Category: featured-1

THE EMPIRE LAUGHS BACK AND HARP LAGER PARTNER TO BRING LIVE COMEDY TOUR TO ALL SIX COUNTIES OF NORTHERN IRELAND

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World-renowned comedy club, The Empire Laughs Back, is taking its much-loved comedy evening on tour to all six counties of Northern Ireland for the very first time. Belfast’s longest running and most revered comedy club has been making people laugh since 1992, welcoming some of the biggest names in comedy through the doors for over 30 years.

The local comedy scene has recently had an incredible boom, with comedians selling out arenas, collaborating on projects, launching successful podcasts, and even making a name for themselves globally. With a clear growth in demand for comedy, and more people seeking out moments of humour during difficult times, the club has partnered with Harp Lager to take their much-loved show on the road.

Featuring top-quality acts from across the UK and Ireland comedy circuit, attendees at the events are set for a brilliant nights craic and great tasting pints. Taking turns to host will be local legends Colin Murphy, Paddy McDonnell and Andrew Ryan and keeping the laughter going will be headline acts such as Ciaran Barlett, Paddy Raff, Susie McCabe, William Thompson, John Colleary, Adam Bloom, with more still to be announced.

Entertaining new audiences as they go, the Empire Laughs Back tour will stop at the following locations:

  • Harbour Gin Bar, Portrush: Wednesday 10th April
  • Sallys Of Omagh: Wednesday 17th April
  • O’Hares Newcastle: Wednesday 24th April
  • Peadar O’Donnell’s, Co Londonderry/Derry: Wednesday 1st May
  • Blakes of the Hollow, Enniskillen: Wednesday 15th May
  • Court House Bar, Lurgan: Wednesday 29th May

Commenting on the tour, Elaine Johnson, Harp Brand Manager, said, “Harp has been a proud partner to The Empire Laughs Back Comedy Club over the past 3 years. During that time, we’ve seen the comedy scene flourish and last year we tested the waters by going on tour to three locations outside of Belfast. We were overwhelmed by the response! With all tickets selling out and some in less than 24 hours! 

“As a brand that is very down-to-earth and enjoys a laugh, we feel it is the right time to extend this tour. This year we will show up in all six counties, reaching new audiences, spreading the laughter, and of course offering up a free pint of Harp to enjoy along the way.”

Jade Henry, Production Executive at The Empire Laughs Back said: “I firmly believe humour makes us more resilient, creative, and resourceful people, it is simply good for the soul! In recent years we’ve seen such growth in popularity across the local comedy industry and as a result, we’ve loved welcoming more people through the doors of our Belfast venue.

“It feels like the perfect time to be taking our much-loved comedy night across all six counties of Northern Ireland. We are excited to share the talent of the comedians we have the pleasure to work with and bring laughter across the country.”

Tickets for the tour are now on sale at empirelaughsback.com at a cost of £12 per person, with a discounted rate for students of £10 per person. Not forgetting a free pint of Harp on arrival. There’s limited tickets per venue, so, to keep up to date with the tour and to look out for ticket giveaways, check out Cool FM on air and socials and The Empire Laughs Back website and socials.

 

25@25 Entrepreneurial Programme at Babson College

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Participants from Ulster University’s pioneering 25@25 Leaders Programme have landed in Boston, USA for a week-long residential at the renowned Babson College, the programme’s only portion that takes place in the United States. The purpose of the residential is to develop the participants’ entrepreneurial skills, learning how to apply them effectively in any organisational setting.

The week-long, immersive trip marks a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between Ulster University and Babson College. The 25@25 Leaders Programme, rooted in Babson’s renowned Entrepreneurial Thought & Action ® methodology, is designed to empower participants to drive positive change and innovation in various sectors, which are crucial to the future of Northern Ireland.

25@25 Leader programme participants at Babson College, Boston.

