‘Guilt-Free’ Afternoon at The Avenue Cinema Belfast

Over 50 cinema enthusiasts from across Northern Ireland indulged in a guilt-free afternoon at The Avenue Cinema in Belfast, courtesy of zero alcohol wine brand Not guilty.

Organised by Craigavon-based United Wines, the distributer of Not Guilty in Northern Ireland, lucky winners of a competition enjoyed an exclusive trip to The Avenue in CastleCourt Shopping Centre. They were treated to a screening of the movie ‘Wicked Little Letters,’ featuring Oscar-winner Olivia Colman, along with complimentary drinks, food, and parking.

The Avenue Cinema

Not Guilty offers a range of full-flavoured, full-bodied zero alcohol wines, allowing drinkers to savour a few glasses without worrying about the consequences the next day.

Gemma Herman, Brand Manager at United Wines, highlighted the competition’s success, noting the enthusiastic response from people seeking a guilt-free day out in Belfast.

We ran this competition in January, a month when everyone wants to eat and drink healthier, and the response was fantastic from people wanting a ‘guilt-free’ day out in Belfast.”

She emphasised Not Guilty’s appeal to wine lovers who desire all the enjoyment without any drawbacks.

Not Guilty is the perfect drink for wine lovers who want all the fun without the baggage” she added that the range “is so good you’ll think you’re drinking the real deal.”

Sarah Heath from marketing agency LBVG was on hand to make sure that guests didn’t go thirsty

Crafted with top-quality grapes, the Not Guilty range, including Rosé, Pino Grigio, and red variations, delivers authentic flavours that rival traditional wines.

The ‘Low and No Alcohol’ market is on the rise across the UK, with half of the population purchasing such products in 2022. Millennials, in particular, are leading the charge, with over a third of them buying Low & No alcohol products in the last six months.

Established in 1985, United Wines, a subsidiary of Heineken Ireland, has grown into one of the largest drinks distributors on the island of Ireland. With an 80,000 square foot warehouse in Craigavon and a staff of 55, United Wines supplies a wide range of beers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks to over 1,000 establishments nationwide, including bars, restaurants, hotels, off-licenses, and more.

There is no better time than the present to try this leading company’s Not Guilty range, “and in the morning, your head will thank you for the guilt-free good times,” said Gemma.

 

By Natasha Nelson

‘CelebrateHer’ Conference hosts hundreds kicking off International Women’s Day!

On Friday, March 1st 2024, the vibrant spirit of International Women’s Day came alive as nearly 300 women gathered from across the North Coast community for the empowering ‘CelebrateHer Conference’ held at the Ulster University Coleraine.

Organised collaboratively by Enterprise Causeway & Ulster University and expertly hosted by Caroline O’Neill, founder of Digg Mama and the Digg Podcast, the event centred around the theme ‘Inspire Inclusion.’

Throughout the day, attendees were treated to an array of inspirational keynote speeches and panel discussions, where speakers from diverse backgrounds shared their personal stories and triumphs.

Networking took centre stage, providing attendees with invaluable opportunities to connect, exchange stories, and strengthen their collective power.

Additionally, the event featured a support and employers’ marketplace, offering insights into personal development, training opportunities, and career prospects.

Reflecting on the day’s success, Event Promoter Jane Taggart expressed immense pride in the event’s ability to bring together such a dynamic group of women. Ulster University Provost, Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the university’s commitment to celebrating female leadership and innovation.

Supported by Causeway Coast and Glens Labour Market Partnership and the Connecting Communities project, funded by the International Fund for Ireland, the ‘CelebrateHer Conference’ underscored the importance of unity, empowerment, and the collective pursuit of progress.

As plans for next year’s event take shape, organisers eagerly anticipate building upon this year’s success and continuing to champion women’s achievements across Northern Ireland.

By Natasha Nelson

Ulster University celebrates inspirational scholars

Ulster University’s Development and Alumni Relations Office welcomed scholars, donors and University supporters for an evening of celebration to mark the incredible achievements of hundreds of students who have been awarded scholarships.

