

Chief Fire Officer said: “Monies raised through national fundraising initiatives provide a real boost to The Fire Fighters Charity. 

“We are delighted that so many of our fire stations are getting involved and would urge local people to come along and support the day. 

“Your valued donations will go towards helping thousands of men, women and children from the fire and rescue community during their times of need.”   

Applications For Boardroom Apprentice 2023 Are Open

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Applications for this year’s Boardroom Apprentice programme are now open and available on the official Boardroom Apprentice website.

Open to those aged 16 or over from all backgrounds and all abilities, this unique board learning and development programme is looking for a diverse range of Boardroom Apprentices to take a seat at one of the host boards and attend a suite of expertly led learning days throughout the year.

Founded by Eileen Mullan in 2017, the programme is now in its sixth year and has helped 277 individuals across Northern Ireland make their aspiration of sitting on a board a reality whilst helping to diversify boardrooms in the public and third sector.

Eileen Mullan, Boardroom Apprentice founder, said: “I decided to create a programme that brings together three key elements – knowledge and understanding, experience and support. Over a twelve-month window Boardroom Apprentices will get practical board experience, a suite of learning days and support to fully equip them to serve on a board in the public or third sector.

“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift. You get the programme as a gift with the expectation that you give it back. Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”

Speaking of her experience, Boardroom Apprentice Alex Deonarine who was placed with the Department of Health said: “Being a young, mixed race girl, I initially felt as if there was no room for me at the boardroom table. 

“I didn’t understand my potential and often questioned ‘what’s the point?’ or ‘what do I have to bring?’.

“What I learned was that anyone and everyone can serve on a board, it just takes confidence and believing in yourself. 

“If you’ve never seen anyone “like you” on a board before, be the first one. You will never regret it – you will only treasure each and every experience on this journey.”

2022 Boardroom Apprentice, Craig Service, who was placed with the NI Police Fund said that the programme was a “humbling” experience.

He added: “Before I joined the programme, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it would be daunting and I suppose I doubted my capabilities to be involved in such a programme.

“I met and worked with wonderful people all of whom have their own views, opinions and experiences that I could learn from.

“Being on a board is one of the most humbling and authentic experiences I have ever had. I would highly recommend the programme to anyone.”

Boardroom Apprentice Gillian Orr, who was placed with Nexus, said her time on the course last year provided her with an opportunity to develop her soft skills: “Through the project work I developed greater interpersonal skills which were really helpful and mirrored the experience of being a new board member. 

“I also learned skills across different areas that I wouldn’t typically have insight to, such as finance analysis and governance, all of which were accessible at all levels and applicable in my host board setting.”

Boardroom Apprentice Clodagh Palmer, who was placed with Southern Regional College said the experience helped her in her personal development journey.

“Boardroom Apprentice enables people from different backgrounds to have an opportunity to be on a board” she said. 

“I wanted to be on a board for my personal development and to be able to give back to the community in which I live.

“Before applying I had no idea, to be honest, of what to expect and I thought it wouldn’t be as interesting as it was. I was wrong, as I soon found out the programme was far better than I ever expected.

“I learned so much about how boards work, the intricacies and about what I can bring to the board.

This year’s programme will run from September 1, 2023 – until August 31, 2024. Applications close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Strabane gets set for Summer Jamm celebrations

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It’s all happening in Strabane next month as the final plans are put in place for the latest celebration of the sensational Strabane Summer Jamm outdoor festival.

This year’s event takes place on June 17th with a fantastic line up of entertainment for all ages, from live music and arts and crafts to cute critters and BMX biking.

Launching the programme today, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Sandra Duffy, said the festival would offer fun for all the family. “The programme for this year’s Summer Jamm is fantastic with a diverse range of fun activities for all ages. There will be the usual brilliant line up of live music to get everyone into the swing, as well as street animation, petting zoos, market stalls, circus skills and much more throughout the day.