University Provost at Ulster University, Cathy Gormley-Heenan, said: “This visit to Babson College is a unique opportunity for our 25@25 participants to immerse themselves in a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. We are excited to see how this experience will further equip them to become impactful leaders and change makers in Northern Ireland.

Ulster University and Babson College have a long-standing relationship dating back to 2006, with numerous collaborative initiatives and programmes aimed at advancing entrepreneurship education and fostering entrepreneurial leadership and innovation. Babson College President, Stephen Spinelli Jr., who has played a pivotal role in the development of this partnership and continues to champion entrepreneurial education globally, said: “I am glad that our two communities have a shared history of advancing entrepreneurship education, and I look forward to many continued years of collaboration.”

During the visit to Babson College, participants will explore concepts such as creating economic, social, and environmental value, developing a growth-oriented leadership style, and fostering collaborative work environments where innovation thrives.

25@25 participant, Nuala McAdams, manager in EY Northern Ireland’s Government & Infrastructure Advisory team from Derry, said: “We are all so excited, we’ve had an amazing day 1 on this incredible campus with its inspiring entrepreneurship course team.

“This week at Babson College is a brilliant opportunity to reflect on what we’ve done so far, where we want to be and what our passions are – this week and this course will give us the tools to go on to make a difference in each of our sectors.”

Nuala McAdams at Babson College, Boston.

Killeavy Castle Estate named Sustainable Medium Business of the Year

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Killeavy Castle Estate has been named Sustainable Medium Business of the Year at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards 2024 which took place at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin on 21 March. The awards celebrate individuals and organisations across the island of Ireland that demonstrate leadership, innovation, investment and ingenuity in the areas of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG).

This award win is testament to Killeavy Castle Estate’s outstanding contributions to sustainability in the hospitality sector.

Nestled midst the slopes of Slieve Gullion, Killeavy Castle Estate has pioneered the integration of hospitality and sustainability across its 365-acre estate since its inception. The estate’s dedication to eco-friendly practices since it opened its doors in 2019 has consistently led the way in green tourism, illustrating its commitment to sustainable operations.

The estate’s sustainable achievements include a comprehensive zero-waste food program, a strict no single-use plastic policy, and extensive recycling initiatives, as well as investing in sustainable energy solutions throughout the hotel. Furthermore, Killeavy Castle Estate has embarked on an ambitious €1.5 million landscape restoration project in the surrounding Slieve Gullion area, demonstrating a profound commitment to environmental preservation and is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of reaching carbon neutrality by the end of 2024.

Owners Mick and Robin Boyle have been instrumental in driving the estate’s sustainability ethos. Their passion for conserving the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity, combined with a sustainable approach to estate management, has ensured that sustainability is woven into the fabric of everything the estate undertakes.

Accepting the award, Matthew Hynds, General Manager of Killeavy Castle Estate, said:

“We are immensely proud to receive this recognition for our efforts in sustainability. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here at the estate, and the visionary leadership of Mick and Robin Boyle. 

“At Killeavy Castle Estate, we believe that sustainability is not just an initiative but a way of life. We are committed to continuing our journey towards a greener future, inspiring others in the hospitality industry to follow suit.”

 

For more information about Killeavy Castle Estate and its sustainability initiatives, please visit www.killeavycastle.com.

Pictured receiving the award for Sustainable Medium Business of the Year at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards L-R: Cristian Fierastrau, Operations Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate; Lorcan Allen, Business Editor, Business Post; Matthew Hynds, General Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate and Fidelma Boyce, Assurance Partner, PwC.

Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024

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Four distinguished individuals were recognised at the annual Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards in association with Hafele Ireland.

The awards took place in the Ulster Reform Club on Thursday 14th March. Now in their fifth year, the awards were established to acknowledge the contribution made by key individuals in the architectural and interior design sectors in Northern Ireland. The awards were hosted by fashionista and Cool FM presenter Rebecca McKinney.

Norman Wilson, founder of furniture retailer CFC Interiors, was awarded a Lifetime Recognition Award for his contribution to the furniture industry at the gala dinner. Norman was born in Kilinall in Caledon and has been in the furniture business for nearly 50 years. As well as CFC Interiors the company also incorporates beds.ie and Killymoon.