The annual Scholarship Celebration Event took place on the Ulster University Belfast campus last week. This was an evening of celebration, recognition and appreciation offering opportunities for scholars to celebrate with their loved ones as well as meeting and thanking donors who make Ulster University scholarships and awards possible. Guests enjoyed music while networking with donors and supporters before hearing from University Provost Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan and previous scholarship recipients about the powerful impact this support has on transforming the lives of students.

“The annual Scholarship Celebration Event is a valuable opportunity to thank our incredible donors who are supporting the development of hundreds of Ulster University students at present. Scholarships are a lifeline for some students, allowing them to continue their education at university, often in the face of challenging personal circumstances.” Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan.

Alongside a range of scholarships funded by the generosity of individual donors, trusts and foundations, corporate donors who attended the event included Action Renewables, Aflac NI, Allen & Overy, Allstate NI, Belfast Harbour, Choice Housing, FinTru, KPMG, Optum Ireland, the SHS Group, SSE Airtricity, and Subway Ireland.

We are investing in future talent, rewarding academic excellence, and building the skills of top performing students from non-accounting backgrounds. We know scholarships make a real difference to the student experience and impact strongly on career outcomes”. Jonny Hannah, Partner in Charge, KPMG in Northern Ireland.

Meet the Scholars!

Among those awarded a scholarship is Saorla Boyle, a Paramedic Science student at Ulster University Derry~Londonderry, whose journey to Ulster has been defined by determination and resilience, despite her diagnosis of a long-term condition three years ago. Since her diagnosis, Saorla has continued to strive for excellence to achieve her place on the competitive Paramedic Science degree programme, balancing her studies alongside volunteering and being the sole carer for her young daughter. Saorla has remained resolute in her commitment to a career in Paramedicine despite financial hardships and setbacks in education and considers her scholarship as the key to stability and a brighter future, enabling her to fully focus on her education and support her young daughter.

“I feel hugely privileged to have been awarded this scholarship. It will allow me to focus solely on my studies and raising my daughter, while alleviating some of the pressure that comes with being a full-time student and single mum. I am grateful to have gained a place on the much sought-after Paramedic Science programme, and now, with this added support, I can give my all to reaching my potential and becoming part of our wonderful healthcare community.” Saorla Boyle Ulster University Student.

Ulster University Paramedic Science student Saorla Boyle (left) pictured with her daughter at the Scholarship Celebration Event.

 

Recognised at the celebratory event was Jonathan Weir, an undergraduate student who, after suffering a life-threatening spinal cord injury in his previous career as an electrical engineer, is re-skilling at Ulster University for a career in technology, a sector he has a keen interest in. Now a Year One Computer Systems student, Jonathan is using his bursary to fund his travel costs to the Ulster University Belfast campus and to purchase wheelchair equipment and other adaptive equipment for his computer.

 

“I have always had an interest in technology and fixing problems, so the Computer Systems course is allowing me to pursue a new career that I can work comfortably in following my accident. Travelling up to 100 miles per day for my studies is costly, however my scholarship is supporting with the purchase of a wheelchair accessible vehicle and other adaptive equipment.” Jonathan Weir Ulster University Student.

 

Ulster University Computer Systems student Jonathan Weir pictured at the Scholarship Celebration Event.

 

In 2023, the University saw a 28% increase in applications to the Student Opportunity Fund and a 59% increase in applications for Academic Opportunity Scholarships from full-time students, in comparison to the previous year, with more and more students under financial strain in light of the cost-of-living crisis. 

Ulster University continues to prioritise fundraising for scholarships as a result, with donations from corporate donors, individual supporters, trusts and foundations helping the University to continue transforming Northern Ireland through sustainable regional economic and social development by harnessing the power of its people, place, and partnerships.  

  

Ballymena Academy Reunion

On Wednesday 28th June, Rosspark Hotel, Kells was the venue for the reunion of the ‘Class of 73’ past pupils of Ballymena Academy.

