Face of Ireland are now seeking nominations for the 2013 Face of Business Awards which take place in Moran's Red Cow Hotel in July. Nominate your favourite business today

Face of Ireland are now seeking nominations for the 2013 Face of Business Awards which take place in Moran's Red Cow Hotel in July. Nominate your favourite business today

It is nearing the end of the first month of 2013 and the first month of my reigning year as Face of Ireland and what a month it has been. When Mr. Brian Cunningham the CEO of Face of Ireland told me things were going to get crazy when we get into the New Year, I don’t think I believed just how quickly the diary would fill up.

After switching on the Christmas lights in my home town of Cavan on the first of December, I went on to have a lovely, peaceful Christmas with my family and friends. Christmas was extra special this year as I looked back on the amazing year I was lucky enough to enjoy. I said a very happy goodbye to 2012 and welcomed in the New Year, with the hope that it will be as brilliant as the year passed.

On the 6th of December I was delighted to be asked to appear on the Local Late Late Show in Ballyshannon. This show hosted by Gerrry Singer was a fantastic night in which I had the opportunity to meet local, Irish politicians, actors, celebrities and enjoy the musical talents of the local Ballyshannon natives. I enjoyed the company of the actor Sean Mc Ginley and his wife Maire and being a big lover of the Irish TV series Love/Hate, I loved hearing all about his different acting roles. I also had great chats with former Tanaiste Mary Coughlan, John Fahy the manager of the great young country legend Nathan Carters, celebrity personality Noel Cunningham, co-owner of Cara pharmacies Canice Nicholas, local radio presenter ‘Big Bernie’ of Ocean FM. It was great to meet the Donegal media also, Gabrielles Diary-Mc Monagle of the Donegal Post, Michael Daly and Thomas Gallagher of the Donegal Democrat. I really enjoyed the night, it was quite surreal sitting on the couch as a guest chatting about my experiences as Face of Ireland, hopefully it is something I will have to get used to! Huge credit has to be extended to Gerry Singer and the lovely Siobhan Mc Geowan for organising such a successful night.

On the Friday the 11th of January, I was so happy to be back at my old university in Galway, NUIG. It was a funny feeling because, exactly this time last year I was strolling round campus attending lectures and spending too much time in the canteen nattering and drinking tea. It just proves you never know what’s around the next door, never in a million years did I think I would be back there to do interviews with the college radio station Flirt.FM and college magazine SIN. It was another first for me as I stepped foot into the radio station. It was really cool. I really enjoyed the interview with presenter Rachel in the studio and the interview with Orla the journalist for SIN magazine.

The first half of this day myself and Brian were asked to a secondary school in Galway to speak about promoting and maintaining positive mental health and suicide awareness and prevention. We spoke to a group Transition Year students and it was one of the most fulfilling moments I have had as Face of Ireland so far. It was great to be back in the classroom standing in front of a class imparting knowledge and advice. The students were so engaged and really mature taking everything we said seriously. I left that talk feeling a real sense of achievement, I feel like we really got the message across to these young people that it is ok, not to be ok and most importantly communication is crucial, staying in contact with their peers in their class can make a real difference to that person, which they may never see. I look forward to more opportunities to promote positive mental health especially among young people. I am passionate about doing my bit to make a difference and I am so thankful to have the opportunity to really do that, as the Face of Ireland.

Monday January the 14th is one day which will stay with me forever. I was honoured with the pride of my county in a civic reception, in Cavan Courthouse. This event was hosted by Cavan County Chairman Paddy O’Reilly and County Manager Jack Keyes. It was one of the happiest moments in my life, to be honoured for my achievements in my own county. I never imagined it. All my family and friends were there is was so special, especially having my grandmother there. It is a time I will never forget. Before the evening, I have to admit that I was slightly apprehensive about it all, I didn’t know what to expect, but it was much more than I ever imagined. Having esteemed representatives of my county coming up and congratulating me on my achievements was such a humbling experience. I hope to live up to and exceed the expectations of these people and represent my county and country in the best light possible in the coming year.

Last Wednesday the 16th of January, I was privileged to be invited to attend the launch of the GRASP (Greater Responsibility and Awareness in Suicide Prevention) Life Foundation smartphone app. This app is an excellent, valuable and vital tool for us all in our fight against suicide. It is a wonderful source of advice and information providing contact numbers for the nearest services, which can provide help for anyone feeling suicidal and for the friends and family of anyone feeling suicidal. It was fantastic day and I was overwhelmed by the fact that it was a young seventeen year old boy, named Adam Harris who created the app. He is testament of the wealth of talent, passion and drive of Irish young people which must be recognised and appreciated. He gave an excellent presentation and will make an outstanding spokesperson for the app. As an ambassador for GRASP, I was so proud to be there to support them and I pledge to continue to do all I can to promote GRASP and the amazing work Mary, Claire, Nolene and their team do on a daily basis in suicide awareness and prevention. The Lions Club in Bray Co. Wicklow must be commended on their financial support for the funding of this app. I look forward to more great events fundraising for and promoting GRASP.