North Belfast native Martin Hare, from architectural practice McAdam Design, was awarded for his contribution to architecture. Martin has worked on many award-winning projects including Belfast Boys’ Model School, Templemore Baths and Bangor Aurora Aquatics and Leisure Complex.

Cookstown born Ronnie McCulloch, from kitchen design practice

Daniel George Kitchens, was awarded for his contribution to the kitchen industry. Daniel George Kitchens is based on the Ruskey Road in Cookstown.

Co. Down born Evelyn Mehaffey, from interior design studio Stylish Living, was awarded for her contribution to interior design. Stylish Living is based on Lady Wallace Lane in Lisburn.

For full coverage, see our upcoming April issue.

Rebecca McKinney, Mick Smith, Hafele and Norman Wilson, CFC Interiors pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club.
Rebecca McKinney, Martin Hare, McAdam Design and Joseph Cryan, Hafele pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club.
Rebecca McKinney, Mick Smith, Hafele and Evelyn Mehaffey, Stylish Living pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club..
Rebecca McKinney, Ronnie McCulloch, Daniel George Kitchens and Joseph Cryan, Hafele pictured at the Ulster Tatler Interiors Lifetime Recognition Awards 2024 which took place at the Ulster Reform Club.

Belfast Lord Mayor Meets Young Entrepreneurs

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Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy has met with six early-stage entrepreneurs from the Good Friday generation taking part in a Young Enterprise NI (YENI) USA Connect mission to Boston and New York this week, funded by United States of America Embassy in the UK.

For over thirty years, Young Enterprise has developed young people’s entrepreneurial skills and ambition to support the entrepreneurial thinkers, leaders and founders of the next generation.

The Lord Mayor said: “It was a pleasure to meet these Young Enterprise Fellows before they embark on their trade mission to our Sister City Boston, and New York. They represent a brand-new generation of entrepreneurs here, who grew up in a more peaceful society, and are committed to building an inclusive, entrepreneurial economy here.

The delegation comprises:

Leon Gibson, board member of Friends of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, a 501(c) organisation that supports Young Enterprise’s work through US links. From 18-21 years of age, Leon built several nightlife businesses, which continue to run and host over fifty-thousand attendees annually. Leon has since completed a business degree at Queen’s University Belfast and has been investing in deep-tech start-ups through the Creator Fund.

Dr Pragya Sharma, founder of Gran Lab, began her journey in Delhi, India, specialising in Biochemistry and Medicine. With a Doctorate focused on novel drug targets, she now leads Gran Lab in developing steroid-free dermatological solutions for adult psoriasis and paediatric eczema. Pragya is now in the process of bringing this to market and building a biotech export and has been supported through Belfast City Council’s business programmes.

Jordan Graham, founder of Sugar Snap, is a YENI board member and Ambit programme participant. Name-checked during the Presidential speech in Belfast to mark 25 years of the Good Friday Agreement, Jordan’s business is a food sector-specific marketing agency which provides strategy, design and content creation for successful local food eateries and larger clients.

Eva-Jayne Doherty is a community builder in the Irish start-up ecosystem. A committed supporter of entrepreneurs across the island, she has headed up national tech accelerators, pioneered programmes to inspire the emerging generation of entrepreneurs with Young Enterprise NI, and nurtured a community of founders to create scalable, investable businesses. Amongst her fractional support for start-ups, Eva-Jayne is currently working with the AwakenHub, a community of women founders in Ireland, and Regionally Ventures, a national investment service providing capital for regional growth.

Peter Gileece, founder of Vikela Armour, has developed a novel method of layering composite materials using a unique 3-D printing process to produce lighter, stronger and more personalised body armour/protective solutions and has already started taking orders from customers.

