Local Women Magazine Belfast June Edition 2020

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Women Magazines are now frontline who are risking their lives day and daily supported our fundraising efforts. available as digital downloads from our during the Covid-19 crisis.

Many of you contacted us because you are unable to website www.localwomenmagazine.com Like everyone we have been humbled by the work leave your homes and couldn’t get out to buy Local priced at just £1 each. done by NHS workers during this pandemic and we Women - now you can have it delivered digitally For the months of May and June the proceeds from wanted to do whatever we could to support them. direct to your device. the downloads will go directly to the Health Trusts The Local Women team have volunteered their Why not download a copy of Local Women? Tell in Northern Ireland – so, by reading the magazine time to produce the magazines for the five areas your friends to download it too - and let’s raise as online you are supporting the NHS workers on the of the country and our advertisers have fully much money as possible for the NHS!

I’m so ready for things to go back to normal.

Every day I can see little changes, shops beginning to reopen, the roads getting busier, people returning to work.

Things are moving fast now and it’s only a matter of weeks before lockdown will be a distant memory – well, for the time being. Sometimes it feels a bit overwhelming.

Because the uncertainty continues for mums in particular as we ponder a future of part time schooling and a lack of available childcare.

Yes, of course I know, childcare is a problem for both parents not just mums… but I think we all know who the bulk of childcare falls to!

While it’s a blessing to be safe and healthy, the stress and emotional upheaval of keeping children occupied and trying to homeschool sometimes feels like an uphill battle.

There have been days when I haven’t even got dressed, never mind run about the place baking bread and enthusiastically teaching my reluctant son how to count to 100 in French.

There have been weeks when homeschooling has been nonexistent, days of gaming, days of TV, hours, and hours of doing not very much at all.

But we continue. And we try to make sense of this new normal – I hate that expression! I try not to think too far ahead to the autumn term when schools might only open for a few days a week.

Facing the unknown is tough, particularly when it comes to our children. They have missed out on so much already.

But every day things improve; life is moving on. School will return full time one day – won’t it?!

Until next month,

Managing Editor: Kim Kelly, editor@localwomensnews.com Business Editor: Gillian Anderson, editorcol@localwomensnews.com Design: design@localwomensnews.com Sales: salesmid@localwomensnews.com Accounts: accounts@localwomensnews.com

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THE LESSONS LEARNT…FROM MUM Castlederg’s Johann Muldoon tells Local Women how the unwavering support she received from her mum Patricia set her on the road to success and inspired her to set up an online forum where women can support each other.

T

By Lisa Smyth

hey say there is nothing like a mother’s love.

And that is certainly true for the bond between Johann Muldoon and her mum, Patricia.

Growing up in Castlederg, Johann was bullied by her classmates and even picked on by her teachers and through it all, Patricia was her biggest champion.

When Johann was nine, Patricia found the money to pay for her to attend Omagh Academy – setting her on the path to happiness and success.

Over the years, Johann has gone on to prove her doubters wrong and she now juggles her time between raising her three children and taking her Moneymore-based business to a global level.

Despite how busy she is, however, Johann is now channelling her efforts into setting up a charity aimed at helping and empowering women – and unsurprisingly the inspiration for Platform NI is Patricia.

She said: “My mum was such a big influence on me, she was a community psychiatric nurse and she spent her life helping people.

“When I was small, she used to take me out to work with her and she would always explain to me that you should never judge anyone.

“She had unfaltering confidence in me, unfaltering loyalty to me.

“I remember going to a cross country race event when I was 12 and I hated cross country, I’m more of a sprinter, I prefer fast results.

“She said to me, ‘someone has to come first, and it might be you’, and that’s always stuck with me.

8 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Johann became the first woman in Northern Ireland to receive an MBE for architecture

“Everything I’ve done since then; I’ve always thought about what she said to me.”

Tragically, Patricia died when she was just 55 years old, and Johann has felt her loss every day since then.

“It was sudden, she had breast cancer when she was 42 but she had recovered from it and it had never come back,” continued Johann, mum to Conn (5), Erin (4) and two-year-old Jack.

“However, it was oestrogen dependent and they removed her ovaries and her womb, and she went through the menopause very quickly as a result.

“After that she developed epilepsy, it caused quite a few problems, she also had vertigo.

ƒ Johann is constantly inspired by her mum

“Within three months it was the largest private group of its kind in the country and now has over 8,000 members.”

“She was on medication for the epilepsy as it was quite severe and then she had a seizure in her sleep and that’s when she passed away.

So, she started to work towards launching Platform NI.

“It was horrendous, it was the thing I always feared because she was always my safety blanket, when things went wrong, she fixed them, she made things better even just by talking about them.

Johann continued: “I’ve been involved in many groups myself over the years, but there were none that fitted across the board, for those retired, stay at home, business people, professionals, there were all quite specific, but I wanted to give a voice to all women irrelevant of their situation.

“I still feel the loss now, it’s always there, I constantly think about her in some way or another.

“It’s not in a negative way, I’m not sitting around crying, but I’m aware of the loss and what impact she had on my life.”

Johann knew that she wanted to do something to honour her mum, but it wasn’t until the death of a dear friend in September last year that she began to put her plans into action.

“I went to see her in Omagh Hospital, and we spent time together talking about our lives,” said Johann.

“We’d had great fun with each other over the years, we had great stories that will never be told.

“When we were talking, she mentioned ƒ Johann is on a mission to help other women

“The stories which have been shared and the positivity which the group has created, down completely to the women within it, led me to about how I spoke at my mum’s funeral and establish the charity.” she said I could have such great influence It has a number of objectives – in particular, than I think possible.

Johann is keen to address issues relating to “She said it because even though my heart was childcare, retraining, and mental health and breaking, I was able to get up and speak from the well-being. heart about my mum.

“I’m looking forward to seeing change happen “I’d never thought about it in that way and then and being part of the process. when I left, I knew it was the last time I would “I’m working with a number of other women, see her, and I was walking out of the hospital and who are successful, who represent different I was so upset. groups of women, and we’re working to develop “I was thinking about her and my mum, these befriending and support groups. two, wonderful women, who had achieved such “One of them is Maureen Owens, who has wonderful things in their lives, and their stories were being lost, no-one would know how great worked and run two businesses and is also an administrator for Families Moving On, set up they were. after the Omagh bomb.

“It was then that I decided I was going to “They are all amazing women and they’re do something, and I went home and set up a committed to making a difference.

Facebook page called ‘‘The lessons learnt’. ƒ Castlederg woman Patricia Muldoon

“It’s such an exciting time and I’m really excited “I wanted to set up a forum where women could lift each other up, where they could speak about what we will be able to achieve. honestly and support each other.

“People have been saying to me I must be mad “I have always written things down and I because of all the work it’s taking, because I started posting bits and pieces and learning more already have my business and the kids, but I love about Facebook and quite quickly the group proving people wrong. started taking off.”

“It’s even more exciting because it’s a legacy to In fact, Johann was overwhelmed by the success my mum and everything she did for me. of the page, which she said demonstrates the “My job as an architect is about legacy, having unmet need for women across Northern Ireland. children is about legacy and now, so is the charity.”

Local Women Magazine | 9

HOW TO BEAT LOCKDOWN SKIN WITH YOUNIQUE SKIN RITUAL DAYS THE EXPERTS AT YOUNIQUE AESTHETICS ARE HERE WITH SKIN RITUAL DAYS TO KEEP YOUR SKIN LOOKING GOOD WHILE NORMAL LIFE IS DISRUPTED.

boredom and for comfort. Being at home so much also can mean we are increasing the time we spend with our electronic devices.

“Tablets, computers and phone screens create damaging radiation that is reflected back on to our skin.”

Aileen, Younique’s senior skin therapist, says the stress of being in lockdown and having normal routines changed could also be behind skin problems.

She says: “Bad skin is often caused by stress. Your body creates cortisol under stress (especially stress you have no control over) which in turn leads to oily skin and break outs, also swelling and rashes.

When lockdown was announced, many of us thought it would be a chance to give our skin a break. No make-up for weeks, more opportunity for sleep, less exposure to pollution without the daily commute.

Surely, we should all be glowing and dewy by now?

in our skin and it can be upsetting to see all our hard work go down the drain.

So, our Younique experts are here to explain the phenomenon of ‘lockdown skin’ – and help But, judging by the social media messages us understand why being coming through about your skin concerns inside and doing nothing and asking about products on our online isn’t necessarily the best shop, it seems it hasn’t quite worked out thing for our beauty regimes. like that for a lot of us!

Aine, Younique’s Clinical Loads of us are actually finding that our skin Director, says diet could be is breaking out, and is oily, dull or dry during one of the key culprits. lockdown. This is an added stress that we She says: “More people really don’t need right now. I’m sure you are likely to be snacking due to will agree, a lot of us have invested heavily

She also agrees “Poor diet is another significant factor. What many people do not realise is that the gut and the skin are interconnected. If you are overeating or stress eating this can often lead to eczema and rosacea.”

Another key issue that Aileen highlights is potential dehydration. Are you drinking enough water now you are working from home? And are you drinking the right kinds of liquids?

“Dehydration can be from two factors; not drinking enough water and drinking too many cups of coffee, tea or sugary beverages which will dehydrate your

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skin,” says Aileen

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“If dehydration is your issue, have a bottle of water by your bed – as soon as you get up drink it, use a water app to remind yourself to drink water and don’t ignore it,” she adds. “Replace tea with hot lemon water.”

As well as making a big effort to stay hydrated, there are other things you can do to try to limit the effects of ‘lockdown skin.’

During lockdown Aine says we should be avoiding too much refined sugar and chocolate, because they will dehydrate the skin and can cause breakouts.

She says: “Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, they will nourish your skin with a lot of vitamins, also eating plenty of dried fruits will help because of their high fibre content and antioxidants.”

“Please make sure you are protecting your skin with a combination of Vitamin C and SPF to bounce back more than 80% of UV rays,” she adds. “Despite some people having very limited time outside, make sure you use at least factor 40+ on your skin as the UV rays coming from the windows are enough to age your skin and create pigmentation.”

Aine says that the extra time at home may also make people head to the garden to make the most of the sunshine.

“Sunshine is a fantastic source of vitamin D, but never sit out without protecting your skin from the UV rays and try to avoid sitting for periods of 30 minutes or longer between 11am and 2pm.”

Make the most of self-isolation to work on your skin texture. Aine recommends using a prescribed medical grade retinol once or twice a week, for optimum results.

“This accelerates new skin production. Even if we peel and have redness, we don’t have any events or parties to attend.”

It is important to use SPF protection alongside retinol products and start with a low concentration.

Aine adds that lockdown is a great opportunity to work on your overall wellbeing, which can help to make your skin better too.

“Relax and make time for meditation and exercise,” she says.

“Your skin will thank you for it! Trust me.”

The Younique Ambassadors are working hard at home with their special skin ritual skincare kits, which can all be purchased on the Younique’s Online Shop and delivered free of charge to the safety of your home.

Younique’s ambassadors are: Talented beauty, Jordan Humphries from Q Radio, who will be using the AlumierMD collection.

Online sensation and owner of Sugar Coating Nails, Ingrid Graham, who will be using the Younique Clinical kit.

International business woman, Gemma Garrett, who will be using SkinCeuticals products.

These ladies will share the success of their skincare journey with you. All you have to do is follow them on their social media pages to find out how they are getting their glow on during lockdown.

And to help you on your lockdown journey, we are giving you the chance to win the skincare kit used by your favourite ambassador.

Simply go to Younique’s social media platforms and look for the #youniqueselfcareskincare competition.

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THANK YOU TO OUR

NHS HEROES

As things slowly get back to normality, Local Women Magazine pays tribute to the wonderful health care professionals in our communities who have worked tirelessly to keep us all safe during the pandemic. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Local Women Magazine | 13

“THERE ARE SO MANY UNSUNG HEROES”

For Glengormley nurse Linsey Sheerin, working through the pandemic was a surreal time but one she found extremely rewarding.

It is International Year of the Nurse, but at the start of 2020 Linsey Sheerin wasn’t expecting any congratulations or praise for the job she loves.

ƒ Linsey Sheerin from Glengormley

Who would have believed that just a few months later, nurses and other NHS workers would be receiving rounds of applause on doorsteps across the nation?

Mum-of-one Linsey from Glengormley, who is Service Manager at the Emergency Department of the Royal Victoria Hospital, has always enjoyed being a nurse. And she says she is proud to have been part of a team that worked full time under intense conditions during the pandemic.

She explains: “If one good thing comes out of this, it is that nurses and health care professionals are getting the long overdue recognition they deserve.

“I have never witnessed such dedication and teamwork and it makes me so proud.”

Like all of us, it was in January when Linsey first began to hear rumours about the Covid-19 pandemic sweeping China.

Towards the end of that month there were serious concerns that it was only a matter of time before it hit Northern Ireland.

“We monitored the situation, but it didn’t

seem real until we saw it in Italy. At that point we knew we had to get ready.

“We started to learn more about the virus, and we received training and took part in simulations.

Everything swung into action very quickly. There are so many unsung heroes who worked round the clock to reconfigure the department to adhere to social distancing and to enable us to isolate people presenting with symptoms.”

As the department geared up for the big changes about to happen, at home Linsey had to explain to her daughter Zoe that if things got bad, she might not be coming home for a long time.

“At first there was such a sense of the unknown.

No one knew what was going to happen. We were preparing for something, but we didn’t know what was going to happen. The waiting was hard, it made us all feel very anxious.

ƒ Linsey with her daughter Zoe and husband Neil 14 | Local Women Magazine

“I had to explain to my daughter that I might have to stay at the hospital. In work we all made preparations for that. No one knew if we would

have to sleep at the hospital or what was going to happen.”