This month also saw me start my driving lessons! I only started two weeks ago however, I have improved greatly and really developed my confidence on the road. It is all thanks to the great Brendan Tierney School of Motoring Sligo who is the ultimate professional and so patient with me. I am really enjoying it and can’t believe I haven’t being half as nervous as I thought I’d be!...probably Brendan’s calming effect. My lessons will continue over the next few weeks and then ‘D’ test day, looming soon…..fingers crossed, but before then we will be having lots of fun as the cameras join us for my lessons and record what an amazing driver I am!! 

I am having the time of my life and I am so eternally grateful for the unwavering support of so many people since I was bestowed this honour back in October. Thank you!

Wow…..what can I say! It is exactly six weeks since I was honoured to have been chosen as the 2013 Face of Ireland Ambassador. It is incredible. I don’t think I have ever had such a busy five weeks in my life.

 Thinking back to the night of the 13^th of October in Moran’s Red Cow Hotel, Dublin (Photo Gallery here) I can still feel the shock and overwhelming happiness when the one and only Mr. Aonghus Mc Anally called out and ‘Our winner is from County Cavan, Annita Brady’. We always wonder how it must feel when we see someone winning any sort of competition on TV and we see the person in complete shock unable to speak. I never thought I would ever feel such exhilaration and that for once I was actually not able to speak…..although that didn’t last too long!!I still can’t find the words to describe the feelings, I guess the only way I could describe it, is a sheer state of disbelief and joy! I remember walking forward hugging Sinead Kerr and Juliana Ayton and congratulating them as they had come second and third. When I saw the reactions of my family on the left hand side of the stage, it was overpowering. They clamoured up onto the stage and almost knocked me over with their joy. It was quite funny with the beautiful flowers and plaque in hands and everyone hugging and congratulating me my stunning Mulliger Crystal tiara almost fell of my head. I was very grateful to one of the judges Aisling Mangan of Inglot Cosmetics for securely placing it on my head. I remember one of the first photographs taken was in between the beautiful judges, Denise Smith journalist with the Sunday World, Aisling Mangan, Jill Wallace the inaugural Face of Ireland, Debbie Allen of Q102 and Jon Jeromes of Europcar. I remember trying to compose myself for the photos and video as the videographer Philip and photographer Derek called my name, although some of the initial photographs captured my immediate reaction, with my forehead all wrinkled in shock! All of the girls were so congratulatory, it meant so much and I remember feeling very exposed as all the attention was now on mw whereas throughout the competition I always had this network of 24 other girls around me.

 I came down off the stage and I will never forget the pride of my two uncles Patsy and Ben in particular, I had never witnessed them so happy in my life. Then my Mam handed me her phone and it was my auntie in New York, I can’t even remember what I said to her or what she said as there was such a commotion going on around me. Another phone was then handed to me and it was my uncle Noel in New York and I remember him saying, ‘I knew you could do it’, after another brief conversation with my other aunt Rose, I was led out by Pierce to do my first ever interview as the Face of Ireland for Sky. I can’t remember what I said, it was all very surreal! Then I went off to the room where a mere seven hours earlier I had sat in front of the judges for an individual interview. Myself and the videographers Philip and Niamh Guckian had a laugh and I remember there was a map of the world behind me during the interview, as a Geography teacher I was very happy about this of course and as a History teacher the fact that the map was an old world map compounded my joy…hilarious I know that I noticed the map! When we finished the interview and Philip said ‘we are going to have so much fun with you this year’. It was at that moment that I realised these interviews and this excitement was going to continue for the rest of the year. The sit down chat with Brian later on in the night when the hotel was long deserted was surreal, we discussed my homecoming celebration plans…..was this actually happening?!

When I got back to the family they had taken over the residence bar and their happiness remained palpable! The taxi ride back with my Mam and auntie Kathleen serenading me to the ‘Cavan Girl’ song is a moment I will never forget. Upon arriving into my aunties estate as typical ‘culchies’ from the country they were all cheering until my boyfriend Darragh reminded us we were in the ‘big shmoke’ now, we were going to wake up the neighbours at 6am in the morning!! Champagne was popped open at 6.30am and my uncle Brian had somehow managed to record the reactions of the rest of my mad family as they flipped chairs and my Mam screamed ‘Cancel the taxi, cancel the taxi!’ After about 7am and the beds were laid down around the house although, I don’t think there was much sleeping done. Myself and Darragh got back to his house and woke his parents at 7.30, we then made the journey down to Cavan deciding there was absolutely no point in trying to go to sleep after the madness of the night! We sang our hearts out all the way down the road, if anyone had have seen us me with the crown still firmly planted on my head, I am sure they would have made a quick 999 call!! I think we really took out when The Script’s new single ‘Hall of Fame’ came on, a song which will forever remain my Face of Ireland song. This is because, on the morning of the final as Darragh drove me over to Moran’s Red Cow hotel this was the song which was on the radio and he said ‘if you win this will be your song!’ I must take this opportunity to give a huge thanks to Moran’s Hotel at the Red Cow for the brilliant service and food we received not only on the night of the final but also on the days we met up before the final.