“Strabane town centre will be absolutely buzzing with visitors and the festival provides a fantastic boost to the local economy. Summer Jamm brings out the very best in the town with its strong community spirit and vibrant cultural scene. It’s just the perfect day out for families and the perfect way to welcome in the summer.”

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BALLYGALLY CASTLE NAMED ONE OF WORLD’S TOP HOTELS BY TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE

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BALLYGALLY Castle has been named by Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel site, as one of the top 10% of hotels across the world.

The stunning property, located on the causeway coastal route, has been given the prestigious accolade as part of the 2023 Travellers’ Choice Awards which celebrates businesses that have consistently received great reviews from guests on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor globally.

Scott Weatherup, General Manager of Ballygally Castle said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been named as one of the top hotels worldwide. The fact that the winners are based on continued feedback and reviews from hotel guests from around the world makes this award extra special – as they have experienced first-hand the first-class accommodation and service we provide. Our guests are at the heart of everything we do and our teams work very hard to make sure each and every visitor has a memorable experience from the moment they step foot in the hotel.

As we approach the peak summer season, which is already set to be a very busy one for Ballygally Castle, this award is a fantastic boost for staff as it’s recognition that their hard work and dedication is appreciated. We’re proud to be the travellers’ choice.”

John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor said: “Earning a Travellers’ Choice Award demonstrates that Ballygally Castle has provided great experiences to those who matter most: your guests. Cheers to another successful year!”

Going Beyond Expectations: Ciara Burch’s Journey With Boardroom Apprentice

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2022 Boardroom Apprentice Ciara Burch

By Zahra Baz

Ciara Burch had long recognised the impact of board involvement throughout her role as a Project Management Consultant at PwC.

The Belfast-native previously felt she lacked the experience and knowledge required to sit on a board before the opportunity to gain hands-on experience came along.

With a strong desire to better understand the societal needs of Northern Ireland, the 36-year-old was quick to apply for the Boardroom Apprentice back in 2022.

“I was attracted to apply for the opportunity because I wanted to learn how to be effective on a board, and gain a better understanding of the big societal questions that the public sector and charity boards face and deal with on a daily basis.

“In the past I’ve worked in organisations that have answered to boards so I’ve really seen the impact they can have on major decisions. 

“I really wanted to better understand how the board was part of the ecosystem when it came to these public organisations.”

In 2017, Eileen Mullan established the Boardroom Apprentice initiative. This programme offers a distinctive opportunity for individuals interested in serving on public or third sector board to acquire knowledge, develop skills, and gain practical experience in a safe environment before venturing into the actual boardroom.

For her Boardroom Apprentice experience Ciara was placed with Belfast based charity Housing Rights, which works to help people in Northern Ireland live in safe, suitable, and affordable homes.

“The application process was incredibly simple and straightforward, just make sure to be open and honest because that will make your experience all the more meaningful.

“It’s incredibly important to understand why you want to sit on a board and, if you have a particular host board in mind, why you want to be matched with that one specifically. Knowing and understanding your ‘why’ directly affects how you make decisions so you really do need to be clear on that.”

For Ciara, she applied to Boardroom Apprentice with one overarching goal: to learn something brand new.

“I actually didn’t have a particular type of board that I wanted to serve on when it came to my application. For me it was more about understanding the role of boards and how they impact the work done in Northern Ireland on a societal scale.

“However, I selected charity host boards because it was beyond the realms of my normal working life and was an entirely new experience for me.

“Being on the Housing Rights board was such a meaningful experience. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and it opened my eyes to the key role that organisations and charities play in our society, the challenges they face and the innovative way they deal with challenges.

“I feel I got a really in-depth experience because I was invited to attend board activities at every level and was encouraged to be part of all of the activities. It really let me see the key role that every member plays in the room as well as the importance of asking the awkward questions!”