The anxiety experienced by the staff was also felt by patients. Many people attended hospital as they were convinced, they were displaying symptoms of Covid.

“All the anxiety was heightened by having to get used to the full PPE that was now required.

It’s very different working with colleagues in PPE as often you don’t even recognise them and communicating can be an issue.

“Waiting for the storm to hit was tough but we were prepared. We got used to the new way of working.

“Our team became closer and, in fact, we became closer with many of the other staff in the hospital. We became like a family.

“Everyone pulled together and, although it was surreal, we got used to the new normal.

“Right now, there is still a lot of work to do. We are busier than ever, and the work continues.

“People can be reassured that if there is a second wave, we are ready. This time we will be even more prepared and can deal with whatever is thrown at us.”

“CARING DOESN’T FEEL LIKE WORK”

Rathfriland Domiciliary Care Worker, Susanne McCabe, has been working hard during the pandemic keeping her clients safe and now she is training to be a nurse. that everything was going to be okay.

Some people are born to be in a caring profession and Susanne McCabe from Rathfriland is a wonderful example of a true professional.

“Some of the older people were very anxious about what was going to happen. They were worried we weren’t going to come out to them anymore. I had to reassure them that we would be continuing with their care.

Having worked as a Domiciliary Care Worker throughout the pandemic, the 20-year-old is now planning on becoming a nurse.

Susanne works in the community with elderly clients and those with physical and mental disabilities, delivering care plans.

ƒ Susanne and her family

However, she sees her role as more than just a job and has built relationships with her clients who she describes as “like a family.”

“There are changes of course. It takes longer to get ready to go into a house because you have to change completely into PPE. It cuts back on the time we have with our clients, but we have to stay safe “It was important that I did my best for my clients. Over the years I have grown so attached to many of them. I just want them to feel comfortable and not to worry.”

Susanne says: “I can honestly say I love my job.

I wouldn’t want to do anything else.

Susanne’s work has inspired her to start studying for a nursing degree and she will be following in the footsteps of her mum Colleen who has been nursing throughout the crisis.

“Throughout the pandemic it’s been hard watching my friends all off on furlough while I have often worked seven days a week. But I don’t mind really. I l love what I do.”

But she intends to combine her work as a carer with her Open University degree.

When Susanne left school, she knew she wanted to go into a caring profession, but she didn’t want to go to university.

“I wouldn’t want to go to college full time, I want to continue working as I enjoy my job.

“I wanted to get started straight away. I found my job as a Domiciliary Care Worker and have never looked back.

“Most days it doesn’t feel like a job. I visit lots of regular clients and I have built up an amazing relationship with many of them. I love helping and making people feel safe.

It’s the perfect job for me.”

“It can be tough, but it is so rewarding. During the pandemic people have finally seen what carers like me do. We don’t get credit very often, so it was nice to be appreciated.

“However, the work itself is so worthwhile that it is reward enough.”

But of course, Coronavirus has made Susanne’s job more difficult and she has had to adapt to lot of new safety measure to keep herself and her clients safe.

Many of her clients are in vulnerable groups and so she has to wear PPE and received training on new safety protocols.

ƒ Susanne McCabe from Rathfriland

And, while she was anxious about the threat of the virus, she knew she had to reassure her clients

ƒ Susanne can’t wait for lockdown to end Local Women Magazine | 15

“I’M PRIVILEGED TO BE PART OF A FRONTLINE TEAM” Ballymoney nurse Colleen Morrison joined in the frontline battle against Covid-19 when she provided support to care homes.

If you had told Colleen Morrison at the start of the year that by April she would be working back on the frontline in a residential home, she wouldn’t have believed you.

But for the dedicated Ballymoney Community Manager, the Covid-19 crisis has seen her move back into frontline nursing and, although it has been a tough time, she describes her new role as a ‘privilege’.

Before the pandemic, the nurse of almost 40 years was working in a community management role, overseeing a team of health and social care professionals in the Ballymena and Antrim area.

Although she found her job rewarding, it was a far cry from the busy days on the ward she remembered as a trainee nurse back in 1983.

Colleen, 58, was able to use everything she had learned on the wards and community over the years, plus her extensive management experience, to play her part in the fight against Coronavirus in the care home sector.

When it was revealed that care homes needed support to fight the pandemic, Colleen didn’t hesitate to volunteer herself.

She explains: “I knew I needed to go into the homes myself. If I had an elderly relative, I would want to know that they were safe. It was important to see for myself what support the staff needed.”

Mum-of-three Colleen organised a group of fellow health and social care professionals to go into local care homes to help support the staff through the unprecedented crisis.

“I know the amazing work the carers in these care homes do.

They have always gone above and beyond to look after their patients, but no one could have predicted what was about to happen. It was completely overwhelming.

“I wanted to make sure we weren’t taking over; we needed to support their work and find new ways of working to keep staff and residents safe.”

16 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Jessica and Emily with their mum Colleen. Jessica is a doctor working in a Covid Ward (right) and Emily is a chemical engineer (key worker - middle) working on respiratory drugs for a major pharmaceutical company (GSK.)

Over the past few weeks Colleen and her team have been working in various care homes throughout the area to offer help to staff who have been left to cope with a healthcare crisis that no one could have predicted.

Her team including nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, psychology and mental health staff went into the homes to look at all aspects of care.

“Basically, we wrapped a team round each home. Carers have a different job from nurses but we share the common bond of caring and compassion. Many of the carers regard their residents as family and they never hesitate to go above and beyond to look after them.”

“During the Covid period it meant adopting new infection controls and protocols for both staff and patients.”

“Although it has been years since I have been in frontline nursing, it was great to get back in and use my skills to help out. My team were just fantastic.

It is a wonderful example of integrated working and an amazing team effort.”

Colleen has the utmost respect for carers who have been tasked with a very difficult job over the past few weeks and months.

“At no point did we take over, that wasn’t

ƒ Colleen Morrison from Ballymoney

ƒ Colleen’s yeldest daughter Kerry who is married with two boys Charlie and Harry. She is a medical secretary in Causeway Hospital.

our job. We were simply there to support. We had to help the carers adapt to a new normal and deal with the correct use of PPE and increased infection control.

“I am so proud to be part of team that was able to help and do our bit. I feel very proud to be a nurse and it is so heartening see the good work people are doing.

“I would like to reassure people that the situation is under control, and we are ready to go back into the care homes at any time should the situation arise.

“It has been a tough few months but so worthwhile. Community care is a great place to work and I feel this situation has brought out the best in so many people.”

“I AM PROUD TO BE A NURSE”

Inishcarn nurse Patricia McDade’s working life was turned upside down as she set up a Covid Ward at Mid Ulster Hospital to help fight the pandemic.

Managing the Covid Ward at Mid Ulster Hospital has given Patricia McDade a renewed pride in her profession and total appreciation of the wonderful colleagues who are part of her team.

ƒ Patricia with her daughters Kia and Dominique

Pre-pandemic mum-of-two Patricia from Iniscarn near Draperstown worked in management as a lead nurse at Mid Ulster Hospital and looked after a team of health care professionals as well as a 21-bed rehab ward.

But in matter of days, Patricia’s working life was turned upside down as the hospital prepared for the Coronavirus pandemic.

Patricia explains: “It started to gather pace around St Patrick’s Day. Obviously there had been lots of talk about the pandemic but around that time was when we knew things were going to change for us at Mid Ulster.

patient at all times.

“We needed to quickly convert the rehab ward into a Covid Ward. Everything needed stripped out and refitted within a matter of days.

“It all happened so fast. The patients in rehab had to be fast tracked – thankfully most of them were able to return home and we had to get ready for something that we really couldn’t imagine.

“While the refurbishments were being done, we had to carry out training programmes. Some of the people working with us had never worked on a ward before so we adopted a buddy scheme to help them bed in.

“I can honestly say I have never seen such a dedicated team. Every single person working

ƒ Patricia with friends from her running club.

“Obviously with the restrictions on visitors we had to find ways of helping the patients keep connected with their families and we used iPads and Zoom calls so they could communicate. ƒ Patricia McDade from Iniscarn

on that ward was vital from domestics, porters, nurses and doctors.

“Everyone pulled together so well, and nothing was too much trouble. It was a difficult time but there was something uplifting about seeing people working together for the good.”

During the months of May and June, the Covid Ward at Mid Ulster became busy. And Patricia says it was teamwork that pulled them through those dark days.

“We became like a family and I am delighted that we had so many success stories coming out of that ward. Covid is such a terrible illness.

Everything happens so fast. A patient would be fine in the morning, maybe with just a loss of appetite. By teatime they would have gone down badly. It comes on so fast which means added pressure on staff who need to be with the

Every nurse does their best. We all think, ‘what if this patient was my mum?’ And it helps us to be the best we can.”

Patricia says she is proud to be a nurse and honoured that she and her team were able to run the ward. However, as the situation improves, she says she would like to see the ward return to a rehab facility.

“I am confident that if a second wave comes, we are ready. I feel well prepared. We were able to act very quickly last time so now we know exactly what needs done.

“I had tremendous support from my senior management team in particular director Phil Hughes, A/D Karen Harvey and Wendy Longshawe and I can’t thank them enough.

“Now, I would very much like to get back to normal and while the situation is not over, I would like to urge people to be calm and sensible.

“We are in control now and I am proud to say that I am a small part of the team that helped.”

Local Women Magazine | 17

“THE GREATEST CHALLENGE OF MY NURSING CAREER”

Staff Nurse at Altnagelvin’s Cardiology Ward, Lyndsey Nelis, has worked hard throughout the Covid-19 crisis keeping her patients safe.

It was spring when Lyndsey Nelis from Derry realised that she was about to face the biggest challenge of her nursing career.

ƒ The rainbow of hope wall done by all the children of cardiology staff

As news of the Covid-19 pandemic spread across the nation, and in particular the dreadful news coming Italy where mortality rates were rocketing, it was clear this new virus was getting closer to home.

Lyndsey says: “I knew it was only a matter of time before I was about to be fast tracked into the biggest challenge of my nursing career to date.”

Working in an acute cardiology setting has its fair share of challenges on an average day, but Lyndsey says that what the ward experienced earlier this year was something completely different.

It was a steep learning curve - they had no previous experience of Covid-19 or how to manage it, no way of knowing how quickly it was spreading, no previous experience of how to swab patients for Covid, but most importantly for Lyndsey and her colleagues, they had no previous experience of how to manage a cardiac arrest in this situation.

ƒ Lyndsey and husband Ronan

18 | Local Women Magazine

Thankfully the decision was made for all staff to take showers before and after work, wash their hair after every shift before going home and to change clothes and shoes before leaving the ward to help minimise the spread and everyone adhered to these new set of rules.

As the situation unfolded, policies and procedures on the way to care for patients changed rapidly, sometimes on a daily basis, adding to the general stress on the ward. ƒ Lyndsey, Ronan and Dáirsaí.

Patients were no longer allowed to have face Lyndsey explains: “Cardiac arrest is a scenario to face contact with family members which was which can be chaotic at the best of times and a another added pressure on staff. rapid response is essential for keeping a patient “Morale was low, and patients were frightened. alive or bringing them back to life. This scenario As a ward everyone worked together and now came with a lot of new challenges, on and protected each other to make the ward was a off the ward. safe environment for our patients.

“There was a great fear, that even though I would be wearing PPE at work, I could still bring the “I could not be prouder of the cardiology team virus home to my family or pass it on to vulnerable I am part of. Behind every good team is a great leader and ours is Sister Marie McGrellis who members of the community. from day one made sure the ward had everything “At one point the option to leave my husband it needed to get through this pandemic, with and child and stay in temporary accommodation patient and staff safety her main goal. was suggested. At a time of such uncertainty, the last place I wanted to be was away from my “It feels great to say we have survived and if a nearest and dearest, but I didn’t want to make second wave is to come, we know our cardiology ward is ready to survive it once again.” them ill either.”

Brighter days are coming, so it’s the perfect time to introduce a little pink into our colour schemes, with accents of blush and splashes of fuschia.

Hi everyone, It’s been another month in lockdown which is tough for us all – but on the upside at least we have plenty of time to have a look at our homes and contemplate how we would like to change them.

There’s nothing quite like spending 24 hours a day in your house to make you decide that you need new colour palettes.

This month to cheer us all up I am introducing pink into my schemes – it is such an uplifting colour and one I know lots of people adore.

So many people ask me for pink in their colour schemes – it never seems to go out of fashion and retains its popularity.

been designed for my clients, they love pink and

But a note of caution, there is a fine line between stylish accents of rose, salmon and coral and a Barbie palace!

Pink is such a nice colour to team up with grey and white. I love mixing different textures and fabrics in my design projects to create depth and tone.

For the perfect backdrop, wallpapers by Designers Guild, Casamance and Tim Wiman are gorgeous.

Paint colour is important, as there are 50 plus shades of grey to choose from - it’s important to get a grey that suits the pink you love and has the right tone.

Colour consultations are so important at the initial stages and will save time and money. It’s good to invest and get it planned out and perfect for you as a base.

as you can see,

it doesn’t have to be confined to a bedroom and

can

be

used

throughout your home.

Pink gives any room a boost and reminds us that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Looking to the future, my new studio in Lisburn is opening as soon as it’s safe to go back out and I can’t wait to get started on this new project.

Currently I am working from home and can provide you with a full interior home consultation to give your home a new look when lockdown ends.

Looking forward to welcoming you all back soon.

Everything you see in the pictures has

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22 | Local Women Magazine

“TRUST THE WAIT, EMBRACE THE UNCERTAINTY. WHEN NOTHING IS CERTAIN, ANYTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE.”

As lockdown eases Local Women columnist and blogger Hollie Campbell urges a little patience and self-reflection.