We got home and I think I slept for about an hour…if even, I remember the tiara was sitting on the dressing table and I just lay there looking at it. I was unbelievably honoured that the judges believed I was capable of taking on such a prestigious role. I had the most amazing experience during the whole journey leading up to the Face of Ireland. I met the most talented, beautiful, personable girls, girls I now consider close friends.       

Sunday was a very special day as the first place I visited was my Grandmother’s. When I arrived all my family were there, all my aunties, uncles and cousins. It was such a special moment coming into to my Nanna in my dress with the tiara and sash on. She is my biggest fan and always has been in everything I do. She looked after me since I was a baby and we have such a special bond, I was so happy to make her proud especially since she had told everybody about me in the competition. I remember my wee four year old cousin Grace just sitting there looking up at the tiara on my head, mesmerised. She was so cute and when she tried on the tiara and my auntie took a photograph she just kept looking at the phone! The phone call from Ed Darragh was also one I won’t forget as she explained what an exciting year I had ahead of me.

The week was madness, it was all systems go as we prepared for my homecoming the following Sunday! There were so many people who gave me unwavering support that week. The local publican of The Stray Sod Eamonn Denning was unreal, taking calls from me every minute and ensuring everything was organised to a ‘T’, from banners to bands, he was wonderful. The same has to be said for my dear primary school teacher and principal ‘Master’ Michael Conaty, for the beautiful sign from all at St. Mary’s National School, the lovely cards from all the students and all their kind words of support and congratulations. I think one of the most memorable moments from that week has to be going into my old school to deafening cheers from all the students and all the Junior Infant students running around calling me a princess! I remember those special days when visitors would come into the school and we’d get out of class and get no homework, how delighted I was to now be that visitor and the one to ensure no homework for the whole school! I remember the Monday night my best friends Andrea and Melissa came up to the house and they were ecstatic for me, we went through the beautiful hampers and admired the stunning jewellery I received from Orchid Jewellery.

The first ever interview I did was on Tuesday with Rebecca on Q102 which went really well. She put me at such ease and I just nattered on! Seeing my photograph and article on the front page of my local newspaper, The Anglo Celt on Thursday was so strange and exciting as the headline truly hit me, Sky would be in Drung in less than two days!!

The day of my homecoming celebrations (Photo Gallery here) was in the title of ‘Take That’s’ song the ‘Greatest Day of my Life’. That may sound clique but honestly it is a day I will never forget as long as I live. I have never experienced the most overwhelming pride to be from the small village of Drung in County Cavan. Everyone from the community came out to celebrate with me and it meant so much to have such huge support.

The day started off with getting our hair and makeup done, myself my sister Aoife, my mother and my Grandmother. It was a special bonding time for us all and we had so much fun getting the ultimate pampering and beautification by the extremely professional Samantha Crowe my hairdresser for years and local beautician Charlene Monaghan, both of whom I am so grateful to, for working on a Sunday too. Back home my auntie Caroline was an absolute treasure to have around that morning making breakfast, ironing shirts and the like. I couldn’t wait to put on my dress and once I had slipped into it the time wasn’t long ticking on!

One by one all my family, friends and neighbours arrived and the camera began flashing. I was absolutely blessed the weather was divine, dry and surprisingly warm for an October day. I am sure my Grandad and good friend Margaret were pulling a few strings up there to ensure the sun was shining and there wasn’t a drop of rain all day. Then the man himself, Mr. Brian Cunningham spun up the lane and the real action begun as he had the pro’s in toe….Derek Mc Auley and Michael Mc Loughlin, the photographers both whom captured stunning photographs of everyone special in my life. The Sky camera crew Pauric and Catriona deserve a big thank you too, for recording interviews with all those closest to me. Hearing the words of my parents Teresa and Frank, brother Donnachadh, sister Aoife, Grandmother Annie and boyfriend Darragh were really special moments, especially my Grandmother who at eighty-five spoke eloquently….a true lady.

Arriving at my primary school with all the students in their uniforms was amazing. I cannot thank them and their parents enough for making the effort to dress their children for school on a Sunday and come out and support me! Then it was across the road to our local pub and never before and probably never again will I witness such a mass of jubilant people. It was euphoric seeing the effort of family and friends coming from far and wide to celebrate with me. Getting announced and welcomed into my local pub was something….it was unreal, having an entire pub full of people all singing Bruno Mars ‘Amazing’ to me was magical! The band Phil and Cossie and the DJ ‘Daz’ are owed a big thanks. I was overwhelmed with emotion and was more proud of where I come from than ever before, it planted a seed of desire in me to continue to make all these people, ‘my’ people proud of me, to do everything I can to represent them in the best possible light and do everything in my power to help them in any way I can. Three very important guests also attended on the day, Mayor of Cavan town Des Cullen, County Council Chairman Paddy Reilly, and local politician Brendan Smith. Each of these esteemed guests gave powerful speeches and I was unbelievably grateful that each one of them gave up their Sunday afternoon to share in this very special occasion with me. The interviews with my three best friends Andrea Curran, Melissa Crowe and Katie Fennelly were both memorable and entertaining as they praised me and revealed my embarrassing stories on camera, some of which I had forgotten…..and for good reason!! The day was made special by another dear friend Stephanie O’ Reilly, another Cavan girl from the competition who came to share my day and brought her little bundle of joy along also! I have to extend another very special thank you to Susan Curran, Ann Galligan and Rosemary Johnson for selling tickets for the raffle we held in aid of the suicide prevention and awareness charity GRASP Greater Responsibility and Awareness of Suicide Prevention.  

