TraleeToday.ie’s coverage of the Rose of Tralee International Festival is brought to you by CH Tralee…

There’s just days to go until the Rose of Tralee International Festival begins, it’s about time we met the first 16 Roses…

Cavan

Hello, my name is Grace Farrelly, I’m 20 and I am the 2024 Cavan Rose. I am currently studying Sociology and English in Maynooth University, hoping to go on and become a secondary school teacher. I also work in Cavan General Hospital at the weekends when I’m home from college and during the holidays.

My hobbies include singing, travelling, reading and cooking. I have two brothers Andrew and Leon and I am the middle child. My ambitions in life are to see as much of the world as I can, while I can! I hope to pursue a career in teaching as I have a passion for English and would like to share my passion with children to help them develop a love for it, like I did with the help of my brilliant teachers when I was in school.

I love to read and have a particular love for poetry with some of my favourite poets being Adrienne Rich, Sylvia Plath and Emily Dickinson. I am so honoured to represent the great county of Cavan in this wonderful Festival, and I am so thankful for this amazing opportunity.

Chicago

My name is Megan, I’m 29 and I’m honored to be the 2024 Chicago Rose. I grew up in a large Irish family with four siblings and 41 first cousins, and I developed a strong connection to my Irish heritage at an early age.

My Irish roots hail from counties Cork and Clare, and I still have cousins living in Dublin City. I hold an undergraduate degree in Finance and a law degree from the University of Illinois. Currently, I work as an attorney at a financial company in downtown Chicago.

I was a former competitive Irish dancer and 10-time World Qualifier, which allowed me to travel to Ireland many times. Recently, my travels to Ireland include running the Dublin City Marathon, one of five marathons I’ve completed.

I love being active and am an adventurist at heart, enjoying hiking, skiing, surfing, and golfing! Being involved in the vibrant Irish culture in Chicago is a passion of mine.

I’m on the board of The Young Irish Fellowship Club, volunteer at Old St. Patrick’s Church, and am a member of the 2023 and 2024 Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Queen’s Court. I’m so thankful for this opportunity and will cherish it forever!

Cork

My name is Shauna, I’m 25, and I am honoured and delighted to be representing the Rebel County as this year’s Cork Rose.

I’m a native of Araglen, a vibrant rural community, bordering Cork, Waterford, and Tipperary, but rest assured, I am a proud Cork woman. My mother and father hail from North and West Cork respectively, and I am the eldest of four.

Last year I graduated from University College Cork with a Master’s degree in Pharmacy. I work in my hometown of Fermoy and occasionally as a locum pharmacist, which allows me to meet wonderful people from all around the county.

I take pride in this role and feel privileged to be making a positive difference in the communities in which I serve. My family are avid participants in all local events. I have been reared with a strong sense of community spirit.

I am the vice-treasurer of the local carnival committee, a long-standing festival now in its 67th year. I consider myself a friendly, bubbly and enthusiastic person, who loves a chat (a dominant family trait!) over a cup of Barry’s Tea. I lead an active lifestyle by going to the gym or walking whenever I can.

Derry

Hi, My name is Darcy Taylor, and I am from the small village of Bellaghy in County Derry. I am 25 years old and proud to be representing my county as the 2024 Derry Rose.

I studied a BA in Drama at Ulster University in Derry and went on to complete my Masters in Media and Broadcast Production at Queens University Belfast. I have been fortunate enough to work on some great television programmes including Rare Breed, Saol Na Feirme and Rip Off Britian.

I am currently employed at BBC Radio Foyle, and I love hearing people’s stories, achievements, and all about the great work they do in their communities. I’m particularly interested in working with women who have experienced conflict in war and telling their stories.

Outside of my work I love sewing, reading, and watching documentaries. I’m really looking forward to meeting all the fantastic Roses and hearing their wonderful stories.

My philosophy, which I encourage all young girls to follow, is in the words of the great Seamus Heaney… “We should keep our feet on the ground to signify nothing is beneath us, but we should always lift up our eyes to say nothing is beyond us.”

Donegal

I’m Niamh, I’m 27 years old and I was born and raised in Donegal. I have a passion for Irish dance, teaching, and travel. My twin brother and I started Irish dancing at age 4, performing globally as ‘The Shevlin Twins.’

In 2018, I joined Michael Flatley’s ‘Lord of the Dance,’ and performed the female lead role of ‘Saoirse’ for 5 years. I regularly perform with the cast of Riverdance and have travelled to over 50 countries on 6 continents with my dancing.

Having many dreams realized, I now aim to pass on my passion for Irish dance to younger generations. I have recently qualified as a primary school teacher, and I teach young children in schools around the county.

My teaching has also expanded to Africa. After traveling to Uganda in March 2023 with Irish Aid, I began teaching weekly online lessons, aiming to ignite a passion for Irish dance in children from the world’s poorest regions.