Change can be risky, it can be difficult, but it grateful etc. Many of us lost our jobs, many of can also be beautiful, and it will always show us struggled, but as the weeks went by, I kept reminding myself I’m healthy and I’m alive. you more of yourself.

From March we began to appreciate our health care workers more so than we ever did, we saw every health care and social care workers as our hero’s, not the pop stars or the footballers and the other multi-millionaires.

We went through all the feelings - confused, We saw our neighbours, our friends, family worried, annoyed, angry, happy, thankful, members and people in our local community as the real hero’s in the world! I sincerely hope this stays this way and it is a pity it took a global pandemic to realise this, but may we never forget it.

From March all of our lives changed - it didn’t matter how rich you were, how poor you were or what size of house you lived in, your life changed in some way. It was out of our control and there was nothing any of us could do.

I myself worked in a care home as part of my HND care practice course (work experience) years ago. As part of my course I worked for six weeks in the setting and I continued it after part time for several months. I left that place a different person - the respect and dignity that I felt for every care worker in those care homes safe, be patient and let’s look forward to a was very different to before. I’ve never been in better future. a job so tough but also so rewarding.

Love I am a blood donor and have been for many years now. An extremely rewarding and free thing to do for many others. Every time I donate, I think, “how many lives did my blood just save?” Please consider becoming one - it’s the most amazing feeling.

It’s a good way of saying thank you to all our health care workers and to everyone in general as it is going to help someone somewhere.

Someone’s child, someone’s daddy or mummy.

There are better times ahead, for now, keep

Check out my website at

www.holliecampbell.com Contact me at holliecampbellblog@gmail.com Local Women Magazine | 23

Catriona Channing, owner of Blades & Beauty salon in Antrim, has been spending her time during lockdown looking back on happy memories as well as looking to the future.

I hope everyone is keeping well - this is a strange time for us all.

I cannot wait until I get back to the salon and I can also return to my work in the fashion industry. I am looking forward to seeing my staff and customers and creative friends and hearing their stories.

During this time, I have tried to help local support groups, charities, and churches in my local community, and it has helped me feel like I am doing something productive to help fight this virus.

One of the positives that come out of this situation is I get to spend more time with my family, notice little things I been too busy to see before.

I always been too busy to take a moment and think of the journey I have taken over the years with my staff and to be honest it is quite remarkable.

Catriona and Katie at Top Model in London

professionals in all walks of life - media, production, fashion and music and massive brands.

My family have put up with me travelling and working so much. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart.

I been so lucky to have the support of my customers and

When this is all over, I do not think I will ever take things for granted again, my lifestyle and the loving people I have who surround me. I realise how lucky I am and how far my husband and I have come as a couple, working together to make a life for our children.

I am deeply grateful so far that we have been able to ride out this storm as many have not and I feel for them and hope that things get better quickly.

Catriona and Katie at Top Model in London Hair and Makeup by Paula, Blades & Beauty

Maybe this is just a moment for us all to slow down and build something bigger and better than we ever have. I have seen so many people reach out and help others which is remarkable and amazing!

Blades & Beauty will be back, bigger and stronger than it has ever been and I want to do something in the future to help everyone celebrate the fact that we made it, we got through this and we are ok.

My fashion event Collectively Creative will be amazing and at a later date, but it will be a bigger celebration than ever before.

I have always pushed mental health awareness and I hope everyone is taking some time to appreciate how amazing and strong they really are.

Big hugs from me and lots of love.

Stay safe, stay well and I see you all soon.

Everything has been put on hold, but the time will come when we can all work together to rebuild everything.

25 Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim, BT41 4LD T: 028 9446 4434 | E: blades&beauty@gmail.com bladesandbeauty 24 | Local Women Magazine

bladesandbeauty

www.bladesandbeauty.co.uk

A new garden for the Instant kerb appeal summer months... with a driveway from Tobermore Do you wish you had a garden to enjoy during the spring and summer months, for outdoor dining or for children to play safely? The idea of revamping your garden can be exciting but where do you start? Take a look at our hints and tips for getting your new garden project underway.

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Find inspiration for the style of garden you like: Browse magazines, Pinterest, Instagram or create a ‘My Favourites’ folder using Tobermore’s inspiration gallery.

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consider the Tobermore EasyClean range – EasyClean paving resists staining from infiltrating the paving surface so that spills can be simply wiped away.

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Think about who will be using your garden. Do you need a play area for children or grandchildren? And do you need to consider an area for animals? You may want to screen off

unsightly items such as an oil tank, coal bunker or bins Think about creating a feature or focal point?

Why not think about including a feature such as a circle in your paving, a path, or create a fire pit using Tobermore’s

Secura Lite walling.

Are you looking to include some floral features in your

for patios you can use block paving or patio flags. The choice is yours!

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What can I do with a small garden?

There are lots of options

to make the most of a small garden. You can make a

garden?

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Incorporate some raised beds which can be easily

upgrading it with some decorative paving. Consider linking paths

constructed using Tobermore’s walling range. This will also help add colour and character to your outside space.

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Will your area be used to park a car or just as a garden patio?

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are most suitable for your project; for driveways use block paving,

and steps within your garden to create unique areas of interest.

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I don’t know where to start!

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Local Women Magazine | 27

“LOOK AFTER YOURSELVES – AND MOISTURISE!” Natacha McMahon from Changing Faces By Natacha is looking to the future and can’t wait to welcome back her clients when Lockdown ends.

I

t has been a strange few weeks for everyone, but while we have been in Lockdown, semipermanent make up artist and facialist, Natacha McMahon has been working hard to ensure her clients are looking after themselves.

Natacha, who owns Changing Faces By Natacha, is in demand across the country for her microneedling skills, as well as her semipermanent make up work - and her clients cannot wait until it is business as usual again.

While she has been unable to work, Natacha has been keeping in touch with her clients via social media and she makes sure to answer every message she receives.

And she has already got a lengthy waiting list for when Lockdown is eased, and she cannot wait to get back to work.

She says: “I’m really looking forward to welcoming back my clients. Many of them have become friends over the years and I am really missing them.

“I know it’s difficult for those clients who are used to having microneedling once a month, but I tell them all the same thing – keep moisturising!

“And my permanent make up clients have all been warned to use a strong SPF because we have had such sunny weather. The bright sun can fade semipermanent make up - so wear your sunscreen.

“Just because you can’t get in to see me doesn’t mean you can ease up on your home skincare.

Look after your skin and I will get all your treatments sorted as soon as I can!”

Meanwhile Natacha has used her free time to study new government guidelines on social distancing and hygiene which she will incorporate

into her working practices.

Hygiene and safety have always been top of Natacha’s salon protocols and she recently took a course on new sanitation and disinfection practices.

She is now fully up to date on all the new legislation and is ready to get back to work as soon as it is safe to do so.

Natacha has also used this period of Lockdown to become more fit and healthy. She has been walking and running and getting out and about in the fresh air.

She said: “I have made the most of the lovely weather and I would encourage all my clients to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Your mental health is so important at this time. We need to look after ourselves.”

Payment Plans & Gift Vouchers Available

Semi-Permanent Make-up Artist & Micro Needling Specialist T: 078 9404 9928 | E: changingfacesbynatacha@gmail.com Keep an eye on our social media for upcoming courses.

Laura & Stephen A Love Story galgorm.com

Looking good and feeling great with Lyndsey As a beautician Lyndsey Milligan from Lushious Luxuries Beauty Salon is an expert at making customers look good - and now she is using her experiences of living with chronic pain to help people feel better too.

A

By Kim Kelly

s she lay in bed for weeks on end suffering from intense pain and absolute exhaustion, Lyndsey Milligan could never have dared to believe that one day she would lead a normal life, never mind run her own successful business.

As the owner of popular salon Lushious Luxuries on Castlereagh Road, few would think that Lyndsey has suffered with a terrible health condition that she says nearly drove her over the edge.

With her bubbly personality and cheery professionalism, skincare expert Lyndsey is so upbeat that you simply can’t tell that she still suffers from chronic pain.

For most of her 20s Lyndsey battled with a variety of conditions that left her completely debilitated and unable to work. A diagnosis of an underactive thyroid explained some of her pain but her myriad symptoms were so intense that doctors didn’t know how to treat her and gave her strong painkillers which left her exhausted.

She relied on her husband Thomas to care for her when her illnesses meant that she had to miss work. She was so exhausted she couldn’t walk and was bedridden much of the time She says: “I know when you get married it is ‘in sickness and in health’ but I didn’t expect that within the first few years of marriage my husband would have to be giving me bed baths and running me to 30 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ Lyndsey

appointments when he should have been sleeping after a night shift.

“There were times I thought I would never get better. The depression and pain just became too much and it seemed never ending.”

So desperate was her situation that Lyndsey turned to social media because she felt so isolated and reached out to others in a similar position.

She set up a Facebook group and YouTube channel and talked about living with chronic pain to followers across the world.

“I remember just sitting there on my bed crying and telling my story. People were so kind, and I got lots of messages from people experiencing similar illnesses. The support really helped me.”

Even at her lowest ebb, Lyndsey never gave up hope and with the support of her husband, she made huge efforts to try and get out of the house even for short periods of time.

Doctors gave her pain medication and she tried everything to try and get better.

She explains: “At the time my father in law had pancreatic cancer and the outlook wasn’t good but he gave me such strength.

I used to walk round to his house and take the dog for a short walk. It was a huge effort, but it made me feel so much better.

“I decided as well to start training in beauty therapy and I managed to go to a class one day a week. The effort was huge, but I did it and gradually things improved.”

Lyndsey started working in a salon to gain experience and then set up on her own in Lushious Luxuries.

ƒ Lyndsey

“When I look back at how far I have come I am amazed. I literally couldn’t get out of bed and now I am running my own business.”

“I always wanted to be a beautician and I feel that in some way I can help people.

When I look back at how far I have come I am amazed. I literally couldn’t get out of bed and now I am running my own business. It’s been tough but I hope my Lushious Luxuries a success and she moved story can inspire others who are suffering to her new Castlereagh Road premises two and in pain.” years ago.

Lyndsey continues her online blogging Through her work she has used her and, with over 10,000 people signing experiences of dealing with chronic pain to up to one of her Facebook pages about help others in the same situation. chronic pain, it is clear there is a need for At the salon her emphasis is not only more support.

Over the years Lyndsey has trained in many new beauty techniques to keep her skillset up to date and she is a specialist at skincare, analysing and treating people who suffer from breakouts and painful on looking good but feeling good as well. skin conditions.

Her therapists have trained in a range of Although not cured – she has most massage techniques to help those suffering recently been diagnosed with fibromyalgia from conditions like fibromyalgia.

– Lyndsay has fought her way back to And many of her customers have sought health. She says she is often tired, but she knows to take rests and not to put too much her out after seeing her online where she still writes a blog about her life living with stress on her body. chronic pain.

She is still not completely sure what is She says: “As a therapist my customers wrong with her and has been diagnosed with a range of conditions. She spent a can confide in me and I find that many great deal of time researching her illnesses people are suffering in life both physically and has found a way of living with it, and mentally. although at times it isn’t easy.

Lyndsey

has

worked

hard

to

have succeeded. It’s good for people to know they aren’t alone. Chronic pain and mental health issues are so common these days. We are all in this together and I want people to know that there are others feeling the same way.

Earlier this year she did a fundraising walk on the Comber Greenway to raise money for charity – something that she would never have dreamed possible just a few years previously.

And she has plans to do more fundraising and even hold an event to raise awareness of living with chronic pain.

“I am full of plans. I know I have to take it easy because of my health but I am buzzing with ideas.”

Here at Local Women we can’t wait to see “If coming here for a treatment and a what this amazing lady does next – good make chat can make them feel better, then I luck Lyndsey!

Local Women Magazine | 31

ƒ Leah White

FAMILY IS EVERYTHING…

As co-owner of the Secret Day Spa in Belfast, Leah White knows a thing or two about beauty and business. But it’s her new role as a mum which is bringing her most joy, as she tells Maureen Coleman

F

amily has always been of the utmost importance to awardwinning Belfast beauty therapist

and businesswoman Leah White.

With a background in management, she

retrained in beauty therapy and along with sister Lynsey Bennett, a former advertising sales rep, the pair plunged into business with 32 | Local Women Magazine

“I want to show other women

the opening of the Secret Day Spa in the east of the city.

in your life to be fulfilled or

Since then the sisters have turned the salon into a hugely successful urban spa – a place of pampering and relaxation in the heart of the Belmont Road.

possible to go it alone.”

In addition to the spa, Leah and Lynsey have put their business acumen to good use

that you don’t need a man to be a mum. It’s absolutely

While Lynsey is now mum to eight-year-old twin girls Sophia and Scarlett, Leah took a different route to motherhood, going it alone to adopt a little girl from Thailand. And that, says Leah, is her proudest achievement.

“Much has happened since we first opened the doors of the Secret Day Spa 11 years ago,” Leah, this month’s Belfast cover girl, says.

“The salon is doing really well, the products have been internationally successful and myself and Lynsey have become mums.

“I always wanted to be a mum and always knew I was going to go abroad and adopt. Just because I am single doesn’t mean I don’t get the chance to experience motherhood.

“The entire adoption process took three years and now I have my beautiful little girl Isabella, who’s seven years old. I didn’t meet her beforehand, but the authorities match you with the child they think is perfect for ƒ Leah with Isabella. you and I was given a photograph of her absolutely possible to go it alone.” before we met.

Running the salon while raising a child does have its challenges, Leah admits, but with her family around her to support her and a team of 12 therapists to help out, things are ticking along nicely. Thanks to the reliability of her staff, she was able to take a week off after Christmas to spend with her daughter and As ever, family support was crucial to Leah was able to give her a ‘magical’ experience. when she was going through the adoption “Christmas isn’t celebrated in Thailand so process. Lynsey accompanied Leah to Thailand, with the twins, who quickly took to Isabella had never seen Santa or a stocking their new cousin. Sarah and her son Zach, 10, before,” Leah says. “We had such a lovely also flew out to join them for a while to get to time and then I took her to the Scottish meet Isabella before she relocated to her new Highlands for a few days so she could see snow, but it failed to snow there for the first Belfast home. time in 60 years!