 The rest of the day was so much fun, we danced, we talked, we laughed and I went home that night bursting with happiness and pride unable to sleep!

The following Tuesday I graduated from my Professional Diploma in Education and received my degree which was another special day for myself and my family. On the Thursday, I had my first ever photoshoot, (Photo Gallery here) to say I was nervous would have been an understatement but I was also extremely excited! I didn’t know what to expect but decided to just go with it! Niamh Guckian was there to catch all the fun on camera and Derek Mc Auley photographed me. I was so happy to hear it was with both of these not only because, they are two of the top professionals in their field but also because, I knew I would have fun with them…..and fun we had! Another photographer Eimear Collins and makeup artist Sarah Lavelle Becker were also present for the day, with Sarah fabulousing my face! The shoots were so much fun, each was so different and unique and I was surprised at how ‘in character’ I was able to become. This was definitely thanks to the clear direction of Derek who has a seriously sharp eye for what will look good, fantastic photographer I recommend him to everyone! I was amazed at how each photograph looked so different from professional to dark and mysterious to Christmassey, I had to do a double take that one, it was actually me and two, I was the same person! We all had so much fun including my Mam, it was so nice to share such a nice day with her and she became emotional at times which was so touching. I couldn’t believe by the end of the shoot four hours had passed, it felt like four minutes….. ‘Time flies when you’re having fun!’

My first official event, I am very happy to say was in my hometown of County Cavan, I was asked to present prizes at the Virginia Pumpkin Festival (Photo Gallery here), an annual Pumpkin Festival held in the town of Virginia in County Cavan which began a few years ago and is gaining momentum year after year! The pumpkins were quite literally ‘hugely impressive’! They weighed hundreds of pounds and came from around the world including as far away as Austria and Germany! It was an honour to present the prizes to the victorious pumpkin growers who grew the largest and heaviest pumpkins. Posing for photographs with the Olympic medallist boxer John Joe Nevin was another ‘pinch me quick’ moment. It was a freezing cold, wet day however, I was too excited to even feel the cold.  I also presented the prizes to the winners of the Fancy Dress later that night with Iradio DJ Fergal Darcy spinning the decks.

Later that week, on the first of November I was honoured to launch the inaugural ‘Taste of Cavan’ event in the Hotel Kilmore with the Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney. It was ‘foodtastic’ event and has a raging success. It showcased all the very best of locally produced food by Cavan businesses and it was empowering for both local businesses and Cavan people to see exactly what we have on our very doorstep. I was also privileged to have the opportunity to present the prizes to the winning students of the Cavan Schools Cook-off competition. It was a very important event for me personally as it marked the beginning of a pivotal element of my year, promoting local and national business, something I believe in and hope to pursue wholeheartedly. I think more than ever in these economic times it is critical that we promote indigenous enterprise.

I cannot thank the Face of Ireland team enough for securing me a place on Irish.tv’s TV presenting course in Westport, Co. Mayo  on the 17^th and 18^th of November. We had a lovely stay at the Mill Times hotel. It was a fantastic weekend with lots of laughs and excellent teaching. Pierce and his team, Mairead, Edel, Klaus, Amanda and Eric gave a brilliant course sharing their expertise with us and picking on our little quirks and ensuring we nipped them in the bud before we got in front of the camera. Their advice was invaluable and I have a huge appreciation for every presenter and all the little things they have to remember when presenting. Hearing from the pro’s in the field, Darragh McCullough presenter on ‘Ear to the Ground’ and Tony McCabe whose voice is very well known across Ireland, as he does numerous voiceovers, most notably the voiceover for on the Iarnrod Eireann trains. It was a wonderful weekend and the craic was surely had with Face of Ireland CEO Brian Cunningham, Siobhan, Pauric and Noreen and with all the rest of the participants on the course who I had the pleasure of meeting. Here’s hoping I will be putting my newly acquired skills to use very soon!!:)  

From the wild West, I made my way to the midlands namely Athlone, where I completed a Mental Health Awareness Training course run by Linda and Finola. The course was excellent and extremely informative. It was very important for me to complete as I will be promoting the suicide awareness and prevention charity GRASP this year. It gave me a greater understanding of ways in which each one of us can promote positive mental health. Most of the other participants were older than me and work in the social care field and it was really beneficial and interesting for me to hear their experiences and perspectives.

