You’ve met the first 29 Rose of Tralee 2018 contestants (click here if you missed them), now meet the other 28…

MEATH ROSE

I am 23 years old and come from Skryne. I am in my third year of a BSc in General Nursing in DCU. Most of my training is completed in Beaumont hospital in Dublin, one of the busiest hospitals in the country. I wish to pursue a Masters and become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner specializing in cardiac care following my primary degree. Sport is paramount in my life and I have played football and ran for Meath, and have two Leinster athletics medals in the 800m. I am running the mini marathon this year in aid of Pieta House, a charity I hold close to my heart. I am a sociable person and love meeting new people and  enjoy the company of others. I have a passion for music and have a particular love of artists such as Ella Fitzgerald and Simon and Garfunkel  .. The golden oldies!

MELBOURNE ROSE – SUZIE JACKSON

I’m 27, born in Boston on Valentine’s day, my parents always thought I was destined to be a ‘Rose’.  We moved to Ireland when I was four years old.  My Dad was born in New York but grew up in Cork where he met my mom, a Cork native. I grew up in Dublin and Cork completing my Nursing Degree at UCC.  I began Nursing in the Mercy Hospital Cork, before heading off to Melbourne three years ago with a group of friends.  I’m now nursing in the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, the number one Trauma Centre in Victoria. My sport is basketball, I play for a local Melbourne team and represented Cork at underage level. Travel is my passion having visited the US, Europe, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, New Zealand and of course Australia.

MONAGHAN ROSE – HANNAH MOONEY

I am 24 and proud to say I am from Co. Monaghan, from a small parish called Aughnamullen East in the middle of Monaghan. I have two older brothers, who sometimes act more like bouncers and it’s safe to say I’m a Daddy’s girl.  I am in my final year of Adult Nursing in Queens University, Belfast, and will soon qualify as a Registered Nurse, following in the footsteps of my mum.  Having taken the scenic route to my Degree, I am a strong advocate for alternative pathways in further education, nothing is impossible and often the scenic route has the best views!!  Myself and my family are community focused, with music playing a huge part in our lives, as well as GAA and fitness in general.

NEWCASTLE/GATESHEAD ROSE – CIARA HARVIE

I am 20 years old and live in the beautiful south east coast of Scotland. Since leaving school in 2015, I took a risk and followed my dream to become a classical singer. My passion for singing has given me many life changing opportunities, such as appearing on The Voice UK 2017 and representing the UK at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow. I feel extremely fortunate to be able to support charitable events, most recently attending the “Art-football” campaign in Russia. Its aim is to support the ideals of Kindness and Humanity and raise funds guaranteeing treatment of seriously ill children.  My mum is a proud Cork woman and I have many happy memories of family visits to my large extended family in Cork City.

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR ROSE – BRIDGETTE ABBOTT

My heritage originates from County Kilkenny, Wexford and North Tipperary from both the Cuff and Butler families. I am a native of Musgrave Harbour, Newfoundland & Labrador, where I was raised as the youngest of eight children. I am a twenty seven year old Special Education Teacher, and am heading into a Master’s Degree in Leadership Studies. I am an avid volunteer, and am involved with numerous non-profit organizations and charities. I have recently become a “Big Sister” through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, and I enjoy spending quality time with my little sister and keeping her active in the community.  I have been awarded both the Queen’s (England) Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers by the Governor General of Canada in recognition of my continued volunteer efforts.

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NEW YORK ROSE – SARAH WARD

I’m a 22 year old born and raised New Yorker! I grew up in the Hudson Valley, about an hour north of NYC. My father hails from Brooklyn, raised by proud Co. Donegal and Co. Monaghan native parents. My mom grew up in Waterford City, and moved to New York to work as a nurse. I spent every summer of my childhood running around Dunmore East with my sister, brother, and clan of cousins. I attended a small State University outside of Rochester NY, where I studied Biology and Psychology. Just two weeks after graduating with my Biology degree, I began an intensive twelve month nursing program. I am now a graduated Registered Nurse, and I could not be more proud and excited to join this profession. When I’m not collecting college degrees, I love cooking and baking, going on hikes with my family, watching the NY Rangers, and planning my next travel adventure.

