Meet the 2024 International Roses
The Rose of Tralee returns to the Kingdom from August 16th - August 20th. Roses representing Ireland and abroad will take to the stage at the Dome in the Kerry Sports Academy at the MTU on August 19th and 20th.
The 2024 International Rose Centres this year are: Cavan, Chicago, Cork, Derry, Donegal, Dubai, Dublin, Florida, Galway, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Leitrim, London, Louth, Melbourne, Monaghan, Newfoundland & Labrador, New York, North Carolina, New Zealand, Ohio, Perth, Roscommon, San Francisco, Sligo, Sydney, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, Wicklow and Yorkshire.
Cavan Rose
Grace Farrelly
Cavan Rose
Grace Farrelly
Hello, my name is Grace Farrelly, I’m 20 and I am the 2024 Cavan Rose. I am currently studying Sociology and English in Maynooth University, hoping to go on and become a secondary school teacher. I also work in Cavan General Hospital at the weekends when I’m home from college and during the holidays. My hobbies include singing, travelling, reading and cooking. I have two brothers Andrew and Leon and I am the middle child. My ambitions in life are to see as much of the world as I can, while I can! I hope to pursue a career in teaching as I have a passion for English and would like to share my passion with children to help them develop a love for it, like I did with the help of my brilliant teachers when I was in school. I love to read and have a particular love for poetry with some of my favourite poets being Adrienne Rich, Sylvia Plath and Emily Dickinson. I am so honoured to represent the great county of Cavan in this wonderful competition, and I am so thankful for this amazing opportunity.
Chicago Rose
Megan Cahill
Chicago Rose
Megan Cahill
My name is Megan, I’m 29 and I’m honored to be the 2024 Chicago Rose. I grew up in a large Irish family with four siblings and 41 first cousins, and I developed a strong connection to my Irish heritage at an early age. My Irish roots hail from counties Cork and Clare, and I still have cousins living in Dublin City. I hold an undergraduate degree in Finance and a law degree from the University of Illinois. Currently, I work as an attorney at a financial company in downtown Chicago. I was a former competitive Irish dancer and 10-time World Qualifier, which allowed me to travel to Ireland many times. Recently, my travels to Ireland include running the Dublin City Marathon, one of five marathons I’ve completed. I love being active and am an adventurist at heart, enjoying hiking, skiing, surfing, and golfing! Being involved in the vibrant Irish culture in Chicago is a passion of mine. I’m on the board of The Young Irish Fellowship Club, volunteer at Old St. Patrick’s Church, and am a member of the 2023 and 2024 Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Queen’s Court. I’m so thankful for this opportunity and will cherish it forever!
Cork Rose
Shauna O'Sullivan
Cork Rose
Shauna O'Sullivan
My name is Shauna, I’m 25, and I am honoured and delighted to be representing the Rebel County as this year’s Cork Rose. I’m a native of Araglen, a vibrant rural community, bordering Cork, Waterford, and Tipperary, but rest assured, I am a proud Cork woman. My mother and father hail from North and West Cork respectively, and I am the eldest of four. Last year I graduated from University College Cork with a Master’s degree in Pharmacy. I work in my hometown of Fermoy and occasionally as a locum pharmacist, which allows me to meet wonderful people from all around the county. I take pride in this role and feel privileged to be making a positive difference in the communities in which I serve. My family are avid participants in all local events. I have been reared with a strong sense of community spirit. I am the vice-treasurer of the local carnival committee, a long-standing festival now in its 67th year. I consider myself a friendly, bubbly and enthusiastic person, who loves a chat (a dominant family trait!) over a cup of Barry’s Tea. I lead an active lifestyle by going to the gym or walking whenever I can.
Derry Rose
Darcy Taylor
Derry Rose
Darcy Taylor
Hi, My name is Darcy Taylor, and I am from the small village of Bellaghy in County Derry. I am 25 years old and proud to be representing my county as the 2024 Derry Rose. I studied a BA in Drama at Ulster University in Derry and went on to complete my Masters in Media and Broadcast Production at Queens University Belfast. I have been fortunate enough to work on some great television programmes including Rare Breed, Saol Na Feirme and Rip Off Britian. I am currently employed at BBC Radio Foyle, and I love hearing people’s stories, achievements, and all about the great work they do in their communities. I’m particularly interested in working with women who have experienced conflict in war and telling their stories. Outside of my work I love sewing, reading, and watching documentaries. I’m really looking forward to meeting all the fantastic Roses and hearing their wonderful stories. My philosophy, which I encourage all young girls to follow, is in the words of the great Seamus Heaney... “We should keep our feet on the ground to signify nothing is beneath us, but we should always lift up our eyes to say nothing is beyond us.”