It has been all go for the past six weeks and it looks set to continue that way for the coming weeks and into the New Year. I am delighted to be switching on the Christmas lights in my hometown this Saturday! I am looking forward to a jam packed New Year of activity kicking off with my driving lessons in January. I am so nervous and excited at the same time! I can’t wait to appear on Ballyshannon’s own Celebrity Late Late Show in early January with all the proceeds of the show going to GRASP Life Foundation. Theres all these fantastic events and of course the most exciting month in the calendar….and no not just because, it’s my birthday….I will be launching the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the city that never sleeps, New York’s Fifth Avenue! Even as I write this, I don’t think it has hit me it is the biggest honour of my life to have the opportunity to represent Ireland on the international stage! I can’t believe it!

This has been the craziest and greatest six weeks of my life and I’m so excited about the rest of the year. I hope you can follow me on this amazing journey as Face of Ireland Ambassador on facebook, twitter and faceofireland.com   

Press Release
Face of Ireland competition to feature on SKY TV

Amazing and talented young ladies from right around the island of Ireland will feature on Sky TV on Thursday November 8th with a crew from IRISH TV filming at the prestigious Face of Ireland competition in Dublin recently. The celebrated Face of Ireland competition each year seeks to unearth a new ‘face of Ireland’ to represent the country as an International ambassador at important events around the globe.  This year’s winner will partake in the world renowned 2013 St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City.

Speaking about the SKY TV coverage, Brian Cunningham CEO of Face of Ireland stated that it was fantastic to get international television exposure for these young and talented ladies from all different walks of life.  “We were delighted to have IRISH TV cover the Face of Ireland Competition this year for their SKY TV show as it brings great prestige to the competition.  Face of Ireland is all about promoting what is genuine and real about Ireland and IRISH TV gives us that global TV platform to tell our story.  Of course there can only be one winner but all the girls in the competition are fantastic and really deserve the exposure,” commented Cunningham.

Europcar’s Face of Ireland competition is now regarded as one of Ireland’s leading and most popular ambassadorial competitions.  The nationwide competition attracts thousands of entrants each year.  The 2012 campaign will assist several charities including a newly formed charitable organisation ‘GRASP’ (Greater Responsibility and Awareness, Suicide, Prevention) set up to highlight the issues of mental health and suicide in Ireland.

“We are delighted that the Face of Ireland chose our group this year. Obviously suicide is becoming an increasingly serious issue in Ireland today so we need to encourage people to talk about their problems and mental health. The TV exposure on SKY TV and on www.irishtv.ie to a global will certainly also help our campaign,” commented GRASP founder Mary McTiernan.  The 2012 winner of the Face of Ireland competition Annita Brady said she was ‘shocked and delighted’ after picking up her crown at the Red Cow Hotel in Dublin.  Speaking to IRISH TV in her native village of Drung, in Co. Cavan she said it was a great honour to represent her country.

“It’s been a whirl wind experience. I’ve had such a good time taking part in the competition and meeting the other girls. I’m so proud now to represent my parish of Drung, Co. Cavan and Ireland. 2013 is a really exciting year for Ireland in terms of tourism, especially with The Gathering and I want to promote the country as much as possible. I know I can also really help make a difference and fundraise for GRASP. Suicide is such a massive issue in Ireland at the moment and I am so happy that the Face of Ireland competition is doing its part to bring that issue into the spotlight,” commented Annita Brady, winner of 2013 Face of Ireland competition.

All the highlights from this year’s Face of Ireland competition will feature on Sky TV Channel 191/Freesat 400 this Thursday, November 8th, at 9pm and can also be viewed on www.irishtv.ie.

ENDS
More information – IRISHTV 098-56582

As the 2013 Face of Ireland Ambassador, I represent my local community, county and country nationally and internationally and showcase Ireland in its best light. I hope to work with local and national businesses boosting their profile. I also hope to work with The Gathering 2013 and attract as many people to Ireland as possible and sell Ireland as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. I will do everything in my power to fund raise for charities and in particular the newly formed charity GRASP (Greater Responsibility and Awareness in Suicide Prevention). I want to do everything in my power to promote and educate people in positive mental health and fund raise as much as possible for this very worthy cause.

My name is Aoife Mc Daid and I am from Derry. I’m 18 years old and am currently a student at Thornhill College. I am doing my A Levels which I will hopefully do well enough in to get to Queens University to study nursing. From this degree I would then like to go on to become a midwife. I love singing and am classically trained. I am currently the Face of Derry and Miss Global Ireland which is a huge honour and I was privileged to represent our country in Jamaica in September.

I have extremely enjoyed this competition so far, the contest is so fierce but after meeting al the girls I have come to know them and realise how lovely they all are. The whole team has been amazing and super helpful. We were given a task of promoting ourselves and the competition in local papers and radio stations, which was super fun. It was so fun getting myself out there and known. It has added to my excitement for what is to come in the next week and made me realise I’m competing to represent my country again. I’ve done it once before and now I just really want to do it again, its something I’ve become passionate about

I got into music from a young age, i actually think i was singing before i could talk, even from a young age i always wanted the lime light and i think this is why the face of ireland was something i wanted to do. I act in school plays and love putting myself out there.