Dubai

My name is Ciara, I’m 27, and I am delighted to represent Dubai in the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival. I’m a secondary school Irish and mathematics teacher from Newmarket, Co. Cork, and I’m currently on career break from St Mary’s Secondary School in Mallow.

I made the move to Dubai last August to explore new horizons. I’m teaching at Hartland International School, where I’m the deputy head of the mathematics department. I love socialising, and have a passion for health, wellness and sport.

As a football player with Club Abhainn Dalla, I was delighted to join Dubai Celts GAA, immersing myself in the Irish community abroad. I enjoy coaching basketball, both in Ireland and now in Dubai.

A highlight was leading my school basketball team to All-Ireland success.As a Gaeilgeoir, my lifelong passion for Irish language, music, and culture remains a cornerstone of my identity.

Whether it’s through playing the harp, or conversing in Irish, I am dedicated to preserving and promoting our rich heritage and look forward to celebrating our Irish culture even further with the Roses in Tralee.

Dublin

Hi! I’m Casey, a 24-year-old singer and music teacher from Finglas, North Dublin. I am so excited to be representing my home as this year’s Dublin Rose!

Having grown up with the biggest love for music, I pursued my passion by completing a degree in Commercial Modern Music at BIMM Dublin, graduating in 2022. You’ll rarely find me not singing, but I especially enjoy gigging with my band, The Ratzingers.

I also share my passion through my work as a music teacher and vocal coach, running my own vocal academy in Finglas and teaching music in primary schools around North Dublin with Music Generation.

I find my job incredibly fulfilling, and I love to see people of all ages build their confidence through music. Music aside, I love to travel the world with my lovely fiancé, Alex. We have developed a lengthy list of dream holiday destinations which we are slowly but surely working through.

As far as I may travel though, I love nothing more than being at home to spend time with my (large) circle of family and friends. I cannot wait for my nearest and dearest to join me in Tralee!

Florida

My name is Molly Ronan, and I am a 24-year-old Florida native hailing from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. As someone who has a keen interest in people and different cultures, I graduated from the University of Florida in 2021 with my Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology.

Being proud of my Irish heritage I have always celebrated my roots in every way I can. I was a champion Irish Dancer and the 2022 senior Mid-Atlantic Fleadh champion on flute, tin whistle, and harp. I currently work as a first-grade assistant and substitute teacher at St. Paul’s Catholic School as well as a freelance wedding and event harpist.

Music is a big part of my life and I always seek to give back to my community by playing at assisted living facilities, churches, schools, and charity functions. Having been involved with the Florida Rose Center since 2017 as a Junior Rose, I am honored to be representing the Sunshine State here in Tralee.

Galway

Hello there, my name is Deirdre, I’m 29 years old and I’m honoured to be representing my beautiful county as the 2024 Galway Rose.

I’m the youngest of three girls, raised by loving parents in Ros a Mhíl, a Gaeltacht village in Connemara in the West of Ireland. In my late teens, I struggled to decide what I wanted to do in the future.

I was feeling lost when I stumbled upon a course description that said, “If you’re a kind and caring person who wants to help people, then this course is for you.” Reading this was a special moment for me, I knew I wanted to be a social worker.

I graduated from Trinity College Dublin in 2019 and I’m currently working as a Medical Social Worker in University Hospital Galway. In my spare time I enjoy going to art classes, spending time with loved ones and bringing my dog Pooka for walks.

I’m always working on personal growth, self-care, maintaining positive mental health and helping others do the same. I’ve been as far away as India, Africa and Australia and I also love a good road trip at home in Ireland with family and friends.

Kerry

My name is Emer, I’m 23 and I come from Castlegregory, nestled between mountain and sea on the Wild Atlantic Way.

I am honoured to be representing Kerry for this year’s Rose Festival. I graduated from University College Dublin as a Radiographer and work as a Paediatric Radiographer at Temple Street Hospital, covering Tallaght and Connolly Hospitals’ Paediatric Departments.

I have worked as a lifeguard in both Castlegregory and Ballyheigue, volunteered with Irish Water Safety, and participated in Community Games, all of which fuelled my passion for working with children.

Tá grá don Ghaeilge agam, and I am a fluent speaker, having attended secondary school in Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí in Tralee. I am learning Irish Sign Language and Lámh (a manual sign system) to enhance my communication skills.

I volunteer in Barretstown, providing enjoyable experiences for seriously ill children and their families. My childhood was filled with activities from swimming to cheerleading, winning medals at local, national and international levels. I love meeting people, and traveling, and I’m excited to connect with my fellow Roses.

Kildare

Hello! My name is Catherine Cunningham, and I am proud to represent Kildare in the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival.

I am 24 years old and live in Rathangan, Co. Kildare. I am a caseworker with Turas Nua, working with people who are seeking to return to part-time and full-time employment.

My Dad Thomas was born and raised in Bracknagh, County Offaly until he met the Lily White that stole his heart, my Mam Kay, from Rathangan, Co Kildare.