Recognising the significance of offering formal training and assistance to aspiring board members, the Boardroom Apprentice programme places a strong emphasis on upskilling. Every participant is required to participate in a series of structured learning days, which have been designed to enrich their abilities and broaden their knowledge. By prioritising skill enhancement in this way, the programme ensures that each individual is well-equipped to take on board positions with both confidence and competence.

With her expectations exceeded, Ciara initially anticipated the Boardroom Apprentice as more of a stepping stone towards board service. It was after the programme began that she recognised the emphasis on personal development.

“The programme was much more than I expected” said Ciara, adding: “There was a greater focus on personal development than I assumed would be possible in a programme of this scale.

“For example, communication was a key skill that was heavily emphasised throughout the programme so we were given the tools to tailor our communication styles to our audience in order to communicate messages or to question potential assumptions.

“On top of that, the calibre of the guest lecturers was far beyond what I could have expected. This includes some of the key personalities in public life who spoke with enthusiasm for what the programme is aiming to achieve. They shared their personal stories and spoke candidly of the difficulties they face in life, and passionately about what drives them to want to do better – their ‘why’.”

Additionally, Ciara often found herself pleasantly surprised by unexpected elements of the programme that went beyond her initial expectations.

“I was genuinely taken aback by the strength of the community that the Boardroom Apprentice programme has built and how supportive of an environment it all is.

“I feel as though I could reach out to any of my fellow apprentices to gain support in my boardroom journey.”

For those considering applying to this year’s Boardroom Apprentice programme, Ciara provides honest advice: “Take a deep breath and just do it. But make sure that you have the time to dedicate yourself, so that you can take advantage of everything that it offers.

“It’s opened up so many doors and opportunities for me, so I know the next round of apprentices will reap the same benefits. For example, I have a lot more confidence in asking questions – even the stupid ones because, more often than not, they’re the key ones that everyone’s thinking about.

“Don’t let your own prejudged ideas about yourself stop you from applying. Everyone has the right to be in the room and everyone is necessary for the conversations to happen.”

Applications for the 2023/2024 Boardroom Apprentice programme open on Monday June 5 and close at 3pm on Monday June 19.

To apply go the Boardroom Apprentice programme go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply

For more information on Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com 

Celebrations as Mourne Gullion Strangford is Awarded Full UNESCO Global Geopark Status

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Mourne Gullion Strangford has been awarded internationally coveted UNESCO Geopark status.

The UNESCO Executive Board met in Paris on Wednesday 24 May and announced that Mourne Gullion Strangford had been welcomed into its network of global Geoparks, making it one of only 18 outstanding landscapes worldwide to be awarded full accreditation this year.

The landscape encompasses Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Mourne, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough and Lecale.

Mourne Gullion Strangford’s varied and beautiful landscape has been shaped over aeons by the collision of continents, the appearance and disappearance of oceans, through tumultuous volcanic events, and the rough treatment of ice ages. It has shaped a rich biodiversity and a vibrant cultural life, which the new Geopark will celebrate.

It is unique amongst UNESCO Global Geoparks as it tells ‘A Tale of Two Oceans’ across 400 million years of geological history. The geology of the area charts the closure of the ancient Iapetus Ocean, which brought together the island of Ireland’s two parts. It follows the island drifting with the continents through tropical latitudes and then welcomes the birth of the modern North Atlantic Ocean. Finally, the last glaciation carved this ancient landscape into the fantastic place we see today. No other UNESCO Global Geoparks has such a range of geological characteristics or can tell this story.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said he was delighted that Geopark status was confirmed. “The status of the Geopark is hard won; since 2012 the Council’s Geopark project, in partnership with the Geological Survey Northern Ireland, has worked on an intense engagement programme with residents and stakeholders,” he said. “As a result, everyone involved is delighted that Mourne Gullion Strangford has been awarded the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG) status in recognition of this work and the extraordinary landscape it praises. It puts us on the world stage and firmly on people’s bucket lists of places they must see.”

