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3 minute read
LUKE EVANS
from GNI MAG ISSUE 66
by GNI MAG
Luke Evans Boy from the Valley From humble beginnings in a Welsh mining village, beloved star Luke Evans shares an inspiring journey through his upbringing and career. Growing up in the Rhymney Valley as a Jehovah’s Witness, Luke felt different and made the bold decision to leave home at seventeen. This led him to London’s Soho, where he discovered his passions for singing and acting, performing in West End productions like Miss Saigon and Rent, before breaking into Hollywood with roles in The Hobbit and Beauty and the Beast. In his intimate memoir, Luke reflects on his family relationships and their mutual respect for one another’s paths. His story is one of resilience and the quest for belonging, serving as a true inspiration.
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Podcast
Mad, Bad, Sad - Singer
Paloma Faith’s new podcast features episodes that are loosely structured around her asking celebrity guests about their experiences of feeling mad, sad, or bad. The interviews take place in Faith’s home, on a semicircular leopardprint settee. If you’re curious to see it, check out her YouTube channel. So far, she has welcomed guests like Alan Carr and Mel B. Each episode is around 30 minutes long, including the guest ringing the bell and Faith’s welcoming remarks.
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Pilates Classes
Lisa Parry Physio and Pilates - Reformer Pilates became a hot trend in 2025, but those dynamic moves can be intimidating for beginners. That’s where LP Physiotherapy and Pilates come in! With ten years of experience in mat Pilates and physiotherapy, she understands the need for a supportive environment for newcomers and those recovering from injuries or postpartum. Now, she offers personalised one-on-one sessions at her clinic, providing tailored guidance for anyone starting their Pilates journey or looking to regain strength.
Web: www.lp-physio. com Instagram: lp.physio. pilates Tel: 07545642285
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Traybakes
Brownies on the Hill are available at over 70 coffee shops and restaurants. Their menu features a wide variety of treats to satisfy every taste, including classic brownies, decadent desserts, and cookies. Each bite is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more— especially their irresistible Biscoff caramel squares! You can purchase their baked goods at their Finaghy store on Saturdays and Sundays, or you can find them at Number 4 First Avenue Coffee Company. Web: www.browniesonthehill. co.uk Instagram: browniesonthehill
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Coffee shop
First Avenue Coffee Company - Coffee lovers will enjoy Meticulous Coffee’s house blend made from premium Brazilian arabica beans roasted in Belfast. At First Avenue, every dish is crafted with local ingredients, complemented by sweet treats from Brownies on the Hill bakery.
Located near Ormeau Park in Stramillis, this pet-friendly café offers home-baked goodies and pup cups. Enjoy cosy seating, relax on the outdoor terrace, or work on your laptop in a laid-back atmosphere. With flexible hours and a 25% student discount, there’s always a good time to visit!
Web: www. firstavenuecoffee. co.uk Instagram: firstavenuecoffeeco
Social GroupOut and Active NI is a community sports and social group designed for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies, focused on creating a welcoming and inclusive space. They offer a variety of activities, including hikes, walks, and casual sports, to foster connections and promote health in a safe environment where everyone can be themselves. Instagram: Outandactiveni
Email:outandactiveni. pride@gmail.com
Meetup:https://www. meetup.com/out-activeni/
Music
Alessia Cara has made a significant mark in the music industry, with billions of streams and multiple multiplatinum certifications. She became the first Canadian to win the GRAMMY® Award for ‘Best New Artist,’ highlighting her immense talent.
Gaining fame in 2015 with “Here,” Alessia continues to evolve as an artist. Her latest album, *In The Meantime*, explores her personal experiences and has been praised by outlets like Pitchfork and Rolling Stone, with The New York Times calling it “incisive and introspective.”
Instagram: alessiasmusic
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Instagram account
Dollsonthebrain an account created by comedian Matthew Keith brings retro glamour, modern wit and the word of the day to the masses with every insta post.
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Cleaning Products
Purdy and Figg make natural cleaning products scented with pure essential oils to change how you feel about cleaning forever while making every room of your home smell like a spa without any toxic ingredients.
Web: www.
purdyandfigg.com
Instagram: purdyandfigg Discount Code: £10 off your 1st order if you use this link: www.talkable. com/x/g6ZInt
App
Vinted is on a mission to make the second-hand first choice they want to show you just how great second-hand can be. Sell what you no longer need, or shop unique pieces you won’t find in stores. Vinted is open to everyone who believes that quality items should live long.
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Toilet Roll
Who Gives a Crap?
Long, soft, charitable and wrapped in funky paper! They donate 50% of their profits to build toilets and improve sanitation in the developing world while embracing their roots in toilet humour.
Web: uk.whogivesacrap. org Instagram: whogivesacraptp Dress up your bathroom with our £5 off discount code: Gni Magazine (click on the “Been referred by a friend?” link at the checkout and simply enter our code.)
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New Drink
Sipgood Infusion Drops are revolutionising hydration! Just one drop transforms plain water into a delicious, healthy soft drink, free from added sugars and artificial sweeteners. Enjoy five all-natural fruit flavors, enhanced with electrolytes and vitamins. With every Sipgood drop sold, they donate water to those in need, making your refreshment impactful. Plus, their eco-friendly packaging has 98% less waste compared to traditional drinks. Sign up for our newsletter for a discount and an extra 500ml of water donated on your behalf. Refreshment that gives Web: www. drinksipgood. com Instagram: drinnksipgood