They built a home on my Grandparents’ farm and have spent the best years of their lives building an incredible life for me and my four siblings. I enjoy exercise, playing cards and a cup of tea with a chat (especially with my dad).

I am passionate about my job and how the smallest of actions can have such an impact on others. My motto in life is “you make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give”. I am really looking forward to Tralee this summer and meeting the rest of the Roses and making memories that will last us all a lifetime.

Kilkenny

My name is Lisa O’Rourke, I am 28 years old and hail from Castlecomer, Co.Kilkenny. With a BSc in Marketing, I work as an Employee Communications Specialist at Tirlán.

I’m an outgoing and fun-loving individual who absolutely thrives on socialising and making new friends. Music and performing are my passions, followed by a girly cocktail night, sports and travel.

The thought of exploring different cultures across the globe and embarking on thrilling travel adventures fills me with pure excitement. My family and friends mean the world to be and I would not be where I am today without their support.

Since I can remember I have had a great interest in the Rose of Tralee, becoming part of the judging panel yearly in my own head. I relate to what it stands for and I am delighted to be part of the 2024 Rose family.

I simply can’t contain my enthusiasm for the Rose of Tralee International Festival, as I know it’s going to be the experience of a lifetime! I am honoured to be representing Kilkenny and look forward to meeting my inspiring Rose sisters.

Leitrim

My name is Shauna Murtagh, and I am 23 years old. I am from Carrick-on-Shannon, and I am honoured and delighted to be selected as this year’s Leitrim Rose. I recently finished my final year at University of Galway, and I am graduating at the end of August with a degree in Commerce (Global Experience).

The degree gave me the incredible opportunity to study abroad at University of Albany, SUNY. I am currently working in our family business, Cryan’s Hotel in Carrick-On-Shannon and I am involved in the social media marketing there.

I am taking this time to focus on my career path, and I intend to travel more over the year. Sports has always been a major part of my family’s life, from GAA to rowing. I started my rowing journey with Carrick-On-Shannon Rowing Club, and continued with University of Galway Boat Club where I went on to win 2 Irish National Championships.

I hope to help advocate more for girls in sport and coaching with my local rowing club. I am grateful for all the support I have received locally, and I am looking forward to an incredible Rose journey.

London

My name is Glenna Mannion, hailing from Tulsk, Co.Roscommon. I am 28 and am absolutely privileged to be representing my home from home as the 2024 London Rose. As the youngest of four siblings, I aim to make my parents and family proud in everything I do.

I’ve been in London for the past 8 years and am deputy manager and service coordinator of a residential home for young people with autism.

I aim to provide the highest quality of care so that they leave us stronger and more resilient in the next stage of their lives. Living and working in one of the most multicultural cities in the world has exposed me to different experiences, languages and cuisines.

Travel is one of my great interests, as well as meeting new people from all walks of life and embracing different cultures. I have also had the opportunity to learn and grow in ways that may not have been possible if I was still living in Roscommon.

I am very proud and absolutely thrilled to return home not only representing London, but also Roscommon. I can’t believe I am making my dream of being on the stage in Tralee a reality.

Louth

Hello! I’m Justine McGuirk, a 27-year-old woman from Ardee in the heart of Co. Louth, but I was born and raised in the lively town of Drogheda!

I graduated from Dundalk Institute of Technology with a Bachelors (Hons) in Health and Physical Activity. While studying, I realised I wanted to pursue a career working directly with people with disabilities.

Since then, I’ve been advocating for their rights and raising awareness about their capabilities. I am lucky to work as a Day Service Supervisor, helping find meaningful activities for those I support.

I’m a proud member of Voices of the Boyne Choir, a social choir founded to showcase the talents of women across the Wee County, all whilst having fun! I love listening and dancing to country music, enjoying walks, and trying new things!

Being selected to represent Louth at this year’s Festival has already been the experience of a lifetime and I am so grateful for all the love and support! I am incredibly excited to continue on this journey and enjoy all the magic yet to come!

I’m a positive and bubbly person with a rosy outlook on life! I live by the motto “everything happens for a reason!”

Melbourne

My name is Dervla Dolan, I’m 25, and I am delighted to be representing the diverse city of Melbourne and its massive Irish community at the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival.

I am both a Primary and Secondary school teacher, specialising in the subject of History. Teaching in Melbourne has been a great learning experience, allowing me to meet children from all over the world.

I am constantly learning about their different cultures and traditions, whilst proudly sharing my own. I hail from the village of Killyclogher in County Tyrone and made the move to Melbourne in 2022. I come from a family very involved in running and I have completed thirteen half marathons and one full marathon.

Upon moving to Melbourne, I established my own running community called Run for Enda, in memory of my brother. This initiative has enabled over one hundred people to train for and complete a half marathon, making me a very proud coach!

Our endeavours also raised a substantial amount of money for The Kevin Bell Trust, a charity very important for all of us living overseas. I am very excited to make the journey home as the Melbourne Rose!

Click here to meet the remaining 16 Roses!

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