Leah said she told all her clients in advance “There was a bit on the top of the mountains about her plans to adopt and everyone was though, so she did get to see that.” delighted for her.

“I went out to Thailand in March last year and I fell in love with her straight away after meeting her for the first time. I stayed there for 10 weeks, bringing her home to Belfast at the end of May. It’s been heaven ever since.

Being her mum is amazing.”

While both Lynsey and Leah have been busy And already Isabella has settled well into her new life, despite the fact she spoke no enjoying motherhood, they have also watched their business go from strength to strength.

English at all.

As well as winning Local Women’s Salon of “She loves it here,” Leah says. “She the Year award and Day Spa of the Year at goes to Penrhyn, the prep department of the Make-up and Beauty Awards, the girls Strathearn, and there are only 14 in her have been building on the success of their class, so she’s picking things up really signature products, Lusso Tan and the Bath quickly and doing very well. ƒ Leah with her sisters Sarah and Lynsey Bomb. They are also about to launch a new “To begin with she couldn’t speak one word one for Mother’s Day, a pink floral bath bomb with the launch of their own global products of English. Now she’s chatting away with a bit which will remove tan. For every bath bomb Lusso Tan, which they co-own with a third of a Belfast accent. sold, 47p will go towards Mencap, a charity sister, Sarah White, and the revolutionary tan“The twins are in the year above her and close to the sisters’ hearts as brother Conor removing Bath Bomb. are protective of her. She’s really happy and has spina bifida.

But it’s not just their professional lives which fitting in well.

“It’s great that the Secret Day Spa continues “I’m so glad I’ve done this, and I want to to be such a successful salon but at the end of opened the Secret Day Spa in June 2009, as show other women that you don’t need a man the day, family is the most important thing,” both have become mothers since then. in your life to be fulfilled or to be a mum. It’s says Leah. have seen big changes since the siblings

Local Women Magazine | 33

FIGHT OF

HER LIFE

Northern Ireland’s only professional boxer Cathy McAleer tells Local Women how learning to fight against the school bullies led her on her winning path.

C

By Gail Bell

ƒ Cathy

athy McAleer’s mouth is numb and, frustratingly, she can’t talk - but, thankfully, it’s nothing to do with boxing. She’s just been to the dentist to have a tooth extracted, jokingly describing the experience as “much worse” than being in the ring.

Always ready to fight her corner, the petite Belfast boxer is on bouncing form these days, after winning her fourth professional fight in Birmingham last month. The 41 year-old bantamweight defeated Bulgaria’s Teodora Hristova at Aston Villa Football Club’s Holte Suite and believes, with the help of new manager, Kellie Maloney, she is now well on her way to winning another world title.

It’s certainly not an unreachable goal for the gutsy owner of MAC FIT and Beauty in Belfast, having already conquered the worlds of karate questioning her decision to box to the top. and kickboxing: she is a former world champion

“I was feeling a bit deflated at that time, but I had in both disciplines and runs two karate schools in the legendary boxing trainer, John Breen, believing Holywood and Belfast, nurturing up-and-coming in me, so that kept me going,” she recalls. “Then, Karate Kids of the future.

Kellie agreed to be my promoter and manager and

Surprisingly, though, Northern Ireland’s only when I signed a two-year sponsorship deal with female professional boxer is a relative newcomer online car insurance brand, its4women…well, to the sport and just pulled on a pair of boxing things seemed back on track.” gloves with serious intent, less than two years ago.

Cathy travelled to Birmingham at the end of

She made a sensational debut in 2018, winning February with an “electric crowd of support”, and all three professional bouts – and becoming although feeling nervous at the start, in case she let the first woman to fight at the Ulster Hall in 18 Kellie, John and her entire Northern Ireland fan base years in the process - but, after cancellations and down, she needn’t have worried. “When I walked promoters letting her down, she found herself out, the crowd lifted the roof and I totally loved ƒ Cathy and Kellie 34 | Local Women Magazine

ƒ In the ring

one at the back of the class with no rhythm and not having a clue what was going on...”

She still doesn’t dance, but loves getting dressed up and going out – much to her surprise, she found herself at ‘beauty school’, learning how to give facials and microdermabrasion, primarily as an extra dimension to her business which she runs from her Knock Road home.

“I never saw myself as a beauty therapist,” she the experience,” she enthuses. “It was Kellie’s big muses, “but clients were asking about massages comeback into boxing too, so it was quite a night.” after training, so I learned to do them. Then they asked, ‘Do you do facials?’, so I thought I should Before the Birmingham bout, we met for a chat at maybe offer them too. In ‘beauty school’, I was the her usual sparring space at Breen’s Gym in Westlink only one in a tracksuit and I stuck out like a sore Enterprise Centre where the talented athlete soon thumb, but I did enjoy the work and it has proved punched the ‘stereoptypical’ fighter image into the a good fit with personal training.” shadows. She is quick-witted and authoritative, An interest in make-up is something Cathy now but there is a gentleness and empathy there too, shares with new promoter and manager, Kellie, alongside a genuine respect for people – whether formerly Frank Maloney, the renowned boxing inside or outside the ring.

Focus and determination are never in question – she worked as a general manager for the former Virgin Active gym in Holywood before opening the MAC brand – but she hates to think she might actually hurt anyone in the name of sport.

“I have respect for the other person, so I’d be the first over, checking they are okay,” she confides.

“People think boxing is about aggression, but it’s about two skilled people in the ring, doing a sport they are passionate about. It’s about being smart, tactical and only moving when the time is right. If you’re aggressive, you’ll burn out and never last the rounds. A smarter fighter tends to be the one who wins.”

Cathy has always played ‘smart’, whether wheedling her primary school PE teacher for a chance to play on the boys’ football team (he gave in eventually and let her join the boys-only team at St Michael’s PS on the Ravenhill Road) or working her way up to management level after joining Virgin Active as receptionist, following a degree in Sports Marketing at the University of Stirling, Scotland.

A “very shy and timid child” at school, she first turned to karate after being beaten up for “wearing the wrong uniform in the wrong park” as a wide-eyed eight year-old. It was a traumatic experience which left its mark, literally (half her hair “was missing” afterwards) and has made her even more passionate about helping young people in her karate school to fight back against the bullies in 2020.

“After that incident, my wee brother went to karate lessons and I wanted to go too, but my dad – who is very ‘old school’ – initially said, ‘Girls don’t fight,’” she says. “I was always very sporty, although my mum tried to get me into tap dancing with my sisters, but it didn’t work out. I was the

“I do a lot of work

with people who have eating disorders or

ƒ With Kellie and trainer John Breen.

would even consider making a comeback in boxing as my manager.

depression and with

“She phoned me back 48 hours later and said she had reapplied for her manager’s licence. I was jumping around the kitchen. Then, three weeks later, she phoned to invite me to the awards and to say ‘Our journey begins...’

involved with drugs

Today, while Cathy is embracing the challenge of another world sporting title, she is also quietly helping children and adults achieve goals of their own.

kids who have been and whose parents

“I do a lot of work with people who have eating disorders or depression and with kids who have been involved with drugs and whose parents ring me up for help,” she says. “Whatever the problem, I find that when someone hits the boxing pads, promoter who underwent gender reassignment they de-stress and get rid of anger and aggression. surgery in 2015.

They often just need a focus – if you have a goal “I have great rapport with Kellie, who I only and challenge you’ll just do it. I love seeing people met for the first time when she was having her better themselves and have a better life.” make-up done before the BT Sports Awards in Training young people in her Northern Ireland London last year,” Cathy reveals. “I had had a Karate School, along with her work as a personal few disappointments and I had randomly tweeted trainer and beautician, all make for a “crazy life,” Kellie to see if she could offer any advice... or if she but when she does get some free time, she will walk her “big softie” Samoyed dog and schedule in important coffee dates with her mum who is recovering from two mini strokes.

ring me up for help.”

ƒ Cathy’s support team.

“Mum loves coming to the fights when she can, but my dad still can’t bear to watch me fight although, he will ask my brothers and sisters for a video of it afterwards,” Cathy adds, laughing.

“People ask how I juggle everything, and I really don’t know, but it’s not genetic. None of my family play sport and they wonder where I get this drive from. I’ve no idea why I’m like this, but I can’t wait to see where it goes.”

Local Women Magazine | 35

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS FOR ZOE As she marks the 20th anniversary of winning Miss Northern Ireland, Zoe Salmon looks back on her reign and tells Local Women how love is helping her cope with the heartbreak of loss.

I

BY MAUREEN COLEMAN t’s hard to believe that 20 years have gone by since Bangor beauty Zoe Salmon was

crowned Miss Northern Ireland.

Since then, the former Blue Peter presenter, who’s barely aged and is still fresh-faced and glowing, has maintained an interest and involvement in the competition, returning most years as a judge, model or host.

Over the past two decades she has seen the competition change. In 1999, the year she entered and won, the build-up and rehearsals were condensed into a 12-hour period. These days, the girls have a weekend of preparation and more time to get to know the other competitors.

“It was so intense back in 1999, really full on.” she recalls. “It was such a whirlwind situation but great fun. Although the show itself was the highlight, most of the judging was done earlier on that day. It was like a job interview almost, you were having to sell yourself to be Miss Northern Ireland, to represent your country and be a role model.

“But that experience really helped me and I definitely think it gave me more confidence, so I would encourage other girls to enter and give it a go.

“Beauty pageantry is like a special club, a sisterhood and even after all these years, I’m 36 | Local Women Magazine

Zoe and her husband Will.

“My husband Will reminds me of my mum.

He is quiet and kind and has such a nice, caring nature, like she did. She really liked him too and that meant a lot to me.” still in touch with some of the girls, through social media; girls like Orlaith McAllister.

We may not see each other much but that connection is always there. Taking part in Miss Northern Ireland was such a positive experience for me on so many levels.”

Zoe, a qualified solicitor, took time out from law to concentrate on her duties as Miss Northern Ireland during her reign. She believes that both roles – beauty queen and lawyer – helped play a part when it came to securing a high-profile job as a Blue Peter presenter in 2004.

and a chance meeting at the wedding of another former Miss Northern Ireland set the wheels in motion for her eventual return home.

Zoe was a guest at the Castle Leslie nuptials of her pal Catherine Jennings when she was introduced to Newtownards butcher Will Corrie, who also happened to be there. The pair hit it off, began dating and in 2016, tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in their favourite holiday destination of Barbados and where Will had popped the question the previous year.

The bubbly blonde says she always knew she’d end up with a man from Northern Ireland, despite her job bringing her all round the world. After their wedding, Zoe sold her London property and moved back to Co Down to set up home with her new husband.

“The funny thing is, I’m from Bangor and Will is from Ards and yet we’d never met before,” she says. “I went to dance school in Ards, and my dad worked there too but it took us to both be at the wedding to meet.

“I think my CV had a really good mix of elements to it and I was the right combination of what they were looking for at that time,” Zoe says. “The thing is, Blue Peter wasn’t the first audition I went for. I’d tried for other presenting roles. But it’s a very competitive industry and you need to be resilient.

“I definitely think fate played its part too.

I was always being invited to weddings and christenings but because of work commitments, I often couldn’t go. Catherine’s wedding was on a Saturday and I was already booked to come home to Belfast for the Fate Awards on Friday, so it was perfect.

“I was terrified going for my first ever audition Had I not gone to the wedding, I may never but I loved every minute of it. If I feel the fear, have met Will.” that’s a positive thing. It didn’t matter that I While considering herself a thoroughly didn’t get the job, I got bitten by the bug and modern woman, Zoe says she’s quite old tried again and then I landed my dream role.” fashioned when it comes to love and romance.

Zoe remained as part of the Blue Peter team for almost four years and during that time, had some amazing opportunities. She travelled the world, participated in adrenalinefuelled challenges and tried her hand at things she’d never done before like jumping out of aeroplanes, walking over hot coal and driving a racing car.

Other presenting jobs and guest appearances followed. She popped up in Comic Relief Does Fame Academy, competed in Dancing On Ice and Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls and presented programmes such as The Big Fat Truth About Low Fat Foods on BBC3 and Channel 5’s Celebrity Wish List.

For career convenience, Zoe based herself in London, flying home regularly to visit her family and friends. But then fate intervened

Zoe when she was announced as Miss Northern Ireland winner.

What also drew Zoe to Will was a combination of quiet confidence and kindness – personality traits he shares with the television presenter’s beloved mum Priscilla, who sadly passed away in 2016 not long after her daughter’s wedding.

Zoe later revealed that she and Will took the decision to tie the knot in Barbados because Priscilla had been too ill to attend a wedding at home. Rather than wed in Northern Ireland in the absence of Priscilla – something Zoe would She never wanted to live with a partner before never have contemplated - the couple opted getting married and says their decision not to to head away for a private wedding instead. co-habit until after their wedding made their “Will reminds me of my mum,” Zoe says. “He moving in together even more exciting. is quiet and kind and has such a nice, caring “I love being married,” she says. “I’d absolutely recommend it, although it’s very much a personal choice. I have friends who aren’t married and are very happy too.

nature, like she did. She really liked him too and that meant a lot to me.