Maebh Reynolds, founder of GoPluggable, allows owners of home electric vehicle chargers to rent out their chargers to improve accessibility, affordability, and convenience for customers.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy has met with six early-stage entrepreneurs from the Good Friday generation taking part in a Young Enterprise NI (YENI) USA Connect mission to Boston and New York this week, funded by United States of America Embassy in the UK.

Family Events for St. Patrick’s Day

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St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland isn’t just a holiday; it’s a cultural extravaganza filled with rich traditions, lively festivities, and historical significance. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of the occasion or a visitor eager to experience the unique charm of Northern Ireland, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a curated list of the best activities to make the most out of this spirited celebration.

St. Patrick’s Day Music Weekend: Kick off the festivities with three days of concerts, céilís, and Irish dancing. Bagpipes and highland dancers will take centre stage, adding a touch of tradition to the vibrant atmosphere. The craic begins on March 15th, setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend.

Annual Parade: Join the sea of colour as the annual parade winds its way through the streets of Belfast on March 17th. Starting from Belfast City Hall at 1:30pm, the parade features dance troupes, community groups, and musicians, showcasing a multi-cultural celebration of people, place, and planet.


Festival Village: Head to Cathedral Gardens, beside St. Anne’s Cathedral to experience a festival village like no other. Enjoy céilí workshops, family-friendly activities, and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of St. Patrick’s Day.Ticketed Performances: Treat yourself to ticketed performances featuring renowned artists like Anúna and Frankie Gavin and Dé Dannan. From vocal groups to fiddle players, these performances promise to captivate audiences with their mesmerising talent.

Free Events for Families: Make it a day to remember with free events at Number 2 Royal Avenue. From art workshops to dance performances, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy on March 17th.

St. George’s Market: Don’t miss the lunch-time performances by musicians from Ards Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann on March 16th and 17th. Experience the lively atmosphere of one of Belfast’s most iconic markets as you soak in the sounds of traditional Irish music.

Trad Trail: Embark on a week-long Trad Trail from March 10th, showcasing free music performances in bars, restaurants, hotels, and visitor attractions across the city. Immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional Irish music as you explore Belfast’s vibrant cultural scene.

Ulster Folk Museum: Enjoy a traditional St. Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum on 17th and 18th March with activities including listening to traditional music, watching Irish dancers, craft stations with live demonstrations, and even the opportunity to taste traditional food and drink with a special themed menu in the Tearoom for the occasion.

Down Arts Centre: If you’re interested in the Arts, head to Down Arts Centre on 17th March where crafts for the whole family will be held throughout the day, including children’s crafts, Dramability will be holding a live performance, mono printing demonstrations will be on offer and circus entertainment will entertain the crowds.

Festivities in Newry: Newry’s St. Patrick’s Day parade will embark on its journey from the Quays Shopping Centre at 1pm, with local schools, organisations and the community coming together to celebrate the occasion. Finishing in Kildare Street, the celebrations will continue to thrive in the centre of town, as well as McClelland Park and Newry and Mourne Museum at Bagenal’s Castle, where family-friendly activities will be ongoing throughout the day.

Whether you’re dancing to traditional tunes or exploring the city’s historic landmarks, embrace the magic of this special day and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Internationally Renowned Street Artist Brings Vibrancy To Ormeau

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Internationally renowned street artist, Dan Kitchener, ‘DANK’ has just completed his latest mural at 135 Ormeau Road, depicting the Ormeau Bridge at night.

Dan Kitchener, whose epic scale wall murals, canvas shows and live painting events have been seen by millions over the years, has collaborated with artists including Paul McCartney, Kylie Minogue, Lenny Kravitz, and The Prodigy.

Thanks to a “Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations” grant, led by Belfast City Council and funded through the Department for Communities Revitalisation programme, Lower Ormeau Traders Association commissioned Dan to create the mural.

Áine Groogan, Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor said: “It’s fantastic to see the spotlight being shone on the Lower Ormeau. Recently, retailers have been hit hard by the pandemic and a much more challenging economic climate.”