I can't think of anything particularly funny off my head, more things that are embarrassing hahaha, but I'm a funny person and I'm not afraid to be myself! 

Hello, my name is Aisling Lanigan and I am 19 years old. I have the privilege of being one of Tyrone’s representatives in the Face of Ireland in Association with Europcar. Firstly I would like to say a big thank you to everyone at Local Women Magazine for enriching experiences through interviews and photo shoots, not only am I grateful for this but also for their sponsorship in the competition and continued support throughout.

Face of Ireland in Association with Europcar has been a fantastic and exciting experience from the beginning where it all started with a simple Facebook message from the beautiful O’Donnell ladies, Marie and Aimee. In this message they told me a bit about the competition from Aimee’s personal experiences from the previous year and they invited me to meet them for an interview where we immediately hit it off! Although at first with my hectic schedule with my A-Levels I was somewhat reluctant on whether or not to get involved, but once the interview with Marie and Aimee was over those doubts and uncertainties had been erased completely and I knew this was an opportunity I had to grab with both hands. It was the idea of meeting new girls in a similar position but vastly different to myself, sharing experiences, gain confidence in my own ability in public speaking and performing as well as the possibility of representing my county which really sold the competition to me.  So it was then that I progressed as a contestant in the Face of Tyrone where the final was to be held in the Glenavon House Hotel in Cookstown. Thankfully, as Aimee knew first hand how daunting the idea of it all could be on the girls they held a meet and greet night in Moes in Cookstown which gave all of the girls a chance to meet each other and meet Marie’s lovely husband Jimmy, who was also heavily involved especially in the Face of Tyrone Final. The meet and greet night was held on Friday 20^th April, I found this a great opportunity to meet all the other girls and begin to anticipate and look forward to the Face of Tyrone final.

The Face of Tyrone final was held on Sunday the 29^th of April in the Glenavon House Hotel in Cookstown,  my lovely sponsor for the Face of Tyrone was Amanda Mitchell who owns U.R. Beautiful based in Tattyreagh. The day started off at 9am with an interview with the judges, after this all the girls got pampered by local beauticians and hair stylists which I absolutely loved, what girl wouldn’t! Following the pampering each girl got the chance to take part in a video interview with Philip Boyle, this interview gave me an insight into what it is like to be on camera, I am thankful for this as working in the TV industry is something I have always dreamt of. Next on the day’s agenda was the photo shoots where we had individual and group photo’s taken, by this point the final was growing closer and a mixture of nerves and excitement had started to kick in. Appreciatively the Glenavon House Hotel provided all the girls with a lunch before the show which was delicious to say the least. Showtime soon arrived and before I knew it support for all the girls had started to appear, we were ready in our evening wear with our hair and makeup done for the final. It all happened so fast and I was very eager to get on stage with the magnificent Deric Hartigan from TV3, which is an experience I will never forget. On stage Deric asked me questions on my ambitions, fears, family and friends as well as how I got involved in it all, it must be said he really made me feel very much at ease on stage. After the chat with Deric, I sang a song which is very close to my heart and many others, The Parting Glass. This was quite an emotional experience but one I will always treasure! It was then time for the judges to make a very difficult decision on who should progress to the Face of Ireland Final, I feel that the format the competition followed is brilliant and made the judging very fair as they had the opportunity to get to know all of the girls individually which really hones in on the ambassadorial aspect of the Face of Ireland ethos. After some time the judge’s decision was announced and I was delighted to learn that I would be representing Tyrone as a wildcard in the Face of Ireland in Association with Europcar in Dublin.

As one of the finalists on the 2^nd of September I went to the Moran’s Red Cow Hotel in Dublin where the final would be held on the 13^th of October. This was to be the finalists Entrepreneurial Task Day where I met all of the other finalists and also the executive producer Ed Darragh. We each had to introduce ourselves and tell the girls a little bit about our lives, I found this to be very inspiring as each and every one of the girls really have very different stories, outlooks on life and amazing personal experiences, I most definitely took so much away from this day and really am looking forward to meeting them all again on the Press Release day on Sunday the 30th of September!

Having moved to Birmingham to study Speech and Language Therapy has really opened my eyes to the beauty and warmth that Ireland has to offer to everyone, not only fellow Irish people but to everyone who visits the country. This has also allowed me to see firsthand many aspects of such a successful city as is Birmingham industrially and has given me ideas on how Ireland can develop as it has the potential, I believe to be world leaders in many areas. This competition promotes everything there is Irish and I am so proud to not only be Irish but also be a part of this fantastic competition. Birmingham itself is a fantastic city with endless opportunities but home will always be Ireland!