“I still think about mum all the time. It never gets easier. We’ve just had to adjust to a new way of life now without her, but we’re a very “I’m so glad I held out for the right person. close family and we’re all going through the There’s something about Will that is homely; same thing. that makes me feel right at home. I picked up on that once I met him and when he asked “We set up a fund in her memory. The Priscilla me on a date, I said yes. I flew home from Edith Salmon Fund, with the Northern Ireland London to meet him and the rest, as they Hospice. Last year dad and I took part in a say, is history. We’ve been pretty much Hospice walk to raise money. It’s important to inseparable ever since and if work means we us that we keep her memory alive, although can’t be together, we’re in touch all the time she’s very much alive in our hearts and on the phone.” always will be.”

Local Women Magazine | 37

SOUTHERN AREA HOSPICE 50TH GALA BALL The Hospice Dance Committee’s 50th Annual Gala Ball was held at the Canal Court Hotel and was sponsored by Ashtree Financial and Tinnelly Group.

38 | Local Women Magazine

Local Women Magazine | 39

The day my life

CHANGED FOREVER…

Two Co Down mums reveal how a decision to enter the Miss Northern Ireland pageant led to a lifetime of friendship, fun and happy memories.

By Kim Kelly

Pauline Taylor, winner 1989

“I made friendships that lasted a lifetime”

Pauline has happy memories of being Miss NI

A

s a young dental nurse from Newry, Pauline Taylor had never thought about modelling as a career.

In fact, she had never even considered entering a beauty pageant, until she was approached by a Miss Northern Ireland scout on a night out.

Tall and beautiful, Pauline stood out from the crowd and the model scouts convinced her to take part in a heat that night at the nightclub where she was partying with her pals.

40 | Local Women Magazine

Although she was somewhat surprised to be asked, Pauline didn’t hesitate to take part in the competition.

With her beloved dad John’s favourite mantra ringing in her ears, “You’ll never live this day again,” Pauline took to the stage and became Miss Newry.

“My parents were so proud of me,” says Pauline, whose mum and dad, Bernadette and John supported her through every step of her career.

“They used to come with me when I had jobs in Belfast.

Back then for a wee girl from Newry, Belfast seemed so far away, and they wanted to make sure I was safe!

“I have a lovely memory of the night of the final and looking over and seeing their faces as I was crowned the winner. They were so proud.

It was such a big thing for them. They were just delighted for me.”

Now married to Gerry and Now in her 50s, Pauline is still a mum of two boys, Aaron gorgeous and Thomas, Pauline says that the Miss Northern Ireland pageant was great fun and she made friendships that have lasted a lifetime.

She and some of the other girls who competed in her year remain friends to this day.

“It was just such an incredible experience. The best bit was meeting all the girls, many of whom I am still friends with.

“It was all very different to the finals these days. Back then we generally borrowed dresses and you did your own make up and hair.

“We all mucked in together and I remember it being just the most magical time. We were like sisters and I made memories that I will never forget.

“I was introduced to a world outside my home in Newry and it really opened my eyes.

“Because of Miss Northern Ireland, I embarked on a career in PR. I have worked in that industry ever since and that is all down to Miss NI. “The year of my reign was so exciting, I competed in Miss UK and traveled all over doing modelling work. I met so many people and attended lots of really amazing events.

“I am so lucky that my parents were so supportive of me. I think I get my positive attitude from my dad. He was always telling me, “Smile, you’ll never live this day again.” And of course, he was right.

“Any young girl who is reading this who wants to enter the competition should seize the day! Whether you win or not, it doesn’t matter. Just being part of the Miss Northern Ireland family is a positive experience. You will learn so much and it will set you up for life.”

Pauline is encouraging young girls to enter the contest

An advert for the 1990 contest

Judith Spratt, winner 1990 “Miss NI shaped me as a person”

“

I was never the kind of person to put myself forward for things,” say former beauty queen Judith Spratt.

“But being Miss Northern Ireland changed all that. It made me more confident and shaped me as a person.”

It was Judith’s hairdresser who persuaded her to enter the pageant which was only in its third year back in 1990.

But it took several Judith still models from time to time attempts to persuade the stunning young girl from Dromore that she had what it took to be a Miss Northern Ireland.

“I initially just brushed him off, I had never considered myself the type to enter a pageant, but he kept on telling me I should go for it, and eventually I did!”

After winning her heat, Judith was crowned Miss Northern Ireland at the Europa Hotel, taking the title from her best friend Pauline Taylor.

“I met Pauline through Miss Northern Ireland and to this day we are best friends. I have so many friends I made through the pageant; we are like a family. The friendships have been lasting which is fantastic.”

Judith says her year as Miss Northern was great fun but very hard work.

“It was a full-on year of hard work. These days girls tend to take a year out of work or college. We didn’t do that back then.

I was working in an insurance firm in Belfast and they were great at letting me out to attend engagements.

Being crowned Miss NI

Modelling back in the 90s

“I just juggled the two jobs together and only took time off if it was a big job. It was such fun, I met so many people and it opened up a new world to me.

“Miss Northern Ireland has shaped my life. It gave me the confidence in myself that had been lacking. It taught me so much about myself and about how to get on in life.

“Any girl who has thought about doing the contest but who maybe has doubts should look at me. I was the Judith was in demand as a model kind of girl who needed a push to do it.

“There is no way I would have done it without that push from my hairdresser, but I am proof that it can be done. If I can do it so can you!”

For more information about Miss Northern Ireland visit www.acamodels.com or apply using the application form inside Local Women Magazine.

Local Women Magazine | 41

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What Women Want

HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE… Lori Gatsi-Barnett from the JoinHer Network speaks to Louise Warde Hunter, Principal and Chief Executive of leading Further and Higher Education College, Belfast Met, about why women have what it takes to deal with a crisis.

Continents, and time zones are grounded and facing a new normal. This new reality has opened our lives in so many different ways. For the first time the whole world is in the same place and our experiences are exposing just how similar we all are. Everything has changed and for a while we have become aware of our limitations as we are not out and present everywhere, but living indoors for a moment, in this time.

At the same time, looking from the window of the house, on either side we see how resilient people, families, friends and communities are.

We have had to consider the value of life and the danger and uncertainty no one could have ever imagined. Looking out neighbours have taken on consideration for each other, vulnerabilities have been so evident and the appreciation for everyone on the frontline battling it out to save us all.

The weather has been bright and sunny as if to tempt us to go beyond our back yard. Gardens and outdoor living spaces in our homes have provided a safe haven as with our children we plant and practice science projects that we certainly don’t want to ruin our floors. The sound of laughter, games outdoors, the aroma of barbecue days and the best staycations worthy of a travel agent family deal, is another aspect of this new normal that we presently face.

consistent and courageous response, whilst not losing focus and having decisive action plans. It has been beautiful to watch and applaud female leaders at work.

Louise continues: “At this challenging time for so many, communication has never been more important to us in all the communities we are part of, whether they are our communities of family and friends, our local neighbourhoods or our communities at work. How we connect and engage on-line has changed and accelerated.

From video meetings at work to the advent of the social media family quiz or the latest Tik Tok challenge, there’s a sense that whatever the world looks like, as we emerge from isolation, we have reinforced new lines of communication years ago when she was studying the qualities in our daily lives.” of successful leaders of change in the public Globally we are changing because in every sector, there was a clear correlation between the community, whatever its make-up, family, characteristics of good change leaders and the friends, our local neighbourhoods, or our attributes often associated with women leaders. colleagues at work, we all recognise that we The common denominators were an empathetic matter. In whatever we choose to stay connected, approach and sustained, good communication. we should reflect on what matters. Additionally,

Back indoors on a rainy day, home school and home office complete, those board games, puzzles, trivia and consoles! The competition between generations rages on to see who wins the challenges and who cheats! Winning at its best! For a brief moment we are all caught up living, creating memories and embracing belonging, unity and cherishing wellness and safety hidden within the house. By now we have all become so particular about cleaning standards, making sure everywhere is disinfected as we fight a The true test of leadership has been put on war with detergents. display with how different governments have “I have always been interested in how people responded to this pandemic. The evidence has cope with and manage change” says Louise been overwhelming that women have what Warde Hunter, the new Principal and Chief it takes to deliver in times of crisis. There Executive of leading Further and Higher is obvious confidence, calm processing of Education College, Belfast Met. She said, many information, swift delegation of duties and a

appreciate the finer things and make time to be present in the moment. Rekindle hobbies, rewrite songs and remake movie scenes, redesign our living spaces, hold dear our loved ones and plan for the future. Whichever side of the window we stand on, I’m confident there will always be hello from the other side.

For more information find us at joinher.co.uk Local Women Magazine | 49

50 | Local Women Magazine

Loving Me Loving Life Learning to love yourself is the most important thing you can do in the quest to create the life you truly want.

W

ho remembers being taught how to actually love yourself?

It is often commonly mistaken as arrogance or conceit. We often hear it as a criticism of others, “Look at her, she loves herself!” You can see some people physically squirm at the very mention of it, as for many it can feel so at odds with what they were taught as children.

However, it is one of the most important things to learn in life, if not the most important. We are the only voice in our head, we are the one constant person in our life, regardless of what happens, so surely the relationship we have with ourself, is something we should at least think about. One of the problems I see is that in general most people’s understanding of ‘loving yourself’ means that they should tell everyone how great they are and act like they are better than others. Ironically those who do this usually far from truly love themselves.

Learning to love yourself is about firstly getting to know yourself, moving towards acceptance of all parts of you, liking and learning how to love yourself, not just by how you feel about you, but in how you care for you. It is by taking these actions of self-love that we begin to permit ourselves to live more fully, by ensuring that all our needs are met, rather than using all our energy to meet the needs of others.

The mindset shift I work on with clients is the reverse of this. By teaching clients how to respond to their own needs and to embrace their true self and permit it to shine through, regardless of what others think, this positively impacts on their relationships and the way in which people respond to them. It begins to look like real confidence without the need to make others feel less. Instead it inspires those around them to make similar changes in their own life.

A lot of mothers are so overloaded with the pressures of modern living, to have and be it ‘all’, that they simply have long forgotten that they matter too. Ironically, the more they put their own needs further and further down the list, the more it affects them and their family.

Quite often I tell clients to do the illogical. For example, when you have a long list of tasks to do

and unleash your inner potential. It is a 12 week programme consisting of weekly 1-1 Facetime or face to face sessions (once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted these will resume), weekly journaling activities, course materials and an initial mindset transformation, where we focus on exploring who you are and what you want from the course.

I’m also an energy therapist, and can integrate this into the package, based on client needs and requests.

In addition, I have a set up a ‘Mindset for Mums’ group providing weekly wellbeing ‘get togethers’ on zoom. These are free of charge thanks to funding from Garvagh Development Trust.

The purpose of this group is to offer wellbeing and mindset tips for mums during COVID 19 lockdown. It is also to provide a network of support and non-judgemental space for mums to and feel overwhelmed, I advise them to take a support one another. I have decided to target this break, preferably by taking time to go outdoors, meditate or even take a nap; something which will group, as there are a lot of mums under immense pressure at the moment; juggling home schooling, relax the body and mind and recharge it.

When setting goals and working out what we want working from home, and parenting, as well as trying to meet their own needs. from life, how can we begin to do this if we don’t know who we are. Most people define themselves I am also currently offering counselling and personal development mentoring via Facetime, by their job title or role in the family but have WhatsApp and telephone, which can be booked never even considered who or what is behind on a weekly basis. these titles.

Make yourself a priority, nurture any feelings that When we begin to look more closely at this, we may begin to gain more clarity about what we truly surface, and seek professional support when you need it. want from life, not what we think we should do Ask yourself what would my life look like if I loved based on what we think will please others or the ‘rules’ and restrictions we have been placing in our myself more? What would I permit myself to be, do and have? own lives based on limiting beliefs.

I believe we all have a duty to love ourselves, Stay well, so that in turn we have more to give to others. I Louiseanne can see that for a long time we have been taught to give and give to others to our own detriment, where as when we can meet our needs first, the For more information on the work help we can give others is much more sustainable.

Louiseanne does, visit her Facebook The other thing I find is the happier I am, the more page: I want to spread it to others, as well as being more https://www.facebook.com/ capable to do so. lookwithin16 This has led me to put together the selfor email: louiseanneq@gmail.com development course ‘Loving me-Loving Life’. I offer a unique, tailor made programme supporting you in learning who you are and how to love yourself so that you can create the life you truly want Local Women Magazine | 51

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THE MOOD OF DRESSING WHILE YOU WORK FROM HOME DURING COVID19.

Hello, to all my readers this month I thought I would write about the mood of dressing for work during covid19 while you move from the office to the comforts of your home as your typical workday.

Once again, we challenge huge changes in our lifestyle and in our work environments. The coronavirus pandemic has forced most of us to work from home which has led to the tricky dress code when there is nowhere to go, so what do you actually wear to make your day

productive and help you feel motivated while you type up that memo, or take that business call .

Just remember ladies that when you are feeling low, clothes always have the power to give us warmth and security especially at a time like this so firstly don’t opt for a pair of tracksuit bottoms and a hoodie, keep this wear 60 | Local Women Magazine

you have kept those pjs on ! Just remember our clothes can motivate us and establish a purpose to our working day environment.

for your afternoon walk plus you don’t want to get caught out with that all important conference call on Zoom, unless you opt for dressing from the top up otherwise known as “conference call dressing” keeping business on top and pyjamas on the bottom then you can easily cover up and your colleagues won’t notice any difference !

As we all face daily bad news and restrictions it is tough enough trying to work let alone start pulling out that office skirt from the wardrobe and delving into your closet for your most stylish shirt , but in times of crisis it is so important to feel good and getting dressed can act as a form of self care , so what I suggest is when you get up in the morning , after your breakfast and before you settle down to opening up your laptop browse through your wardrobe and opt for a piece of clothing that makes you feel comfortable but productive , maybe this will consist of a nice blouse with a collar, a shirt , or just simply a smart colourful top that would look well on that zoom call !