NEW ZEALAND ROSE – JOLENE MCLAUGHLIN

My name is Jolene McLaughlin, and I am a 25-year old musculoskeletal physiotherapist reigning from the hills of Donegal. I made the big move to New Zealand in 2015 after graduating from University College Dublin, and have been exploring the peaks and valleys of the beautiful country ever since I stepped off the plane. I have settled in Wellington, the “world’s coolest little capital” and am in love with the close-knit community and laid-back lifestyle it offers.  I work as a senior physiotherapist with Habit, and I feel very fortunate to have such an engaging and rewarding profession. I am forever seeking new challenges and adventures, and I enjoy hiking, camping, running, skiing and cycling. I am an active member of the Wellington GAA

NORTH CAROLINA ROSE – HANNAH VIRGA

I am a 25-year graduate student from North Carolina who could not be more honored to represent the great state of North Carolina! I graduated from East Carolina University in 2015 with a degree in Quantitative Economics and decided to further my education and obtain my Master’s in Business and Human Resources from the University of Richmond.  I currently work at Capital One Bank as a fraud analyst and love it! I am a coffee connoisseur and would love to open and run my own coffee shop one day. I enjoy spending time exploring my city for local coffee shops and festivals. I spend as much time running as possible and love trying all the new “hip” gyms. My mother was born and raised in Ireland and moved to the United States when she met my father, a true Romeo and Juliet story.

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OFFALY ROSE – KATIE KEHOE

I am 20 years old. I was born and bred in Tullamore, County Offaly. I am currently studying Primary School Teaching in Mary Immaculate College Limerick and will be going into third year come September. My life mostly centres around my family, friends and GAA. I play both Camogie and Gaelic football for my club and I also play with Offaly Ladies Football team. I am very lucky to play along side two of my three sisters both at club and county level. As well as training every day of the week I am kept busy helping to coach the underage football teams and I am currently managing Tullamore Minor ladies. I love being outdoors and being active and so I fill my spare time with walks and cycles with friends or family!

OHIO ROSE – Erin Stefancin

I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. I live in Ohio’s capital city, Columbus, where I am a first-year master’s student. I am 22 years old, studying Speech-Language Pathology at The Ohio State University, and hope to work with adults in an acute care hospital setting, specializing in stroke and traumatic brain injury. My maternal grandparents Sean and Agnes (McGrath) Fox, hail from Cong, Co. Mayo, and paternal grandparents Bob and Grace (Toolis) Stefancin from Achill. I have enjoyed singing since I was three years old, I also have a passion for volunteering with those with physical and cognitive disabilities through adaptive sports and games. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, doing yoga, baking, cooking, and hiking with my dog, Brady!

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PERTH ROSE

I’m 25 years young and originally from the beautiful hills of Donegal.  I am now living in my second home Perth, Western Australia. Since moving to sunny Perth I have gained invaluable learning and development opportunities. I am privileged to have been afforded the opportunity to nurse in Oncology and Palliative Care which has opened my eyes as to how precious each life is.  Since March I have begun working in Coronary Care and Intensive Care, I am enjoying all of the learning and skill development unique to this area of nursing. I enjoy the relaxed lifestyle in Perth, I am living by the beach nestled beside a small town called Fremantle.

PHILADELPHIA ROSE – KATIE KEENAN

I am 22 years old and so excited to be representing Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the 2018 Rose of Tralee Festival. I am a senior studying Communications at Temple University, but I have been spending this summer interning at a casting agency in New York City. I am a passionate traveler and have been fortunate to have lived in five different cities in the past five years. I enjoy cooking, photography, acting, and spending time with family and friends. In my spare time I help run a non-profit organization that I co-founded in honor of my beautiful sister, Jordan. “Jordy’s Cause” raises funds to help sick children and their families in our local community. I can trace my ancestry back to County Mayo and County Tyrone.

QUEENSLAND ROSE – SARAH GRIFFIN-BREEN

I am 27 and from Brisbane, Queensland. I have been fortunate to call Manly, a small bayside village in Brisbane home for my entire life.  My mum is from Athea in Limerick, she immigrated to Australia in 1979 after meeting my dad in London. My dad also has Irish heritage, his maternal grandparents are from County Tyrone and Clare and his paternal grandparents are from County Tipperary and Galway. I am a Lawyer having graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Law (Honours) from the Queensland University of Technology. I also hold a Bachelor of Biomedical Science. During my visits to Ireland, I developed a strong penchant for various Irish foods like Barry’s Tea, Tayto Crisps, Irish barmbrack and Irish soda bread.

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ROSCOMMON ROSE – EIMEAR REYNOLDS

I am 27 years old. I come from the picturesque village of Rooskey in County Roscommon along the banks of the Shannon. Music is my great passion in life and I graduated from Dublin Institute of Technology Conservatory of Music and Drama with a Bachelors degree in Music with Performance in 2015. I have been fortunate to build a career in performing throughout Ireland and abroad. I love travelling and meeting new people and consider myself lucky that music gives me the opportunity to do both. I have taught music to adults and children for many years and also work with local business in an initiative set up through our local arts centre called ‘The Office Choir’. My brother and I established the Roscommon Solstice Choir of which I am musical director.