“It’s particularly good to see this addition to our street art during Belfast 2024, our city’s biggest ever creative and cultural celebration – we’re starting to see even more beautiful artworks bringing vibrancy to Belfast neighbourhoods’ north, south, east and west.

Gordon Lyons, Communities Minister said: “My Department is committed to the regeneration of cities and towns across Northern Ireland through initiatives which promote urban renewal and development of public spaces. With this in mind, the Supporting Vibrant Business Destinations scheme is designed to enhance Belfast’s arterial routes, help local traders drive forward the regeneration and economic competitiveness of their area, and to enrich communities.”

Dan Kitchener, Artist, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that, “street art has the power to transform public spaces, spark conversations, and hopefully bring a bit of joy to people’s everyday lives.”

The mural will officially be unveiled on Saturday 16th March as part of the Lower Ormeau Spring Festival, from 12 noon – 3pm. For more information on Belfast City Council’s support for business, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/cityforbusiness

 

 

CIPR Awards Shortlist

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Two Ulster Tatler Media Group publications, Perspective and Ambition, have been shortlisted in the 2024 Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Northern Ireland Media Awards in the category Magazine or Supplement of the Year.

These awards are the main press awards in Northern Ireland and the chair of the judging panel is the well-known journalist, Michael Crick. The awards ceremony takes place on Friday 15th March at The MAC in Belfast.


On the Pulse Festival Illuminates Screens this March

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The 6th Cinemagic On The Pulse Festival is set to dazzle screens this March, celebrating the vibrant world of short films. With funding from the Department for Communities through Northern Ireland Screen, the festival promises an exciting line-up of films, jury programs, and masterclasses aimed at nurturing aspiring film, television, and media creators.

Presented in partnership with Film Hub NI through the BFI FAN Film Exhibition Fund, the festival’s world cinema program and young critic panels offer a diverse range of storytelling, highlighting universal youth perspectives. The On the Pulse Young Filmmaker Competition showcases emerging talents, supported by the Department for the Economy, providing a platform for budding filmmakers to shine.

Irish Film Director Paddy Breathnach

Masterclass sessions led by industry experts such as Paddy Breathnach, Daniel Gordon, and Jeroen Jaspaert offer invaluable insights into directing, documentary filmmaking and animation, inspiring the next generation of creatives.

The On The Pulse Festival will present the very best world cinema for young people where short film compilations from around the world will be shown in Northern Ireland for the first time, with a chance for discussion and debate to decide the 2024 winning films.

The festival also celebrates local talent, with showcases for filmmakers from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, alongside premieres of films produced through Cinemagic’s partnerships, emphasising cross-border and cross-community collaboration.

Families and young audiences can enjoy a range of screenings, including episodes from the animated series “Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures,” early years favourites like “Little Princess” and “Sarah and Duck,” and a tribute to silent comedy master Buster Keaton.

 

The festival also offers a rich selection of international short films, including enchanting and thought-provoking titles like “A Bear Named Wojtek” and “Margot and the Space Robot.” Over St Patrick’s Day weekend, Irish-made films take centre stage, accompanied by storytelling sessions and screenings of Irish-inspired tales.

With a line-up featuring both new releases and beloved classics, the On the Pulse Festival promises to be a celebration of creativity and storytelling for audiences of all ages. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of short films on the big screen this March!Booking at www.wegottickets.com/cinemagic & www.queensfilmtheatre.com

By Natasha Nelson

Blood Cancer Charity to Raffle £20,000 Diamond Pendant

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Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI are marking their 60th anniversary by holding a raffle on Friday 27th September, giving ticket holders the chance to win an extravagant diamond pendant with an estimated worth of £20,000.

 

The charity’s Gala ‘Black Tie & Diamonds’ Ball, is set to be held at Titanic Belfast with tickets available to purchase online via the LLNI website. To be in with a chance to win, tickets for the raffle are also available on the website for £10, with the winner being announced on the night.