Comfort is important too, and it is very easy to just throw something on in the mornings but you don’t want it to feel like its yesterday’s clothes so take out a nice pair of stretch jeans or classy comfortable elasticated waisted pants along with good footwear , trainers or soft ankle boots, try to avoid staying in your slippers unless

If you are looking for a little bit of a lift in your day try choosing bright colours to boost your mood, I find this really works for me and I have noticed that when my customers come to visit me instore at Gasp they immediately feel lifted when they try on colourful pieces especially during the spring summer season, so try bring this mood into your home office environment it will make such a difference to your day!

If you are really feeling brave and you have always wanted to practice power dressing for work well now is the time to do this from the confines of your kitchen table, your colleagues won’t recognise you in that zoom call while you dress to impress with that powerful pinstripe blouse, tight knee length skirt with a slit up the side and red soled high heeled pointed shoes , YES you are in control of any difficult situation that may arise at work , you are ready bring it on !!

Just on another note you may not all realise that I have revamped my online store www.gaspboutiques. com , we are taking all orders online with shipping direct to your door, I have had a little extra time to work on this while the boutique has been closed during this pandemic so please feel free to browse away and send me any queries you may have , I am more than happy to help you in any way that I can.

I do hope you, your families, and loved ones are all keeping safe and I look forward to seeing you all again in store very shortly, it is trying times for each and everyone one of us , but I do believe we will all get through this as a nation and hopefully a successful covid19 vaccine will be approved shortly so we can all bring a little bit of normality back into our daily lives.

In the meantime, Safe Safe everybody.

Until Next Month Regards

Ann Doyle

Proprietor of Gasp Boutique Armagh Local Women Magazine | 61

“Nothing is more important than our family” Local Women catches up with Northern Ireland golf star Darren Clarke and his beautiful wife Alison, who are on lockdown thousands of miles apart and getting ready for a big family reunion.

R

By Kim Kelly

there aren’t many other people there.

“We really don’t know when flights will ight now, Alison Clarke should be resume. We chat daily and sometimes have soaking up the sun in the Bahamas family chats. Our children are scattered all with her superstar golfer husband over the world. Conor is here in Portrush Darren. with me, Tyrone is in Florida, Stuart is in As I am chatting to her, the beautiful model boss Belfast and Philip is in Baltimore, so it’s is indeed basking in the rays – but, she’s a little quite a task getting us all together, but closer to home in sunny Portrush, while Darren is it’s important to stay connected. thousands of miles away in their other home in “A few other guests at the resort are Abaco Island. stuck there with Darren and they have It’s been two long months since Alison and all been making the best of it, but at this Darren were together. When the lockdown was time I think anyone would rather be at announced back in March, it was too late for home.”

Darren to return home to Northern Ireland.

Luckily there’s a golf course so Darren All flights in and out of the remote Abaco has been able to practise daily – but it’s Island in the northern Bahamas were cancelled just not the same as being at home in his and there he has remained ever since – trapped beloved Portrush. in paradise!

“I’m in paradise, yes, but it’s really tough being away from Alison and the boys. I miss “Most people think they would love to be stuck on a tropical island for lockdown,” Alison laughs. them all so much and the tough part is not “Of course, it’s gorgeous but it’s very remote and knowing when things will get back to the new normal when we can physically see each other again.

ƒ Alison Clarke 64 | Local Women Magazine

“All the borders and flights got shut before I could either get home or bring the family here. We have been very fortunate that, so far, we have no cases of COVID on Abaco. However, all of the Bahamas has been on curfew and weekend lockdown to battle the virus so, my trips off property have been very limited. The golf course and practice facilities have remained open, enabling me to work hard on my game away from Flippers Beach Bar here!”

ƒ Alison and Darren with the Ryder Cup

So far summer 2020 hasn’t been what any of us expected.

ƒ Alison and Darren on their wedding day

Lockdown has tested us all – not being able to see family and friends, the uncertainty of work and, okay it may sound a little shallow, but the closure of hairdressers and beauticians has hit hard.

For a woman known for her glamour and beauty, Alison hasn’t let a global pandemic stop her looking her best. Take one look at her Instagram pictures and you’ll see she looks better than ever.

She’s got a tanned and relaxed beachy vibe going on – and it really suits her.

People often ask me what Alison is really like – I think they have the impression that she is high maintenance and spends her days in a spa – absolutely not! us.

In reality the model boss and former beauty queen is an advocate of natural beauty. She’s a real girls’ girl, great fun and best of all – very practical!

“It is time to move forward in different ways. We won’t truly know the full picture until we re-open again. It is an interesting time for all of us, but we will adapt.”

“People are surprised that I am so low maintenance,” says Alison. “Under normal circumstances, I love Michele International for hair and Beauty Boulevard for my nails - luckily, the girls there have taught me lots.

“I travel a lot with Darren and I can be away for weeks at a time. It’s important that I can look after myself because I don’t want to be relying on unknown hairdressers or beauticians.

And of course, one of Alison’s most asked questions is about the future of the Miss Northern Ireland pageant which has been put on hold until it is safe to go back to the bars for heats.

ƒ Darren who is currently in lockdown in the Bahamas

“I have learned to do a lot of my own beauty treatments when I have to. But I have to confess that I recently used a box dye for the first time since I was about 20!

“I phoned Chantel from Michele International and told her what I was planning – she wasn’t thrilled of course but she talked me through it, and it worked out okay!

Eight girls have already been picked for the final, but the rest of the heats have been suspended.

“Miss Northern Ireland will continue when it is safe to return to the bars and hotels. Things are uncertain right now, but we will definitely be back.

“We are lucky that our current Miss Northern Ireland Lauren Leckey is so active and visible on social media. She is still the current title holder and is a great ambassador for the competition.”

ACA Models is currently closed. Obviously, as But before all that, there will be an amazing family reunion. As we slowly emerge out of much of the agency’s work relies on big events like “I’ve been giving my hair a rest and not drying it, so I’ve been enjoying a more natural, beachy the Irish Open or Balmoral Show, there is no work lockdown, new flights should be announced soon. for her team of models. look.

Alison is monitoring the situation closely and “Lockdown is the time to embrace our natural watching as the fashion world undergoes a beauty and let it shine – we have no choice!” seismic change.

And lockdown is clearly suiting Alison who “The fashion world is changing every day. is looking fit and healthy and more youthful than ever from her daily beach walks along the Brands like Gucci have announced that they are reducing the number of fashion shows a year from north coast. five to two. In essence fashion is now seasonless,” It’s certainly a change of pace from her usual she says. frenetic work lifestyle, organising fashion shows “Collections from spring 2020 are in warehouses and events and of course the Miss Northern – will they be brought out next year?

Ireland pageant.

Whether the reunion is in Portrush or the Bahamas still remains to be seen.

“It really doesn’t matter where we meet,” says Alison. “As soon as flights open up either way, we will be together.

“Lockdown has been hard. I have seen almost no one in ten weeks. I have become an expert at grocery shopping online. I have been so careful as this virus is terrifying.

“But it has reminded me of the importance of family and made me accept a more stripped “Of course, this all filters down to us. Right now, These days beach walks have replaced meetings back lifestyle. and fashion shows – Alison’s days are spent we can’t even buy clothes in real life, only online. quietly catching up with admin and talking to The fashion world may never be the same again “We will all come out of this a little different and friends online. and obviously as a model agency this impacts on I don’t think that’s a bad thing at all.”

Local Women Magazine | 65

COLOURFUL CLASSICS FROM KULAR FASHION

Hi everyone!

We hope you’re all keeping well and staying positive through these testing times. Hopefully, we’re coming out the other side and ‘normal life’ isn’t too far away.

This month’s column has been inspired by the now-famous NHS rainbows we’ve been seeing everywhere over the last few weeks.

It’s been great to celebrate our key-workers and give them a muchneeded, virtual pat on the back for all the hard work they’ve been doing. Our Shoe-Floor Manager, Richard Lynch, created an amazing rainbow-balloon display which you might have seen if you were walking around the city.

Casual & Colourful Polo Ralph Lauren has a fantastic collection of colourful casual wear, from sweatshirts to t-shirts to loungewear.

Now is the perfect time to introduce some colour into our wardrobes, and no one does colour quite like Ralph Lauren.

We have been working hard behind the scenes and are delighted to announce we have launched the Polo Ralph Lauren range onto our website. As some of you might already know, we have exclusively carried the Polo Ralph Lauren range in store, but we have now expanded and moved it online too.

The Polo Ralph Lauren range is filled with classic pieces that every wardrobe should have. We’re going to show you some of our favourite colourful and casual pieces from the collection that will look great as we enter the Summer months.

66 | Local Women Magazine

Crafted from soft fleece for that perfect ‘lived-in’ look and feel, Polo created a range of sweatshirts in lots of lovely, bright colours. We love the hot pink and vibrant yellow, which would look great teamed with white or blue denim. These sweatshirts would give you that injection of colour that all of our wardrobes need at this time of year. One of the great things about Polo Ralph Lauren is its versatility. You can team these sweatshirts with shorts or a skirt now, or with jeans in the Wintertime.

Our favourite has to be the rainbow-hued trim with the crochet detail on the left sleeve and the iconic logo printed across the back.

You could treat your favourite key-worker to a lovely present and gift them the rainbowthemed sweatshirt.

Knitwear for Summer

Cool & Classic

Let’s face it, while the weather might be great at the minute, we don’t have long hot summer nights for too long here in Northern Ireland. Therefore, light knitwear can be bought and worn all-year-around.

Nothing says Ralph Lauren more than their classic Oxford shirts. The washed cotton is cut for an updated slim silhouette and finished with the signature embroidered Pony at the chest.

Made from soft Pima cotton and featuring a textural cable-knit motif, these short-sleeve sweaters are a stunning addition to your wardrobe and will carry you into the Autumn too. The bright striped version is a real eye-catcher; however, they do come in a range of muted pastel tones if you prefer something softer.

Coming in a range of colours, there will be a tone that suits your complexion and make you feel like a million dollars. Team it with a skinny jeans and trainers for the ultimate casual look now, or dress it up with a tailored trouser and court shoe for an office-appropriate ensemble later in the year.

Check out our new blog and keep up to date with all the latest news from Kular Fashion

www.kularfashion.com/blog Don’t forget you get 10% OFF your first order online plus FREE DELIVERY on all orders over £25 Ferryquay Street | Derry~Londonderry | 028 7126 1326 @kularfashion

kularfashion

@kularfashion

kularfashion Local Women Magazine | 67

FORGET HAIR LOSS NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION...

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW DOT MICRO IS A MULTI AWARD WINNING COMPANY THAT PROVIDES A FANTASTIC HAIR LOSS SOLUTION CALLED SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION. The clinic based in Holywood, County Down provides a non-medical hair loss solution. Scalp micropigmentation can be used to treat hereditary hair loss, and other forms of Alopecia and can even camouflage scars on the scalp.

My only regret is that I didn’t have it done sooner.”

Don Allen

One of our valued clients

SO HOW DOES SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION WORK? Tiny flecks of ink are applied to the top layer of skin. These super tiny dots resemble shaved hair follicles or can look like the base of hair follicles under thinning hair.

Mark Smith, the global multi award winning scalp micropigmentation artist can basically make thin hair look more

dense or can a give a bald guy back what actually looks like a full head of hair but shaved.

It’s amazing.

The great thing about scalp micropigmentation is that the results are almost immediate and can last many years before requiring a top up treatment.

WHAT CAN SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION BE USED TO TREAT? Scalp micropigmentation is also known as SMP or a hair tattoo. The treatment’s popularity is huge in the US and other parts of the world and now becoming a popular choice as a hair loss solution in Northern Ireland.

SMP has many uses. It’s most common use is for men who have severe hair loss. However, It’s equally effective for giving the appearance of more density in thinning hair and so a

great option to men and women alike suffering from various forms of alopecia.

BEFORE

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In addition, it’s commonly used to camouflage scars on the scalp. These could be either small scars from minor injuries to large medical scars.

The clinic offer free consultations with various treatment special offers on through winter and spring.

Give us a call today on +44 (0) 2895 570 001

SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION IS AN EFFECTIVE AND IMMEDIATE HAIR LOSS SOLUTION FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN THIS TREATMENT IS AN EXCELLENT WAY OF TREATING VARIOUS FORMS OF HAIR LOSS OR CONCEALING SCARS ON THE SCALP

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See their latest results on Facebook and Instagram

Get an extra guest room, dressing room or new kids play area simply by installing natural gas

I

f you’re like the many others who are currently working from home at the moment you might be dreaming about how to get a bit more space at your place.

Social media is awash with images of people having set up personal workstations in the most interesting of places, from the corner of kid’s bedrooms, to garages, to kitchen counters. Throw in the chaos of looking after kids, two parents working from the same house, a few dogs and cats, and suddenly home isn’t the sanctuary it used to be - in fact most houses are bulging at the seams.

Of course, we are all doing the right thing to reduce the risks of spreading coronavirus, but sometimes, when juggling kids, deadlines, zoom calls and space issues, it’s understandable that things can get a bit fraught and tight!

Well, did you know that natural gas might offer a solution? If you haven’t already got natural gas you can get more space at your place by installing it. That’s because when you switch to natural gas from oil you can get rid of the tanks in your roofspace, the hotwater cylinder in the hot press and the oil tank in the garden too – allowing you to reclaim a whopping c. 75sq feet of space from your home which opens up lots more space for new rooms and areas.

C

M

when the time comes to sell.