SAN FRANCISCO ROSE – ANNIE POWERS

I am twenty-six years old and I am from San Francisco, California. My faith, family, friends, and Irish heritage are the most important things in my life. My mother’s grandparents immigrated to San Francisco from Castleisland in Kerry, and my father’s grandparents immigrated to New York from Lismore in Waterford. I grew up Irish Step Dancing with my four sisters for Greene Academy of Irish Dance. I graduated from the University of San Diego with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies and a minor in Philosophy.  I currently work in Business Development at Salesforce. My hobbies include spending time with family and friends, singing, running, volunteering, playing volleyball, dancing, and going to the beach!

SLIGO ROSE – JULIE PATTERSON

I am 27 years old, raised on a farm, alongside my brothers, and a nature lover with a deep appreciation for the outdoors. I enjoy hiking in my free time and Sligo is the perfect place to get out and explore the mountains. I always wanted to work with children and I am proud to say that I am a passionate primary school teacher in Malahide, Dublin. This year I am taking a career break and I am delighted to use this opportunity to pursue my dream of illustrating a children’s story that I have written, and ultimately publishing my first book. I am a creative lady who loves drawing, painting and poster design too! I love leading an active lifestyle and I was taught to appreciate good, honest food from a young age. I also like to volunteer and have done so both locally and abroad.

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SOUTH AUSTRALIA ROSE – EMILIE HELBIG

I’m 25 years old and from Adelaide, South Australia. My Irish ancestry originates from Newry, County Down where my great grandparents Patrick and Bridget Larkin resided. My family has always held our Irish heritage in high regard, in particular our love of Irish dance. My grandmother participated in the Irish dancing community in Adelaide, passing on her love to her daughters who then opened up their own studio, ‘The Newry Studio of Irish dancing’, named after the town from which our family originated. Their love was passed onto me and for the last 21 years I have revelled in everything Irish dance all over Australia and the world, and have recently moved my passion into the art of teaching.

SYDNEY ROSE – CAITLIN MACINANTE

I’m 26 years old and live in Medowie with my fiancé Barry. I work full-time as a Business Development Manager while studying a Bachelor of Primary Education part-time. Music is an important part of my life, I play guitar, piano and sing.  If I’m not working or studying, you will find Barry and I camping with our mates.  The late Steve Irwin was my hero and I grew up catching snakes and countless other creatures, I feel completely at home in the bush. My Grandmother Mary hails from Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny and my late Grandfather Jimmy from Castletownroche, Co. Cork.  They emigrated to Australia in 1961, shortly followed by the arrival of my mother who went on to become the 1980 Sydney Rose.  It is a rare privilege to share the same role she did 38 years ago.

TEXAS ROSE – KIMBERLY CORSER

I am a 22 year old student at Texas A&M University and will be graduating next spring with a Bachelors Degree in Economics. I plan on starting my own non-profit someday to benefit families of cancer patients both financially and emotionally. Having lost my father after a 13-year battle with cancer it is a passion near and dear to my heart. In the meantime I am working as a bartender at the local Irish pub, O’Bannon’s Tap house! My Irish roots come from my father’s mother through Co. Donegal. One of my biggest interests is Irish dancing and has been since I was seven. I have competed in the World Championships several times and plan to take my teachers exam once I graduate from college.

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TIPPERARY ROSE – LAURA DURKAN

I am 26 years old and I am from Clonmel. I am the eldest of three fanatical Tipperary supporters. Although, as our Dad is an exile from the wild west of Mayo, we always keep a fond eye out for the folks in green and red during the summer. I attended UCC where I graduated with a degree in Pharmacy and then completed my Masters in the RCSI in Dublin. I currently work for Pfizer in Kildare making medicines for patients all over the world. When I get some free time I head for the hills, or the coast, or anywhere outside in nature.  I love playing tennis and proudly represent my local club in leagues and competition events throughout the summer.

TORONTO ROSE – CARLY MCGRATH

I am 25 years old. My parents are native Irish, they emigrated to Toronto in the late 80’s. When I was two, we moved back home to Cooley, Co. Louth.  In 2014, I received my Bachelor of Arts International Honours Degree from the National University of Maynooth. Throughout my studies, I had the pleasure of studying abroad in the University of Vienna, Austria, where I specialized in Economics and Cultural Studies.  I work within the financial services industry in Investor Relations at Citco (Canada) Inc. I love staying active and playing sports. I play GAA for Durham Robert Emmets GFC and I am also the clubs first female referee. In addition, I train and compete in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, to say I am passionate about it would be an understatement!