 

The pendant necklace features a 1.52 carat D class natural Diamond set in platinum. The jewellery was donated by Belfast antiques dealer Eleanor Wolfendon-Orr to help benefit the blood cancer charity’s fund-raising efforts.

 

Eleanor holds the charity close to her heart, as she is currently fighting against myeloma – an incurable but treatable blood cancer. Eleanor has already managed to raise a massive £67,000 for LLNI whilst simultaneously running her shop Kennedy Wolfenden Antiques and Jewellery with husband Sam for over 40 years.

 

The Gala will mark a massive milestone for the charity whilst also being a celebration for the ways in which the vital research it funds, continuously helps change patient outcomes in Northern Ireland and across the globe.

 

Chair of LLNI, Richard Buchanan said “Every day three people in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with Blood Cancer. So, we are asking the public to please buy a raffle ticket, join us at our gala ball or make a donation and help us to continue this vital work.”

Model and Social Columnist, Nuala Meenahan, showcases a beautiful diamond pendant donated by Belfast antiques dealer Eleanor Wolfendon-Orr. The winner of the necklace will be unveiled at a gala ball in aid of blood cancer charity, Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI in September 2024. Raffles tickets available for £10 at llni.co.uk.

By Natasha Nelson

QUALCOM ANNOUNCES 10 PER CENT REVENUE GROWTH AS IT UNVEILS REFRESHED BRAND IDENTITY

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Newtownabbey-based Qualcom, a leading provider of strategic IT services and security solutions, has announced an unprecedented 10 per cent Year-on-Year revenue increase for 2022/23, along with the creation of 8 jobs in Northern Ireland and 25 in the Republic of Ireland.

The news comes as the organisation unveils a refreshed brand identity and a new website.

Specialising in tailored, strategic IT solutions, Qualcom offers a comprehensive suite of security services, including Managed IT Services, Professional IT Services, IT Security, Field IT Services, IT Resourcing, and Enterprise Class products.

Established in 1995, the organisation has since grown substantially and currently employs a team of over 75 professionals that partner with more than 500 clients situated across NI, ROI, the rest of the UK, and the Channel Islands.

A strategic technology partner to every type of business, Qualcom delivers round-the-clock, tailored support. The provider seamlessly integrates technology into its customers’ operations, fostering growth, efficiency, and sustained success.

Speaking at the unveiling of Qualcom’s new brand identity on February 15th, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, said, “It is a pleasure to witness Qualcom’s next evolution and I would like to congratulate the organisation on its exceptional revenue growth over the past year.

 “Qualcom has been a trusted IT partner to businesses throughout Northern Ireland since 2013, including the many SMEs that form the backbone of our economy. It is also a significant local employer and I wish the organisation every success as it continues to grow.”

Qualcom remains at the forefront of advancement and innovation in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence technologies by partnering with leading global providers. This ensures that the organisation delivers advanced, reliable, and securely managed IT services.

As Cyber threats continue to evolve, Qualcom remains dedicated to developing best-in-class services to combat these challenges. The organisation also harnesses the power of Microsoft technologies, including Azure Cloud Services and Microsoft 365, to ensure that its clients’ businesses operate efficiently and securely.

Leeann Saunders, Managing Director at Qualcom, comments, “Qualcom is delighted to announce a 10 per cent Year-on-Year revenue increase along with the creation of 33 jobs across the island of Ireland. This demonstrates our commitment to fostering economic growth in NI and ROI.

“At the core of our vision is a commitment to redefining the IT experience and to ensuring that businesses can navigate and excel in the ever-evolving digital world with confidence and ease.

“As we embark on a new era, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering cutting-edge IT services and solutions to our clients throughout ROI, the UK, and the Channel Islands.”

To learn more about Qualcom’s transformative IT solutions and services, visit: www.qualcom.co.uk

Pictured l to r are Ken Ryan Managing Director at Qualcom Steven Norris, Deputy Director of Regeneration and Infrastructure at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Leeann Saunders Managing Director NI at Qualcom