Around 50 attended from both near and as far away as France, Switzerland and Cyprus! Guests enjoyed a meal, a quiz based on memories of school days and local band Reverb provided music.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening with many humorously suggesting a repeat evening in another 25 years!

Full coverage in our August issue, on sale now!

 

Jacqueline Robinson Archer, Heather McLoughlin, Linda Millar, Maureen Stratton
The Steering Committee – Jane Matthews, Roy Douglas, Margaret Murray-Tait Paul, Elizabeth Kernohan Cusick (Front) Linda Millar, Yvonne Reid, Yvonne Crabbe McCarroll
Class of ’73

We Are Here Book Launch

As part of Refugee Week, Refugee Rescue is launching a children’s book in Belfast. We Are Here by Kate Rafiq is available at Waterstones for £12.99 and online. The Northern Ireland based charity operates the rescue vessel Mo Chara (meaning My Friend in Irish) which works in the Central Mediterranean, and challenge the narrative around search and rescue personnel who are often referred to as activists, adding a political dimension that is not representative of the work as humanitarian responders.

We Are Here is a children’s book written and illustrated by Kate Rafiq. It tells the story of a young boy and his mother as they make a long and difficult journey in search of safety. Full colour illustrations accompany meaningful prose poetry in this call to empathy and action in increasingly hostile times.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale now!

QUB Net ’ball’

Queens’ University Netball Club held their ‘Net-Ball’ on Saturday 13th May.

The formal was held in The Great Hall, the Lanyon Building, and was attended by club members and alumni.

Awards were presented on the night, with an after party in The National, Belfast.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale now!

Kate Fitzsimons and Sam Buchanan at QUB Netball Gala
13 May 2023
The Great Hall Queen’s University Belfast Belfast
CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com
Abbey Conroy and Leah Doran at QUB Netball Gala
13 May 2023
The Great Hall Queen’s University Belfast Belfast
CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com

Mayor’s Charity Ball

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane districts held the annual charity ball on Friday 26 May in the Guildhall, Londondderry.

The ball signified the end of Mayor Sandra Duffy’s term in office and raised funds for her chosen chairty, First Housing Aid and Support Services.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale now!

150 Years of Lurgan College

Lurgan College is proud to be celebrating its 150th anniversary this year and to mark this remarkable milestone in the history of the school an anniversary dinner was held on Friday 16 June in the Seagoe Hotel, Portadown.

The occasion provided a wonderful opportunity for staff, pupils, governors and parents from each of the last eight decades to enjoy an evening of nostalgia and entertainment and share fond memories of their time at the College. 

Full coverage in our July issue, now on sale!

NI Children to Lapland

NI Children to Lapland Trust held their charity gala ball on Saturday 27 May in the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Bangor.

Focus Menswear were the main sponsor for the event with attendees bidding in the auction and dancing the night away to raise funds to help children fighting illness throughout NI by giving them a day they and their families will never forget.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale now!

Whiskey Week in the Big Smoke

The 5th Belfast Whiskey Week, l launched in the Jailhouse, Belfast. Ireland’s largest whiskey festival returns Friday 21 July – Saturday 29 July featuring multiple events, in partnership with 18 venues with over 30 brands and distilleries delivering sessions.

For more information and tickets visit

www.belfastwhiskeyweek.com.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale now!

Youth Lyric Dinner

Dunmurry Golf Club was the venue for the Youth Lyric end-of-term dinner, which celebrated a highly successful year for the charity.

Guests enjoyed a drinks reception on the terrace before moving inside the clubhouse where a presentation was made to Head of Dance, Jane Stewart, marking her 35 years of service to the charity.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale Friday!

A Day at the Races

The sun and the style were out in full force for Ladies’ Day at Down Royal on 24th June.

Day two of the Summer Festival of racing saw the fashionistas turn out for the Best Dressed Competition which was won by Maria McAvoy from Annaclone in Co. Down, pictured left.

Full coverage in our July issue, on sale Friday!