I would also like to take this opportunity to say a special thank you to a few very important people and companies such as Q101.2 and Stevie King for taking the time to go on air for a live radio interview about the Face of Ireland. Thank you to the Tyrone Constitution newspaper and journalist Robert Pollock for publishing a lovely article on my involvement in the competition, but none of this could be possible without Brian Cunningham and the amazing team at Face of Ireland in Association with Europcar, to you all I am so thankful for everything!

I would also like to include that not only has this competition been an amazing personal experience and one I have so many memories from already but has also been a great chance to get involved in many wonderful charities. The Face of Ireland in Association with Europcar is not just about the girls and one night in October but has so much more to offer to communities all over Ireland, it was the aspect of raising money and awareness for so many charities and a variety of issues that makes this competition what it is. This year’s competition will assist several charities both well known and new such as GRASP (Greater Responsibility & Awareness, Suicide, Prevention) which was set up to assist and deal with people with suicidal thoughts and also to families who have had a member attempt or commit suicide. I would hope to remain involved in the various charity organisations which have been brought to my attention through this competition in the future. The work they do is truly inspirational and have changed my perspective on life!

The opportunities available from Face of Ireland in association with Europcar are fantastic. The prizes on offer to the winner provide once in a life experiences that will live with her always. To represent my country on St Patrick’s Day in New York would be an honour and privilege. To be able to represent my country on the world stage is something dreams are made of and I hope I can make a difference to our great nation.

Hope to see you all in Moran’s Red Cow Hotel in Dublin on Saturday the 13^th of October for what is guaranteed to be a night to remember!

As a result of over 30,000 contestants applying for The Face of Ireland competition, we are currently seeking enthusiastic and motivated B2B sales representatives as we continue to expand. This is a highly beneficial commission based remuneration package. The company have a fantastic growth plan and are operating within a dynamic and exciting industry of television and live events. There are also significant longer term progression opportunities within the organisation. 2 years experience in Sales essential. Email us with your CV, photo and contact details to press.faceofireland@live.ie

 Ciara Quinn on 5th Avenue USA at the New York St Patrick's Day Parade with Parade Boss Hilary Beirne, The Xavier HS Regiment from Manhattan, NYC., and 2.5million of her closet friends. Fact: 250,000 marched in the parade and 2.5 million spectators lined the streets to watch the world's biggest parade..... in glorious sunshine (68 degrees)....

Quick note of thanks to cameraman Philip Boyle, Photographer Michael Chester, Europcar Exec Jon Jerromes, Fiona & Darren at Rogue Model Management.... for a job well done this morning filming Ciara's Farewell at Terminal 2 Dublin Airport ....Ciara's now flying high on a 747 heading west to New York to represent The Face of Ireland at this year's St Patrick's Day Parade New York... Ciara can look forward to a fun filled action packed 5 days and nights schmoozing with New York's finest and elite...from Presidents to movie stars... We'll have some story to tell when she returns next Tuesday.....in the meantime this morning's footage will be up here in a few days..... watch this space.....

http://youtu.be/lePIgYTTuL4

Footage of Ciara's Civic Reception at Europcar Terminal 2 Dublin Airport yesterday as she headed out to New York to represent The Face of Ireland at the New York St Patrick's Day Parade. Seen here chatting with Europcar Corporate Manager Jon Jerromes. Ciara will be reporting from the steps of St Patrick's Cathedral (51st Street NY)..Also in this report we speak to Round 1 Wildcard Leanne Hore who helped see Ciara Off.... Brian Cunningham chats with Rogue Model Management Boss Fiona Roche about Ciara's New York Itinerary which includes several star studded events she'll be attending. Cameraman Philip Boyle, Photographer Michael Chester, Report by Ed Darragh ..... more to follow.....

Face of Ireland Sponsor - Orchid Jewels  - Online e-Store Now Open; If you're looking for something to buy your mum for Mother's Day (19th March) you're sure to find some stunning pieces of dazzling, affordable crystal jewellery, incorporating Swarovski Elements.

When you purchase on line you can expect your Orchid Jewels within 5-7 days

Click here to buy

http://www.orchidjewels.biz/

Orchid Jewels is the brainchild of former Fair City actor Martina Flynn who is best remembered for her role as tough business executive, Anne Clarke; a part Martina thoroughly enjoyed but Martina and Anne could not be more different. For Martina Flynn Fitzgerald family comes first.  Martina took a career break to be mum to both her wonderful children, Naoise and Tom. On Valentines Day Martina and husband Bernard celebrated 14 years blissful marriage.

Home Delivery

....Leanne Hore from Co. Wexford will be joining The current Ambassador Ciara Quinn at Dublin Airport on Wednesday 14th March for a celebratory reception to wave off Ciara on her trip to join The New York St Patrick's Day Parade...well done Leanne....well deserved! The next heat will be held at Morans Red Cow Hotel...Friday 20th April.... for details on how to enter go to http://FaceOfIreland.com

FINAL CLUE "The wild card 'Face' is really very bright....she guessed it was herself from clues up to last night... so now we have some time before we film - her true delight..... watch this space for her name in black and white.... " The full name and details of winning wildcard will be announced here over the next few days.... congrats ~~,

Tune into Midweek tonight on TV3...Europcar Face of Ireland 2012 Ambassador Garda Ciara Quinn will be chatting to Colette Fitzpatrick - tonight's topic is Models and their 'Day Jobs'.....Hello Hello Hello!....( a front cover would be good!) we'll have the link up here in the morning - in case you miss it tonight....