A Geopark is a single unified geographical area, in this case, stretching from the waters of Strangford across the Mourne Mountains to the Ring of Gullion and beyond. A Geopark is a landscape that is managed holistically for the protection of its geology, the education of its people and visitors, and the sustainable development of its businesses. The Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark is about working together to make the most of our beautiful landscape through sustainable tourism, biodiversity improvements, geological education and sustainably managed outdoor recreation.

Talking about what makes Mourne Gullion Strangford unique, Chairperson Cllr Savage said, “The status of UNESCO Global Geopark demonstrates that our landscape is of global significance and is sustainably managed.

All the global geoparks have internationally important geology. But the community-led partnerships promoting an appreciation of natural and cultural heritage make our Geopark stand out.

“One of the fundamental Geopark principles is geological risk mitigation. One distinctive Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark project is the fantastic dune restoration project at Tyrella Beach near Downpatrick. This tourist hotspot was at serious risk of erosion due to the loss of its dunes until local volunteers and Geopark staff got together with homegrown charity, ‘True Harvest Seeds’, to gather, grow and plant native dune grasses to capture the blowing sand. Within just a month of starting this project, there is already visible dune regrowth, protecting not only the lovely smooth tourist beach of Tyrella itself but the low-lying land behind it too.”

Councillor Michael Savage continued, “Geoparks are, above all else, about local people; without their passion and enthusiasm, they cannot thrive or flourish. Much work is needed to ensure this award delivers what we need: a sustainable community and a local economy boosted through conservation, education, interpretation and sustainable and regenerative tourism. I have great confidence that the people and businesses of this district will work together to make the most of their beautiful landscape.”

Speaking after the award was announced, Laura Davies, Ambassador to UNESCO, added, “UNESCO Global Geoparks rightly enjoy strong international recognition.  Years of hard work, often behind the scenes, is recognised through impeccable independent accreditation.

“The new Mourne Gullion Geopark celebrates the story of our past, written into the land through geological processes; and focuses on the future of that landscape as it will be written by its people.

“The best UNESCO designations bring communities, sustainable development and conservation together in real, grass-roots partnerships. From small, local projects celebrating local geo-food, such as planting a community orchard in Newcastle, to major landscape-scale tasks like managing erosion on the peaks of the Mournes and the slopes of Slieve Gullion, the UK’s newest Geopark does this in spades.

“My warmest congratulations to all those involved in making it a reality!”

Marie Cowan, Director of the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, commented, “The tale of two oceans is clearly told in the unique geology of Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. The variety of landscapes included in the Geopark designates the area as a global attraction for geological and landscape-based tourism and education. To be able to see landscapes formed over 400 million years within such a compact area is exceptional, and the variety and sheer beauty of this Geopark make it one of a kind.”

A special day of celebration took place on the 25 May on the shores of Carlingford Lough at Cranfield and a packed programme of events and activities will take place throughout the year across the Geopark.

Homecoming Queen Cara ready for Stendhal

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Perhaps the brightest musical light to ever emerge from the Roe Valley Region of the North-West, is finally making her debut at Stendhal Festival this summer.

Cara Dillon, described by Mojo magazine as having “quite possibly the world’s most beautiful female voice,” has seen major success in her outstanding career which has spanned almost 30 years.

She has seven critically acclaimed solo albums to her name, a bountiful haul of awards, including BBC Folk Awards, Meteor Music Awards and Hotpress awards and this July, Cara will perform for the first time at Stendhal Festival, an event that thrives in highlighting indigenous talent. In terms of the festival’s base around Limavady and the Roe Valley, there is no more an acclaimed home-grown performer than Cara Dillon.

Cara’s formative years were spent in Dungiven, where she says music was a way of life and a means for people to deal with the ongoing troubles present in 70’s and 80’s Ulster.

“Music was a big part of my life growing up in Dungiven and as a result all my friends played instruments or sang a wee bit, “she said.

“We were all taught fiddle or whistle in school and I took Irish dancing lessons as well. I suppose the culture became a really important totem of identity during the troubles when so many civil rights were being eroded or ignored.