TYRONE ROSE

I’m 22 years of age and live in the townland of Stewartstown, County Tyrone, where there is a rich community ethos that is very proud of their Irish heritage and the local GAA club Stewartstown Harps. I graduated in July 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from Queen’s University, Belfast and currently work as a Peripatetic Music Teacher and Performer, working alongside music companies such as ‘Live Music Now’ helping others with the power of music through performance. As well as my love for classical music, I also have a great affection for Irish Traditional Music and have recently taken up playing the banjo. I always admired my late father playing this beautiful instrument and wanted to keep the family tradition going.

WASHINGTON DC ROSE – MICHELLE KARKOS

I am 26 years old. I currently work as an analyst for the Department of Justice where I look at various crimes for trends and patterns. I’m looking to attend graduate school next fall and continue my career in law enforcement. Before starting work, I received my undergraduate degrees from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I studied psychology and sociology with my concentration being in criminal justice. While attending college, I was a collegiate rower. Being a rower taught me various life lessons that I still use in my career today! I did various sports besides rowing growing up. I was a swimmer, Irish dancer, soccer player and runner.

WATERFORD ROSE – KIRSTEN MATE MAHER

I am 21 years old and I’m the 2018 Waterford Rose. I love singing and sing with the island of Ireland Peace Choir which was formed in the wake of The Omagh bombing Co. Tyrone 1998. We have performed together in The Garden of Remembrance, The Aviva Stadium, Stormont and many other fantastic places. I play hockey with Waterford Ladies 1st team and we are currently competing at Munster Division 1 level! I have such a big love for animals, especially horses and dogs. I have been horse riding since I was five years old and in the future I hope to own many horses, dogs maybe even some sheep and goats too! In September I look forward to attending Waterford Institute of Technology to study Multimedia and Application Development. I hope to pursue a career in computer programming!

WESTMEATH ROSE – LEANNE QUINN

I am originally from Coralstown but currently reside in Newmarket on Fergus “The Rose Village” in Co. Clare. I turned 25 this summer and am the eldest of five siblings. With an interest in people and behaviours, I studied BSc Psychology at the University of Limerick and graduated in 2016 before moving to Dublin to work in Management Consulting at Accenture, Ireland. Throughout my time at university, I also lived in Canada, Scotland and New York. Finding a grá for health and fitness while in Dublin, I qualified as a fitness instructor and personal trainer and decided to return to UL to further my studies. Currently in my postgraduate degree, MSc Sports Performance, I’m very excited to be working with Munster Rugby for my thesis.

Saoirse WalshWEXFORD ROSE – SAOIRSE WALSH

I am 27 years old. I studied my BA in Music and History of Art at University College Dublin and in 2012, followed my dream of moving to London to complete my Masters Degree at Sotheby’s Institute of Art. I now work as a Marketing Executive for Collier Webb who specialise in restoration and historical interiors. Music is one of my great loves and I was the recipient of the National Excellence Award for Music Performance. I am passionate about volunteering with charitable organisations and am currently involved with the Irish Heritage Association and Plan Ireland. I am also carrying on my family’s tradition of running the Dublin Marathon while raising money for MS Ireland and the LauraLynn Hospice.

WICKLOW ROSE – LORNA MALLICK

I am 22 years old and honoured to be chosen as this year’s Wicklow Rose in the 2018 Rose of Tralee International Festival. I am living in a small village in the sunny South East county of Wicklow called Tinahely, where I was born and raised. I studied Gaeilge and Geography as my undergraduate degree in St. Patrick’s College in Drumcondra. I then went on to follow my dream career and have just completed the Professional Masters of Education with Hibernia College to qualify as a primary school teacher. I have just been offered my first full-time job for September! I live with my Mam Fiona, my Dad Joe, my older brother Colin, my Grandad Pat, and my two cute dogs, Benson and Hooch. My hobbies include playing the piano, GAA, working with children and travelling.

YORKSHIRE ROSE – ALANA GALLAGHER

I am 20 years old and originally from Ballybofey, Co. Donegal. In 2016 I moved to York to pursue my dream of becoming an Occupational Therapist at York St John University. I am now in my second year of the course and loving every minute of it! I also work part time in a neurological rehabilitation centre to further my knowledge and experience. I am an avid Gaelic footballer and upon my move to England joined the Gaelic football club ‘York Éireannach’. I am also vice secretary of the first ever Yorkshire Ladies County Board. The Gaelic team has developed a close knit community of people from Ireland, people with Irish heritage and even people with no Irish connection who enjoy the sense of community. I have also attended many of the York Irish association’s events.