CLUE No. 4.... As Candidates wait to hear who the Wildcard is.. One lucky girl can expect our film crew to arrive at the gate - this Friday 24th February! We will be dropping clues here...right across the week; as to the location of where the Wildcard lives... today's clue is... "When the bell tolls this card will go wild...."  See you Friday!

http://europcar.ie

http://FaceOfIreland.com

Stop NEWS... Ciara Quinn's TV3 Appearance on Midweek with Colette Fitzpatrick which was due to go out tonight ...is ...leaping.... forward to next Wednesday 29th February....same time....

CLUE No. 3.... As Candidates wait to hear who the Wildcard is.. One lucky girl can expect our film crew to arrive at her door - this Friday 24th February! We will be dropping clues here...right across the week; as to the location of where the Wildcard lives... today's clue is... "it's no secret that the valley is close to her heart...." good luck!

CLUE No. 2.... As Candidates wait to hear who the Wildcard is.. One lucky girl can expect our film crew to arrive at her door - this Friday 24th February! We will be dropping clues here...right across the week; as to the location of where the Wildcard lives... today's clue is... "And beyond the pale.... you can see a windmill that once stood tall on Vinegar Hill....."   good luck!

TV nerves? Piece of cake after being in front of judge, says model garda Ciara

By Laura Butler

Saturday February 18 2012

MODEL garda Ciara Quinn has revealed that standing up in court to give evidence in front of a judge and jury has helped her with TV appearances since becoming the Face of Ireland.

The Meath native told the Herald that her day job was the best preparation she could ask for when it comes to performing well in telly interviews as a pageant queen.

Ciara, who is based at Store Street garda station in the city centre, said: "I don't get nervous doing TV interviews at all. I've done a good few now.

"I'm used to getting up in court on a regular basis giving evidence in front of large crowds and a judge and to me, that's more nerve wrecking than doing television."

The 26-year-old beauty added: "Working on something like Xpose would be the dream job, to be surrounded by all that glamour all the time. But I don't think I'd leave my current position for anything, it's a long-term job and being in the Garda Siochana was always something I wanted to do."

But the brunette added she will still continue modelling, even when she gives over her Face of Ireland crown in October.

"I'm building in confidence and training myself for catwalk shows and editorial work.

"There are a couple of exciting things in the pipeline and I've a number of castings coming up, so it's all going great at the moment -- I'm excited about it."

Ciara recently signed to the books of new agency Rogue Model Management and is preparing to jet off to the US next month, to feature in the famous New York City St Patrick's Day parade.

The model, who is engaged to Mark Murphy (28), from Cork, will enjoy a seven-day stay in a top hotel in Manhattan before taking part in the festival extravaganza.

"Myself and Mark are going over for a week on March 14 and on the day I'm going to be in the actual parade. It's all quite top secret at the moment but it'll be wonderful -- I've never done anything like that before."

Due to Ciara's hectic schedule with both her policing the capital and her modelling role, she and Mark have been forced to delay their nuptials until next year.

labutler@herald.ie

The suspense deepens as a dozen or more of the 1st round Candidates wait to hear who the Wildcard is. After much deliberation the Face of Ireland Team have just come out of the Wildcard Selection Meeting and their decision has been made...One lucky girl can expect our film crew to arrive at your home this day week - Friday 24th February? We will be dropping clues right here across the week...as to the location of where the Wildcard lives... the first clue is...."Beyond a secret garden lies a little pale"....

http://europcar.ie

http://FaceOfIreland.com

Heartfelt thanks to Martina Fallon at Beverly Hills Galway for the stunning dresses Face of Ireland Ambassador Ciara Quinn picked up from their Galway Branch last week. Here are just some of the Beverly Hills dresses Ciara can be seen wearing in recent public appearances;

TV3 The Morning Show
http://www.tv3.ie/videos.php?show_cal=2&newspanel&showspanel=1&locID=1.65.370&date_mode=1&date=2011-11-29

Kildare.TV http://bcove.me/ptidb3yk

for more see http://Youtube.com/FaceOFIrl

Web: www.beverlyhillsgalway.com Tel/Fax: +353 (0)91 533 849

http://bcove.me/ptidb3yk

Kildare.TV sent Jennifer Drennan to meet the girls who have taken part in the first round of “The Face of Ireland”. Jen catches up with the girls to see how they are coping with their nerves. She speaks to show creator Brian Cunningham and also finds out what advice they have been seeking from pervious winner Ciara Quinn. For more information about The face of Ireland visit http://www.faceofireland.com Call us Kildare TV on 045 848848