In Dungiven I was swept up in the passion for the culture and I thank my lucky stars I was.”

Her Pathway to musical success began with her family, the youngest of six siblings, Cara says that music was a staple of her household.

“We were playing the records of the 80’s day and night in our house,” she recalled, “it was the days when we all watched Top of the Pops and one of my first records was the mini pops and Olivia Newton John. But at the same time my sister, Mary, was playing Paul Brady, Moving Hearts, Planxty and The Bothy Band amongst others, and we listened to Dolores Keane and Mary Black on the tape player on every holiday.

“From that initial love of music, and my sister teaching me a thing or two it was really the Fleadhs, the workshops and the competitions where I learned how to sing. I never had singing lessons but I was taught the songs I sang by the legendary Paddy Tunney amongst others.”

Cara would go on to excel at performing and she won the All-Ireland singing trophy at the Fleadh at 14 years old. This opened a lot of musical doors for a young Cara, who would go on to join a teenage folk band called Óige.

It was during this time that Cara first started to think to herself that music was a viable career choice.

“I realised after a tour in Germany with my teenage folk band Óige that one of the biggest parts of being a professional musician was definitely being able to thole the touring and I really enjoyed it and it got me thinking it would be a grand thing to do this for a living. I think I was about 16 or 17 years old,” she said.

From that epiphany at such a young age, Cara’s talent and determination took over and she carved out a fast-rising career but it was her win at the Meteor Music Prize for Best Irish Female in 2004 that made her understand just how successful she had become.

“Winning the Meteor Award for Best Irish Female in 2003 was so exciting and important for me at the time. I felt I had finally ‘arrived’ and that my hard work and all the sacrifices I made had been worth it as I had been given a stamp of approval in my own country and it meant the world to me. There have been other awards that have had more of an impact on my career, but that’s a different thing.”

Now living England, Cara says that she keeps incredibly close ties to home saying:

“I’m never off the phone to my family no matter where I am and I try to get home as often as I can in between gigs and my busy family home life. Sure, what’s it all about if you can’t get home?”

The next time Cara comes home will be for her hotly anticipated debut at Stendhal Festival on Saturday, July 8th a gig she says she will be incredibly proud to finally play.

“I’m so proud there is a fantastic festival just down the road from my homeplace. In England there are so many festivals and I really notice when I’m back home the lack of festivals here in the North. I love hearing from friends and family who is playing each year and love that is has grown from strength to strength. I can’t wait to finally see it all for myself.”

Despite this being her first Stendhal appearance Cara is no stranger to performing at Festivals all over the world.

“I love preforming at festivals. There’s usually a party-like atmosphere. I particularly enjoy the fact that I can do one uninterrupted set and it’s usually all my favourites, a bit of an indulgence.

“However, the downside to this is that it’s over quickly and you are off the stage before you realise what just happened, as an artist this can be quite frustrating when you are just getting warmed up to it all. Also, you’re rarely playing to your own crowd so there’s aways a desire to “win the crowd” which helps everyone perform that little bit better.

“I have spent the last 25 years doing a wide variety of festivals in the UK and Europe and it never fails to amaze me how it’s a great opportunity for people to come together and share not just a couple of nights of music but sometimes a whole week.

“It’s not just the music that is so great but the food, the crafts, the art and the way it brings people together in an almost tribal way. It’s a fantastic way to escape the everyday – work, suits and ties, school, chores. And more than anything it’s a great leveller, everyone can be free to be themselves under the sky or stars.”

Beyond Stendhal, Cara also has an exciting new project called “Coming Home” in the works. It features spoken word and singing and features the most personal lyrics she says she has ever written. “Coming home” will be showcased on a UK tour this autumn with a very special concert in the Grand Opera House in Belfast on October 18th.

Cara Dillon performs at Stendhal Festival this July 8th. For more information visit www.stendhalfestival.com.

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