The Rose of Tralee International Festival gets underway soon with the 57 Roses arriving in Tralee next Wednesday. And now (in alphabetical order) it’s about time you met some of them…

ABU DHABI ROSE – SARA KATE MANGAN

My name is Sara Kate Mangan, I am 26-years old. At the age of 18 I moved to Liverpool to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. After three  years, a leap of faith took me even further afield from my humble Mayo roots to Abu Dhabi. I am a dedicated and caring nurse working in the state of the art Cleveland Clinic in Abu Dhabi where we provide exceptional medical care to the local Emirati people. Interests include socializing and meeting new people, music, fashion and sport.

ANTRIM ROSE – ROISIN MCCLOSKEY

I’m 23 and live in a small town called Portglenone in Co. Antrim. I come from a big family, mum, dad, 3 sisters and 2 brothers, who all play Irish music! I graduated last summer from Queen’s University Belfast, with a BA (Hons) degree in Drama. Since then I decided to start my own drama business called Dramability.  In my spare time I work at the Jungle NI which is an outdoor activity centre. I’m a thrill seeker and love spending time dangling from the high ropes course or rolling downhill in a Zorb ball!

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ARIZONA ROSE – Kelsey Kelleher

I am twenty-five years old and I graduated with honours from Arizona State University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Design & Production with Dance and Music minors. I am proud to work in the heart of the Arizona Celtic community: the Irish Cultural Center & McClelland Library.  My passion to promote Celtic culture and to build a strong young Irish network has led me to become the President of the Friends of Saint Patrick Arizona Chapter, row on Currach Team Phoenix, and dance with the Michael Patrick Gallagher School of Irish Dance. I dream to instil joy through performance art and my goal is to study and work in therapeutic children’s theatre in areas of post or mid-conflict.

BOSTON & NEW ENGLAND ROSE – SORCHA ROCHFORD

I am 27 years old and I currently live and work in Boston I am London Irish at heart. My mother and father are both from Ballyduff, Co. Kerry. I grew up in London spending every Christmas and summer back in Kerry. I work as a Political and Advocacy Director where I manage client relationships for a host of the most influential political, brand, and non-profit organizations around the globe. I completed my undergraduate degree in Political Science and History at the University of Portsmouth in England before relocating to Boston, Massachusetts. Irish dancing has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.

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CARLOW ROSE – SHAUNA RAY LACEY

I am 24 years old from Carlow town. I live with my partner John and our beautiful daughter Emmy. In 2014​ ​I studied Year 1 of Beauty Therapy in CIFE. In 2015, I completed a TEFL course which assisted me to educate business entrepreneurs with pronunciation and everyday communication. I currently work in Boylesports bookmakers as deputy manager.​ ​I come from a background with strong GAA ties and am a proud owner of many county medals. When I’m not working or in my heels and sash, I can be found taking my hand to screwdrivers and hammers as I’m pretty nifty at DIY.

CAVAN ROSE – RACHEL CUSACK

I am 26 years old from Killinkere, Co. Cavan. My mother is from Co. Kerry (she is very excited to be getting back to her home county!), my father is from Co. Cavan and I have two younger brothers. I qualified as a general nurse from Dundalk Institute of Technology in 2014 . I worked in a Cancer Centre in Melbourne and travelled around the beautiful country. Returning home I moved to Co. Galway and am currently working in the Galway Clinic specialising in Oncology and Palliative care. I have played Gaelic football from the age of ten, and played with Killinkere Ladies until just before leaving for Oz.

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CHICAGO ROSE – KATIE CALLAHAN

In 2014, I completed my Bachelors of Arts degree, majoring in Theatre Arts and Broadcast and Electronic Communications, from Marquette University. I then went on to complete my Masters in Business Leadership.  My parents are both proud Irish Americans, and they have raised my three brothers and me with the same, strong sense of pride in our Irish roots. I spent last year living in Dublin, working with the Gaiety School of Acting. I am currently the Business Development Manager for Weekend Student Adventures, a travel organization dedicated to assisting students studying abroad in Europe.

CLARE ROSE – CLARA BURKE

I am 25 years of age. I am currently teaching Physical Education and SPHE. My journey in becoming a teacher began in Tralee where I completed my undergraduate degree in Health and Leisure. I continued my studies in the University of Limerick where I completed a Professional Masters of Education in Physical Education. Set dancing is a big passion of mine. I have been grateful to represent my county, province and Ireland on numerous occasions. Other hobbies of mine are GAA sports analysis which I carry out for a men’s senior football team, travelling, fitness and walks with my boxer ‘Pogba’.