Y

The opportunities don’t end there. With natural gas the hot water cylinder in the hot press is taken away which suddenly opens up possibilities for a brand new dressing room, laundry room or even a walk in shower.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K Lastly by installing natural gas you can remove the oil tank in your garden. Hello garden reDoes the idea of having an extra room appeal? design. Ever wanted outdoor space to sit, Removing the hot water tank and pipework relax, entertain or a place for the children to the peace of mind of never running out. You’ll from your attic could mean a loft conversion play? Now you can. also being doing your bit for the environment is possible. Converting loft space not only Simply, firmus energy natural gas is the by reducing carbon emissions by up to 50%*. provides extra space, whether for an extra ultimate home improvement. Not only do you So what are you waiting for? Find out if you living room, home office or bedroom and get more space at your place but you’ll get can get natural gas today by calling our bathroom, but even better, when done well, all the normal benefits too including instant customer servives phoneline on 0330 024 can add pounds to the value to your home heat, smart controls, endless hot water and 9000 or heading to firmusenergy.co.uk/gas.

We also have a team of energy advisors who are ready and waiting to answer any questions you might have. Just head to firmus energy. co.uk, choose the energy advisor dependent on the area that you live, and give them a call. Want more space at your place? Choose firmus energy natural gas.

To date, over 100,000 customers have connected to natural gas with firmus energy and are enjoying the benefits that natural gas brings - from constant hot water, to more space in the garden, more efficient boilers to simply being a better choice for the environment.

Homes and businesses interested in making the switch to firmus energy natural gas can find out more by calling 0330 024 9000 or visiting www.firmusenergy.co.uk • When compared to oil 70 | Local Women Magazine

More Space

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goodbye oil tank, ergy Our en rs adviso to dy are rea r call u take yo

hello kids play area Register your interest today at

firmusenergy.co.uk/gas

Local Women Magazine | 71

WIN WIN WIN

The ultimate home improvement with firmus energy and Tobermore

I

nstalling natural gas is the ultimate home improvement giving you More Space at Your Place both inside and outside the home!

And this summer firmus energy has teamed up with paving and walling experts Tobermore to offer homeowners the chance to transform their home this year by winning the ultimate home improvement.

If being at home more often over the last few months has inspired you to start your own home or garden improvement journey then this competition is for you.

Up for grabs is ÂŁ1,000 towards installing natural gas and ÂŁ1,000 towards Tobermore paving as well as a personal landscape design consultation which you can use to help create your dream outdoor space.

Just head over to firmus energy’s website for full details of the competition

www.firmusenergy.co.uk/more-space as well as get ideas and inspiration for your home transformation.

72 | Local Women Magazine

Local Women Magazine | 73

74 | Local Women Magazine

Local Women Magazine | 75

For many children home isn’t a safe place…

The amazing counsellors at Childline are hard at work during the pandemic. Belfast’s Denise Quinn explains that with children in crisis across the country, donating to the charity is more important than ever.

A

By Maureen Coleman

Co Antrim woman, who is a counsellor with Childline, has spoken about how she and her colleagues are continuing to support children and young people during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Denise Quinn, from Belfast, has been a supervisor with the NSPCC-run service for around six months and is part of a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who are answering calls and email contacts at Childline’s Belfast base.

Denise, who was a social worker for 11 years before joining Childline, has been granted key worker status with her colleagues at the Belfast base. Childline has 12 bases across the UK including two in Northern Ireland – Belfast and Foyle.

The 38-year-old said: “Now, more so than ever, our children and young people need the service. We as adults are anxious and worried about the future and struggling to understand what is happening, imagine what that is like for a child. Their world has changed practically overnight.

“The routine of going to school, seeing their teachers, playing with their friends, studying for exams that are no longer happening, and doing things that they enjoy, to instead being at home 24/7 perhaps with brothers and sisters they don’t get along with, and with parents who are themselves stressed, mean children are very vulnerable. We are very aware that already children are struggling with their mental health and don’t have the resilience and coping skills needed right now.”

in. We will be there to listen to them, to let them know they are important, to support them and keep them safe. Whether they are upset about not seeing their best friend, how anxious they are about not doing their exams, that they are frightened about their mum who is a nurse, or worried about when they will see their CAMHS worker again,

She added: “That’s where Childline comes Childline will be there.

76 | Local Women Magazine

“I am so very aware of the children and young people for whom home isn’t a safe place, either physically or emotionally, and for all sorts of reasons. These children are now more vulnerable than ever. There is no teacher to look out for them. No visits to the school counsellor. And no friends to spend time with. It is these children that I am especially worried about and who need to Childline to be there.”

“We will be there to listen to them, to let them know they are important, to support them and keep them safe.”

Denise and her colleagues at Childline are now urging the public to continue to support children during this challenging time. To adapt to the ever-changing situation, the NSPCC has launched its appeal ‘We’re still here for children’.

Despite Childline having to close the night service for the first time and having a 30% drop in volunteer hours, due to counsellors having to self-isolate, it’s battling to still be there for children across the UK. The NSPCC is urging the public to visit its website and donate £10 to help fund vital services like Childline so the charity can continue to answer calls and be here for the young people who desperately need someone to talk to, especially when home isn’t a safe place.

Between January 21, 2020 and April 8, 2020, Childline delivered over 2,200 counselling sessions across the UK to children and young people who were concerned about Coronavirus.

Denise added: “Yes, it is hard to keeping going to work, when almost everyone else is staying at home. It’s hard when everyone is so anxious, but trying not to be. And it’s hard to leave my children knowing that many of their friends are being brilliantly homeschooled by parents and having lots of fun each day. But then I have that chat with a child who is anxious, or lonely, or frightened, and I am able to listen to them, and even if just for a short time, to help them feel safe. Then that guilt about my own children disappears.

“No matter what lies ahead in the coming weeks and months, I know that Childline will be there. I feel very grateful to be part of a team of staff and volunteers who are continuing to come to work so that our children continue to have someone who will listen, someone who cares, and someone who will support them to keep safe.”

In the past few weeks Childline has heard from children whose parents have lost their jobs and are under growing financial pressure, as well as from young carers struggling to look after their siblings whilst their parents fall sick with Coronavirus symptoms. Childline is also hearing from children who have had suicidal thoughts and talk about feeling trapped and isolated.

To support the appeal, the NSPCC has launched a new television ad which features a Childline counsellor talking after a shift about the vital importance of the service.

Young people can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or via 1-2-1 chat on www.childline.org.uk Childline also has a huge online community where children can get support from their peers on message-boards and use expert resources to help them through any issue they are concerned about.

If adults are worried about children they can get advice from NSPCC practitioners on 0808 800 5000 or help@nspcc.org.uk The NSPCC is urging the public to visit its website and donate £10 to help fund vital services like Childline so the charity can continue to answer calls and be here for the young people who desperately need someone to talk to, especially when home isn’t a safe place.

Local Women Magazine | 77

U TURN FITNESS ACADEMY

FAKEAWAY RECIPES Dieting can be tough, in order to ease the transition we have developed a selection of healthier alteratives to our takeaway favourites.

Salt and Chilli Chicken INGREDIENTS

Calories: 371

•

2 x chicken breasts, sliced

•

1 x eggs

•

20g Ground Almonds

•

1 x pepper, sliced

•

1 x onion, sliced

•

1 x chilli, sliced (or 1/ 2 Tsp of Lazy chilli’s

•

depending on preference)

•

1 x tsp coarse sea salt

Carbs: 1.6g Fat: 19.8g Add cals for side ie Rice 154 cal per 100g

DIRECTIONS 1.

Pour some ground almonds onto a plate and add the teaspoon of sea salt to it – mix it through!

2.

Take your strips of chicken and dip it in a bowl of beaten eggs, before rolling it in the Ground Almonds mixture – repeat until all the chicken is coated.

3.

Cook the chicken at 200° for about 20 minutes or until you think it has cooked through.

4.

While the chicken is cooking, stir fry (using fry light) the green peppers, onion and chillies.

5.

When the chicken is ready, add it to the pan to combine it with the vegetables.

6.

Serve with rice or noodles and devour.

CHICKEN BOX INGREDIENTS •

180g chicken breast cooked and

Calories: 379

•

shredded/cut into pieces

Carbs: 29g

•

200g homemade chips

Fat: 9g

•

Sea Salt

Protein: 43g

•

¼ tsp Paprika

•

¼ tsp Onion granules

•

Pinch of Sea Salt

•

Onions and peppers

•

Sauces - Skinny Co Sweet Chilli Mayo, Chilli

•

& Garlic Mayo

DIRECTIONS 1. Cook up chicken whether than be thinly sliced and fried or boiled then shredded 2. Cut up potatoes toss in tbsp of olive oil/coconut oil & Seasonings 3. Put in the air fryer and cook for 18mins at 170°(can be done in a normal oven also) 4. Once Chips, Chicken and veg are all ready plate up and cover in sauces and enjoy :)

Full range of sauces and protein available at Sport Health Nutrition Follow us on Facebook/sportshealthandnutrition45 78 | Local Women Magazine

OUR GIFT TO NHS STAFF

As a thank you to all our wonderful NHS staff we are offering full access to all editons of our cookbooks. E-mail seanakelly16@hotmail.com or dannyglenn1990@gmail.com and we will forward.

PROTEIN PANCAKES INGREDIENTS MAKES 2 PANCAKES •

30g Oats - blended into flour

•

Half scoop of protein (Vanilla, chocolate etc),

•

1 egg

•

Water 50g to 75g (depending on how thick of

consistency you like) ADDED TOPPINGS

spicy beef nachos INGREDIENTS SERVES 3

Calories: 338

•

180g 5% Mince

Carbs: 32g

•

2 x Wholemeal wraps

Fat: 8g

•

100g Passata

Protein: 33g

•

1 x tsp Lazy Garlic

•

1 x tbsp of Worcestershire sauce

•

1 x chilli, sliced (or 1/ 2 Tsp of Lazy chilli’s

•

Greek yogurt

•

Skinny Co Chocolate Sauce

•

Strawberries (mashed up to jam consistency)

DIRECTIONS 1. Blend oats into flour 2. In a bowl whisk together blended oats, protein and egg then add water 3. Melt a tsp of coconut oil in a pan and pour in half the mixture, cook for 2 to 3 mins until browning the flip and repeat 4. Add preferred toppings and enjoy Calories: 270 Carbs: 19g Fat: 9g Protein: 25g Add cals for toppings

depending on preference) •

1 x tsp coarse sea salt

•

1 x tsp Coconut oil

•

Skinny sauces Sweet Chilli Mayo & Garlic Mayo

• Can add onion & peppers SALSA •

1 red pepper

•

1 red/white onion

•

1 tsp Lazy Garlic

•

1 tsp Lazy chilli (add mo

•

re if prefered spicy)

•

2 tbsp passata

•

1 tsp of tomato puree

DIRECTIONS 1. Fry your mince in coconut oil with the garlic, Chilli and onions and peppers 2. Add in the rest of the seasonings with Passata & Worcestershire sauce 3. Make Salsa - Sweat off chopped peppers & onions add Garlic and Chilli stir well, Add in passata & tomato puree combine until reduced and serve 4. Serve with Skinny sauces Sweet Chilli Mayo & Garlic Mayo To make carb free swap out wraps for baby gem lettuce

www.uturn.fitness Follow us on Facebook/uturnfitnessderry Local Women Magazine | 79

with Anna Nelis

H

ey everyone, my name is Anna Nelis!

I am 10 years old and I am currently living the worst part of my life EVER during Lockdown! I wish that Coronavirus would go away so that I could go outside and play with my friends. Instead I am stuck in the house with my two little brothers and my crazy parents. When is this going to be over?

I have decided to write to all the fed-up children out there to give them ideas of what to do during Lockdown when you are bored. Hers is a list of my favourite activities that I have done so far:

A Little Bit More About Me

W

hen I was in P5, I found out that I am Dyslexic.

I was sad because I felt like I was dumb and couldn’t even say the word! I was embarrassed to tell people. I still am, a wee bit.

I know now that it’s okay to be dyslexic, because if everyone in the world was the same, life would be very boring. Plus, being dyslexic gives you superpowers! My brain works differently, so I can solve problems in ways that other people can’t.

Did you know that Roald Dahl was Dyslexic, and he wrote books for a living? It’s amazing that he could write books that have been read millions of times even when he struggled to spell.

Maybe next month, I will write a page in my Dyslexic language and see who can work it out

LOCKDOWN TASKS FOR YOU • Funny Face Art

• Making Fruit Salad • Planting Seeds • Making Plasticine • Baking my own Birthday Cake

MY FAVOURITE APPS FOR KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH FRIENDS 80 | Local Women Magazine

If you are Dyslexic like me, I would love to hear about your superpower! Don’t be embarrassed, be proud!

Giota Beag Eile You can write to me in Irish or English as I go to an Irish Medium School.

You can email me at reception@localwomensnews.com

Friends over the Fence

L

ife during Lockdown isn’t that bad, because I have made a friend over the fence. Her name is Hailie, she is nine and she is tall like me! In fact, we could be twins- our friendship was meant to be. We like all the same things, like, Harry Potter, Ferrero Rocher, Billie Eilish and our favourite colours are green and purple.

Every day after our schoolwork is finished, we go outside and talk over the fence. I don’t even know what we talk about, but we have a good laugh and Hailie makes me happy. It is amazing the games that you can play over the fence if you have a good imagination. We play ‘Hide ‘n’ Seek’, ‘Heads or Tails’, ‘Four Corners’ and ‘Five Second Rule’.

I love having a friend to keep me company during Lockdown, and when this all over, I am going to go straight next door and give Hailie a great, big hug!

My Mum told me about a poem called, ‘Mending Wall’, by a famous American

Poet called Robert Frost that she had read in school. In the poem, Robert and his neighbour are fixing the wall between their two farms, and the neighbour explains to Robert that, “good fences make good neighbours”. If it wasn’t for my fence, Hailie and I wouldn’t be friends as we wouldn’t be able to keep a safe distance from each other. Our fence splits us up, but it has made our friendship grow.