CORK ROSE – ERINN O’CONNELL

I was born and raised in the beautiful village of Aghabullogue, Co. Cork. At 25 years young, I am a qualified children’s and general nurse, currently working in Cork University Hospital. I am very passionate about my job and relish making a difference in people’s lives. Away from the busy wards, camogie is a real passion of mine and I enjoy both playing and coaching underage teams. I also enjoy going to the gym and socialising with friends. Singing is another passion of mine, having grown up in a household of singers, spearheaded by my grandfather, there was never a family event without a singsong!

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DERRY ROSE – ÉMER MCKENNA

I am 21 years old and I am from a small community called Slaughtneil, just outside Maghera in County Derry. I am going into my final year of university studying Cardiac Physiology at the Ulster University in Jordanstown. I’m the ‘baby’ of the house with two older brothers and two older sisters. One of my main passions in life is raising money for charity, in particular for cancer charities. I feel like it’s important to give back to those who have helped you in the past. When my father became ill with cancer in 2002, as a family we received so much help and support from cancer charities. This is where my love for fundraising and helping others has originated.

DONEGAL ROSE – NIAMH DUGGAN

I’m 21 and I’ve just completed my third year in NUIG, studying Irish, Psychology and Performing Arts. I’m based in Galway throughout the academic year but I call Tory Island my home. Growing up on a Gaeltacht island instilled a love of Irish culture in me. I am a fluent Irish speaker and singer. I’ve been singing since I was four and have sang at weddings/other social events, as well as competing in Irish traditional singing competitions. My joy in life is my friends and family. I love meeting new people. I love to travel and experience different cultures. I adore children and have a passion for helping people and standing up for others.

DOWN ROSE – CIARA KELLY

I am 24 years old and the eldest of four. I live in Cabra – a small townland nestled in the Mourne Mountains. I graduated in 2015 from Queen’s University with an undergraduate degree in psychology. I decided to further my studies at Queens and completed a Masters degree in Atypical Child Development in 2016. During my studies I took up a part time post with Autism Initiatives, Newcastle, working as a support worker. I am now with Autism Initiatives full time, enjoying every minute of it!  In my spare time I am the PRO at my local GAA club Clonduff which keeps me on my toes. I also love to travel when I have the chance and love participating in the Scór recitation competition.

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DUBAI ROSE – REBECCA EGAN

My name is Rebecca Egan, I’m 26 and humbled to represent Dubai. Raised in the Faithful County of Offaly, I studied Media & Gaeilge in Mary Immaculate College, where I returned to become a teacher, graduating in 2015. In 2012, as I studied Media and Theatre in Chicago, I knew I was destined to become a student of the world. I have followed my heart’s desire and now teach in Dubai. A published writer, and creative writing workshop leader, I adore igniting my creative flair, as previously enjoyed in theatrical productions such as Les Misérables, Beauty and the Beast, CATS and many more.  I love supporting Special Olympics Ireland, Darkness Into Light and children’s groups wherever I am.

DUBLIN ROSE – TANYA FEIGHERY

I’m 26 years old and from Tallaght. I graduated from DCU with a BSc honours degree in PE with Biology in 2014. I am excited to start working in Kingswood Community College as a Science and PE teacher come September. I recently qualified as a Zumba instructor and intend to hold Zumba classes in the school. Dance is  one of my biggest passions. In 2008, I represented Ireland in the World Championships of Performing Arts final in L.A. where I won a gold, two silver and a bronze medal. Animal welfare is important to me. I volunteer as often as I can mainly helping out with fundraising events.

FLORIDA ROSE – VICTORIA SEXTON

I’m 24 years old and absolutely elated to be your Florida Rose! I was born in Dublin and grew up on a lovely little farm in Kildare where I have the most wonderful memories of my childhood in Ireland. I used to happily muck through the fields training horses with my dad and assisted my mammy at her salon in Monasterevin by giving hand massages to her clients! We moved to the Sunshine State in 2004 to Ocala, and in 2008 we became Sister Cities with Newbridge, what luck! Currently, I am a vocal student at the University of South Florida in Tampa. In my spare time I like to volunteer, go on Mission Trips to Mexico, and of course I love going to my beautiful Florida beaches!

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GALWAY ROSE  – DEIRDRE O’SULLIVAN

My name is Deirdre O’Sullivan and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be this year’s Galway Rose. Growing up, we spent our Summers in Tralee. As my grandparents lived on Denny Street, we always felt we were more than just at the Festival – we felt we were part of the Festival.  Home is Luimnagh, a small village on the edge of Lough Corrib. I currently live in Dublin and work as a primary school teacher in St Clare’s, Harold’s Cross. I am passionate about health and have been a regular volunteer with Croí since 2009. I have also taken a lead role in St Clare’s active school flag initiative – which involves “Wake Up, Shake Up” and coaching the hurling team, among other things.

GERMANY ROSE – GIULIA KEARNEY

I am half-Irish on my father’s side and German on my mother’s side. I currently live in Kiel, studying law in my second year. Besides spending time at the beach on the Baltic Sea, I enjoy cooking with my friends and pursuing my passion for singing. In 2015 I lived with family in Clontarf, Dublin and attended the Holy Faith Secondary School for a transition year. Being this year’s Germany Rose also gives me the opportunity to honor my Irish grandmother Patricia, who unfortunately passed away in 2016. She gave me the chance to live in Ireland for a year and always strengthened and encouraged me in what I’ve been doing.

KENTUCKY ROSE – LORRAINE GAVIN

I’m 25 years old, and live in Louisville. I was born in Mayo, and at age 17, after attending Cloggernagh N.S. and the Sacred Heart School in Westport, left Islandeady to study Applied Languages at UL. From then on I travelled and moved around – a lot. I’ve been lucky to visit over 50 countries, and experience living in Tenerife, Brussels, New York, Ecuador, France and Estonia. In January 2016, after five months in Tallinn, I returned home to start the job at Portwest that would bring me to Kentucky in August 2016, as part of the Enterprise Ireland G4IG program. I am now the Operations Manager at Portwest USA. I also enjoy running, hiking and being outdoors, and I’ve been very fortunate that I can do all that here. I also recently adopted a pet hedgehog, her name is Squishy!

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KERRY ROSE – CELINE O’SHEA

I was born in Foilmore, a parish just outside Cahersiveen, in the beautiful county Kerry. At the age of 25, I am a qualified social care worker and am currently working as a Dementia activities facilitator in St Luke’s Home, Cork. I have recently completed a postgraduate certificate in ‘Ways of Understanding Dementia and Dementia Care’ with Trinity College Dublin.  My love of travel and new experiences has brought me to countries Australia, Canada, Thailand, the Netherlands, Spain, France, Italy, Belgium and America. Being active has always been important to me having been a member of teams for football, rowing and running over the years. I currently play tag rugby and  I recently completed a climb of Carrauntoohil to raise money for St Luke’s home and Pieta house.

KILDARE ROSE – GRÁINNE CARR

I’m 23 and I grew up in Ardclough village. I am the youngest in my family with two older brothers and my parents, Evan and Angela, were also born and raised in Kildare. I graduated from Maynooth University last September with a First Class Honours Law Degree and I have since completed the entrance exams to the Law Society. I currently work for Compton Solicitors and I will begin my training as a solicitor with William Fry next year. Debating and public speaking are my passion, and I was fortunate to captain my debating team to win the Concern All Ireland Debating League. I have a grá for Irish dancing and I competed in feiseanna until university. I continue to dance as much as possible as it is lovely to have a passion that also has the added benefit of keeping fit!

KILKENNY ROSE – HELENA HUGHES

I’m 26 years old and I grew up in Kilkenny city, but since 2010 we’ve been based in the beautiful village of Kells. During the week I work as a buying assistant in Brown Thomas head office, and home to Kilkenny every weekend. I’m completing a Masters in Fashion Buying and Management part-time in DIT, having previously won the DIT Arthur Ryan Gold Medal in 2016. I spent a year teaching in France, but I missed Ireland and decided to move back and manage a vintage shop for about a year. I love music, I play celtic-style piano and sing as an alto in the Brown Thomas choir. I’m a real home-bird and I love spending time with my Kerry-born Granny and my fabulous Mammy.

LAOIS ROSE – GRÁINNE HOGAN

I am 23 years of age. and I live in the great townsland of Cardtown at the foot of The Slieve Bloom Mountains. I knew I wanted a career in farming so I got my place in Gurteen Agricultural College studying the beef and sheep side of things. I now work for Noel and Breda Dooley on their dairy farm, milking cows and doing general farm work. I‘ve always had a love for farming and animals, my world revolves around both. I love attending agricultural shows during the summer months. I am the proud aunty of the most amazing little boy Frankie. He was born in 2015 with Spina Bifida and he has just been an absolute inspiration to us all. No matter what is going on around him he has the biggest grin.