My Favourite Things

Hailie’s Favourite Things

FAVOURITE SINGER: Billie Eilish

FAVOURITE SINGER: Billie Eilish

FAVOURITE COLOUR: Purple

FAVOURITE COLOUR: Purple

FAVOURITE AUTHOR: Tom Fletcher

FAVOURITE AUTHOR: Tom Fletcher

FAVOURITE HARRY POTTER CHARACTER: Dobby

FAVOURITE HARRY POTTER CHARACTER: Lund Lovegod

FAVOUITE TIC TOC DANCE: Renegade

FAVOUITE TIC TOC DANCE: Unicorn

FAVOURITE TIC TOC INFLUENCER: Kouvr

FAVOURITE TIC TOC INFLUENCER: Avvanni

FAVOURITE FOOD: Kebab

FAVOURITE FOOD: Chinese Beef and Mushrooms with no Mushrooms

FAVOURITE DISNEY CHARACTER: Dumbo

FAVOURITE DISNEY CHARACTER: Dumbo

FAVOURITE ANIMAL: Puppy

FAVOURITE ANIMAL: Elephant

FAVOURITE SCHOOL SUBJECT: Maths

FAVOURITE SCHOOL SUBJECT: Lunch Local Women Magazine | 81

TOP TIP WHY NO T USE PASTA F OR HAIR OR FOR A CURLY B EARD?

Funny Face Art

Making Art from rubbish This project was lots of fun because it was easy and creative to make and only uses materials that you have around the house. Any age can create a funny face, or any kind of face that you want, because they don’t have to be perfect. You can make a cross face, a happy face, a sad face, or even a surprised face. All that you need is:

• Cardboard • Paint • Tape or glue • Any extras that you want to add to it yourself.

Making Fruit Salad

We were asked to make a Fruit Salad as part of our homework from school, but I didn’t mind because I love fruit and it was nice and healthy. You can use whatever fruit you want and you can change what fruit juice you use. My Mum made it with us as we had to use a knife.

Ingredients: • Blueberries • Grapes • Kiwis • Strawberries • Pineapple • Apples • Pure Orange Juice •

Wash your fruit

•

Get an adult to help you cut the fruit

•

Add to the bowl and pour juice over the fruit

EAT!!!!!!

82 | Local Women Magazine

TOP TIP POUR YOGHURT OVER YOUR PORTION. YUMMY IN MY TUMMY!

•

Cut out a shape for the face from a cardboard box.

(I got an adult to do this for me as the cardboard was hard to cut and you need to use sharp scissors)

•

Cut out shapes for the eyes, nose, mouth and ears, or any extra shapes that you want to add.

•

Draw a design or pattern on your face and then paint it.

•

Paint your shapes and leave them to dry.

•

Once all the paint is dry, stick your shapes to your face and DONE!

Planting Seeds

B

efore this dumb Lockdown started, my Grandad gave us seeds and pots to grow our own plants in our new house. I was happy because we sometimes plant in school and I love doing it. My Grandad gave us tomato seeds, sunflower seeds and Sweet Pea seeds. After a couple of weeks, they started to grow shoots out of the soil, so we replanted them in bigger pots and now they are flourishing. I can’t wait for the tomatoes to grow so that I can eat them.

We have hanging pots on the fence filled with strawberry plants. One strawberry is already big, but it is green, sadly!

I am keeping an eye on it every day so I can eat it before my brothers get it! It has been very sunny in our garden since quarantine started, so the plants are growing quickly without a greenhouse.

We have an herb box and I am learning all the names of the herbs like Thyme, Rosemary, Coriander, Basil and Mint. I love gardening because you can get dirty and messy without getting in trouble.

If you have been planting flowers or fruit and vegetables during Lockdown, then please send me your pics.

TOP TIP PUT SOME STONES AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BIG FLOWERPOTS TO HELP THEM DRAIN PROPERLY.

Making my own Birthday cake...

This cake recipe is the best because it is really easy to make!

Before you start, preheat the fan oven to 180 degrees.

•

Ingredients For the cake

• 225g/8oz plain flour • 350g/12½oz caster sugar • 85g/3oz cocoa powder • 1½ tsp baking powder • 1½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 2 free-range eggs • 250ml/9fl oz milk • 125ml/4½fl oz vegetable oil • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 250ml/9fl oz boiling water

For the chocolate icing

• 200g/7oz plain chocolate • 200ml/7fl oz double cream

Now, all that you need to do is put all the ingredients, apart from the boiling water, into one bowl. Once you have done that, mix with an electric mixer and pour a small bit of the boiling water in at a time. Put the mixture in the lined cake tins and put it into the oven at 180 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. When you think the cake is ready put a knife or skewer into the middle of the cake and if the knife comes out clean then the cake is ready. You have to let the cake cool down in the tin before you decorate it

How to make the icing •

For my birthday cake I used the ganache icing that I have included in my ingredients list. It is just as easy to make as the cake and tastes so good! Heat the chocolate and cream in a saucepan at a low heat. Once it has all melted, put it in a bowl and whisk it until it is all shiny and thickened. You must leave it for 1-2 hours until it is thicker and ready to spread.

RECIPE TIP THE CAKE MIXTURE IS QUITE THIN, SO YOU NEED TO USE SANDWICH CAKE TINS AS THE SPRINGFORM TINS WILL LEAK.

Assemble the cake •

Remove the cakes carefully from the cake tins.

Spread a little bit of the icing on one of the cakes and then place the other cake on top.

Spread the rest of the icing around all the cake and then decorate it whatever way you want!

Instructions 1. In a large bowl, combine all of your dry ingredients (flour, salt, cream of tartar) and mix well.

• 1 cup flour • 2 tsp cream of tartar • 1/2 cup salt • 1 tbsp cooking oil • 1 cup cold wayer • 2 drops liquid food colouring (not compulsory)

2. Mix food coloring with

your water first. Then add the vegetable oil and water

with food coloring

to a large pot Mix together.

3. Add the dry

ingredients to your

pot and mix well.

4. Cook over low to medium

heat until the dough starts to form and becomes dry.

5. Once it starts to form a ball together and looks fully cooked, take off the heat. Let the dough cool first before touching.

6. Once cool, knead the dough for 5 minutes to make the dough soft.

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SHOP ONLINE AT

www.shannonsboutique.com T: 078 7799 1350 | E: shannonsboutique19@gmail.com shannons_boutique1

@shansaccessoriesx

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86 | Local Women Magazine

SHOP ONLINE AT

www.shannonsboutique.com T: 078 7799 1350 | E: shannonsboutique19@gmail.com shannons_boutique1

@shansaccessoriesx

Local Women Magazine | 87

88 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Naomi

Daniel

BRIDE: Naomi Hall, from Coleraine GROOM: Daniel Farmer, from Burton Upon Trent WEDDING: 28/05/19 CEREMONY: Portstewart Baptist Church RECEPTION: Leighinmohr House Hotel HAIR: Tiffany Faulkner MUA MAKE-UP: Moods Hairdressing DRESS: Castle Couture Luxury Bridalwear FLOWERS: Pauline Reid Flowers HONEYMOON: Riviera Maya, Mexico PHOTOGRAPHY: Alexandra Barfoot Photography www.alexandrabarfoot.co.uk

Newry Street | Kilkeel | Co Down | T: 028 4176 2315

New Wedding List Service

Check out our new website for browsing, creating and managing wedding lists.

www.weddinglistni.co.uk

Local Women Magazine | 89

We want your Weddings!

Relive your special day by seeing it in print.

Send your lovely wedding photos to weddings@localwomensnews.com and we will feature it in our magazine. It doesn’t matter when you got married.

90 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Lindsay

Paul

BRIDE: Lindsay Holmes, from Bessbrook; Daughter of Norma and Paul Holmes, Bessbrook GROOM: Paul Gollogly, from Mullaghbawn; Son of Thomas and Rosaleen Gollogly, Mullaghbawn WEDDING: 20/09/2019 CEREMONY: Flagstaff Lodge, Newry RECEPTION: Flagstaff Lodge, Newry BRIDESMAIDS: Joyce Holmes and Abbie Holmes BEST MAN: Gary Bennett PAGE BOY: John Holmes PHOTOGRAPHER: Edel Fearon (E Media & Photography) HAIR: Julieann Fleming MAKE-UP: Tara Doran DRESS: Divinity Bridal FLOWERS: Denise Hanna

Newry Street | Kilkeel | Co Down | T: 028 4176 2315

New Wedding List Service

Check out our new website for browsing, creating and managing wedding lists.

www.weddinglistni.co.uk

Local Women Magazine | 91

92 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Corina

John

BRIDE: Corina Ryan, Derry; Daughter of Janet Ryan and Arthur Kelpie GROOM: John Paul Devine, Derry; Son of Seamus Mc Bride and Margaret Devine DATE: 14/09/2019 CEREMONY: Steelstown Chapel RECEPTION: An Grianan Hotel.

BRIDESMAIDS: Heidi Doherty, Ciara Kelpie, Melissa Rabette, Jennifer Coyle and Chantelle Simpson MAID OF HONOUR: Leah Devine BEST MAN: Sean Mc Cole GROOMSMEN: Philip Craig, Brandan Bradley, Lee Bradley, Josh Bradley and Mickey Devine PHOTOGRAPHER Gerard Gormley Photography and Eyecon Photography HAIR: Caroline Healy at Vanity MAKE UP: Lauren Carton DRESS: McElhinneys, Ballybofey FLOWERS: Groovy Ruby Ltd

Newry Street | Kilkeel | Co Down | T: 028 4176 2315

New Wedding List Service

Check out our new website for browsing, creating and managing wedding lists.

www.weddinglistni.co.uk

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94 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Rebecca Deaglán BRIDE: Rebecca McErlean from Bellaghy; Daughter of Gerard and Louise McErlean GROOM: Deaglán Lowry from Slaughtneil; Son of Mark and Thérèse Lowry WEDDING DATE: 20th July 2019 CEREMONY: St. Mary’s Church, Bellaghy RECEPTION: Slieve Russell Hotel BRIDESMAIDS: Debbie Tennyson, Erin McKernan & Aoife Jones BEST MAN: Rónán Lowry GROOMSMEN: Conall Lowry and Ryan McErlean PHOTOGRAPHER: 4Ever Photos HAIR: Kirsty Brady (Hair by Kirsty at Hidden) MAKE-UP: Hannah Murray Make-up & Brow Artist DRESS: Verona Bridal FLOWERS AND CHAPEL/VENUE STYLING: Happy Ever Vintage

Newry Street | Kilkeel | Co Down | T: 028 4176 2315

New Wedding List Service

Check out our new website for browsing, creating and managing wedding lists.

www.weddinglistni.co.uk

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96 | Local Women Magazine

LW WEDDINGS

Kerrie Eugene BRIDE: Kerrie Tennyson from Clonoe; Daughter of Conor and Paula Tennyson GROOM: Eugene Ryan from Brocagh; Son of Eugene and Lilly Ryan WEDDING DATE: 05/10/2019 CEREMONY: Kingisland Chapel RECEPTION: Cabra Castle BRIDESMAIDS: Caroline Doris, Clare Tennyson, Olivia Mc Crystal BEST MAN: Don Ryan GROOMSMEN: Conor Tennyson, Ciaran Campbell PHOTOGRAPHER: Say Cheese HAIR: Stacey Carberry MAKE-UP: Catherine Fleming FLOWERS: Maura Quinn, Ardboe

Newry Street | Kilkeel | Co Down | T: 028 4176 2315

New Wedding List Service

Check out our new website for browsing, creating and managing wedding lists.

www.weddinglistni.co.uk

Local Women Magazine | 97

Using our architectural skills, the team at Gravity Architects are re-creating workplace layouts to maximise space and safety – and get you back to work With the Covid-19 crisis an ongoing battle, social distancing is of paramount importance. Never has ‘keeping apart to stay together’ been more important. But, as businesses gradually get the green light to reopen, the problem of how to keep employees and customers safe within your workplace is proving problematic.

Going forward businesses need to ensure that safety is the number one priority and a significant change in how we operate as a society is underway.

That’s why you need to ‘future proof’ your business to keep the spread of Covid-19 to a minimum so you can keep trading. But the new social distancing guidance is throwing up a myriad of problems for businesses who operate in confined spaces, or with many staff, or who are customer facing.

That’s where UK and Ireland based Gravity Architects can help you. The team at Gravity Architects are using their specialist design skills to make sure your business is compliant and your staff and customers are safe. Architects work every day to maximise space in small buildings and are perfectly placed to show you space saving ideas. Years of design experience means that Gravity Architects have the ability to find solutions to your problems. They can help with office or shop layouts and show you the space saving tricks of the trade

that will make your business operate more means that we can help you find solutions efficiently while staying safe. to your problems right now.

Liam Nelis said: “Architects test their skills every day working on floor plans of buildings to maximise function and utilise every inch of space. “We are well versed in working to strict guidelines and have the ability to cut through the red tape and get projects moving.

“Many businesses have said they feel their layout means they will never be able to open their doors again – but we believe there is a solution to every problem.

SHORT-TERM SOLUTIONS

MEDIUM-TERM SOLUTIONS

LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS

Our short-term solutions will ensure your business can start to operate at the earliest opportunity whilst maintaining safety for colleagues and customer.

Medium-term solutions will provide an opportunity to start operating with a higher level of staffing whilst maintaining safety and social distancing protocol.

Long-term solutions will maximise your operational opportunities whilst minimising the risk and disruption in the future.

“We will work with you to make your business work. We will ensure that your business is fully compliant with government guidance “There is nothing we love more than a so that we can all get back to work as soon challenge and our years of design skills as possible.”

For more information call on 028 7126 3206 or email Liam at lnelis@gravityarchitects.co.uk

www.gravityarchitects.co.uk 98 | Local Women Magazine

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