LEITRIM ROSE – IMELDA SCALLY

I’m 26 years old , originally from Roscommon where I grew up in a small village called Loughglynn. I have very fond memories of playing GAA with my two brothers Brendan and Christopher and my only sister Ann-Marie for our local club. I completed a BB in Marketing with PR & Event Management in Sligo IT. After I graduated I was fortunate enough to attain a job in hospitality and from there the interest and passion grew for weddings and events. I am currently working in The Landmark Hotel in Carrick on Shannon as the Wedding Sales Manager.

LIMERICK ROSE – Hazel Ní Chathasaigh

I am a 23 year old physiotherapist currently working at University Hospital Limerick. A proud Gaeilgeoir, I attended Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh and then went on to study physiotherapy at the University of Limerick. I have a particular interest in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and have been fortunate to have a recent piece of research in this area published. With a background in competitive indoor and open water swimming, I represented the University of Limerick at both intervarsities and the Irish Open Championships. From a young age, I have been an avid Munster rugby supporter and I enjoy the atmosphere of Thomond Park on matchday. I play tag rugby in leagues throughout the year and enjoy running and swimming. Other interests include Pilates, aerobics and travel. I am both delighted and honoured to be representing Limerick at the Rose of Tralee International Festival 2018.

LONDON ROSE – GRAINNE HAWKES

I am 26 years old and I work for a global corporate law firm in the City of London. I have a first class honours degree in Law from Trinity College Dublin, a masters in European Law from the College of Europe, Bruges and an Msc in Business and Law from the University of Law, London. As a lifeguard in the National Aquatic Centre throughout school and university, I have been responsible for the lives of US Synchronised Swimming, New Zealand Rugby and Dublin Football teams.  I love disco spinning classes, a day at the races and running a half marathon at least once a year. I like singing, baking and using my languages while travelling. I enjoy supporting my parents’ native Tipperary and Limerick and have played in the European GAA Championships and the Asian Gaelic Games.

LONGFORD ROSE – LOREN LOGAN

I am 22 years old. In recent months, I completed my studies in St. Patrick’s College DCU and have qualified as a Primary School Teacher. I love travelling and believe that travel itself is a great educator. My hobbies include football, drama, singing and dancing. I began studying dance at age four in Shawbrook School of Dance. I completed all grades and performed both nationally and internationally with the touring company ‘Shawbrook Youth Dance’. I have played for my local GAA club Mostrim Ladies for many years and as a young girl I played soccer, representing both my town and county. I also volunteer with the Midland’s Simon Community.

LOUTH ROSE – ANNMARIE DUFFY

I am 27 years old, born and raised in Dundalk and work as a Speech and Language Therapist in Drogheda. I work between a health centre and a specific language unit in a local primary school. My role involves working with children with a range of speech, language and communication needs. I enjoy the creative opportunities and fun that comes with working alongside children. I love to run and I am an active member of my local running club – North East Runners Athletics Club. Running has always been a big part of my family life, with my parents being lifelong athletes. Running allows me to keep fit, challenge myself and unwind. I also enjoy Irish dancing, spending time with family and friends, trying new food, reading and my hot water bottle!

LUXEMBOURG ROSE – AMBER CREAN

I’m 26 years old , born in Dublin and lived in Wicklow and Meath before moving “Wesht” to Galway. I had always planned to move abroad once I completed my Bachelor of Commerce degree and diploma in French at NUI Galway.  I moved to the beautiful “Grand Duchy” in 2014 and it has been my home away from home ever since. I work as a financial auditor with Ernst & Young where I am also involved with our Irish graduate recruitment initiative. When I am not working/protecting the capital markets, you’ll find me on the pitch as the Luxembourg Ladies Gaelic football coach or volunteering with our Club na nÓg. I am a qualified emergency first responder and rescue scuba diver. I have a deep grá for boats and water sports as well as animals, art and baking.

MAYO ROSE – RACHEL GIBBONS

I am a 24 year old Accounts Assistant from a small village called Carnacon in Mayo, and I am living and working in Galway City. I work for JJ Rhatigan & Co Building Contractors as an accounts assistant. I hope to start my professional accounting exams soon and become a fully qualified accountant. I am the youngest of four and have one nephew who is the apple of my eye. We are a very close family and are the best of friends. Our whole family are huge supporters of both our local club, Ballintubber and County Mayo GAA. I am a huge follower of the country music scene and most weekends I will be found at a social dance. I am truly honoured to be selected as the Mayo Rose and to represent my county as it is something I never thought I could achieve. My aim for the year is to promote mental health awareness and to make some lifelong friends.

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