Donegal Rose
Niamh Shevlin
Donegal Rose
Niamh Shevlin
I’m Niamh, I’m 27 years old and I was born and raised in Donegal. I have a passion for Irish dance, teaching, and travel. My twin brother and I started Irish dancing at age 4, performing globally as ‘The Shevlin Twins.’ In 2018, I joined Michael Flatley’s ‘Lord of the Dance,’ and performed the female lead role of ‘Saoirse’ for 5 years. I regularly perform with the cast of Riverdance and have travelled to over 50 countries on 6 continents with my dancing. Having many dreams realized, I now aim to pass on my passion for Irish dance to younger generations. I have recently qualified as a primary school teacher, and I teach young children in schools around the county. My teaching has also expanded to Africa. After traveling to Uganda in March 2023 with Irish Aid, I began teaching weekly online lessons, aiming to ignite a passion for Irish dance in children from the world’s poorest regions.
Dubai Rose
Ciara O'Sullivan
Dubai Rose
Ciara O'Sullivan
My name is Ciara, I’m 27, and I am delighted to represent Dubai in the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival. I’m a secondary school Irish and mathematics teacher from Newmarket, Co. Cork, and I’m currently on career break from St Mary’s Secondary School in Mallow. I made the move to Dubai last August to explore new horizons. I’m teaching at Hartland International School, where I’m the deputy head of the mathematics department. I love socialising, and have a passion for health, wellness and sport. As a football player with Club Abhainn Dalla, I was delighted to join Dubai Celts GAA, immersing myself in the Irish community abroad. I enjoy coaching basketball, both in Ireland and now in Dubai. A highlight was leading my school basketball team to All-Ireland success.As a Gaeilgeoir, my lifelong passion for Irish language, music, and culture remains a cornerstone of my identity. Whether it’s through playing the harp, or conversing in Irish, I am dedicated to preserving and promoting our rich heritage and look forward to celebrating our Irish culture even further with the Roses in Tralee.
Dublin Rose
Casey Harris
Dublin Rose
Casey Harris
Hi! I’m Casey, a 24-year-old singer and music teacher from Finglas, North Dublin. I am so excited to be representing my home as this year’s Dublin Rose! Having grown up with the biggest love for music, I pursued my passion by completing a degree in Commercial Modern Music at BIMM Dublin, graduating in 2022. You’ll rarely find me not singing, but I especially enjoy gigging with my band, The Ratzingers. I also share my passion through my work as a music teacher and vocal coach, running my own vocal academy in Finglas and teaching music in primary schools around North Dublin with Music Generation. I find my job incredibly fulfilling, and I love to see people of all ages build their confidence through music. Music aside, I love to travel the world with my lovely fiancé, Alex. We have developed a lengthy list of dream holiday destinations which we are slowly but surely working through. As far as I may travel though, I love nothing more than being at home to spend time with my (large) circle of family and friends. I cannot wait for my nearest and dearest to join me in Tralee!
Florida Rose
Molly Ronan
Florida Rose
Molly Ronan
My name is Molly Ronan, and I am a 27-year-old Florida native hailing from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. As someone who has a keen interest in people and different cultures, I graduated from the University of Florida in 2021 with my Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. Being proud of my Irish heritage I have always celebrated my roots in every way I can. I was a champion Irish Dancer and the 2022 senior Mid-Atlantic Fleadh champion on flute, tin whistle, and harp. I currently work as a first-grade assistant and substitute teacher at St. Paul’s Catholic School as well as a freelance wedding and event harpist. Music is a big part of my life and I always seek to give back to my community by playing at assisted living facilities, churches, schools, and charity functions. Having been involved with the Florida Rose Center since 2017 as a Junior Rose, I am honored to be representing the Sunshine State here in Tralee.
Galway Rose
Deirdre Jennings
Galway Rose
Deirdre Jennings
Hello there, my name is Deirdre, I’m 29 years old and I’m honoured to be representing my beautiful county as the 2024 Galway Rose. I’m the youngest of three girls, raised by loving parents in Ros a Mhíl, a Gaeltacht village in Connemara in the West of Ireland. In my late teens, I struggled to decide what I wanted to do in the future. I was feeling lost when I stumbled upon a course description that said, “If you’re a kind and caring person who wants to help people, then this course is for you.” Reading this was a special moment for me, I knew I wanted to be a social worker. I graduated from Trinity College Dublin in 2019 and I’m currently working as a Medical Social Worker in University Hospital Galway. In my spare time I enjoy going to art classes, spending time with loved ones and bringing my dog Pooka for walks. I’m always working on personal growth, self-care, maintaining positive mental health and helping others do the same. I’ve been as far away as India, Africa and Australia and I also love a good road trip at home in Ireland with family and friends.
Kerry Rose
Emer Dineen
Kerry Rose
Emer Dineen
My name is Emer, I’m 23 and I come from Castlegregory, nestled between mountain and sea on the Wild Atlantic Way. I am honoured to be representing Kerry for this year’s Rose Festival. I graduated from University College Dublin as a Radiographer and work as a Paediatric Radiographer at Temple Street Hospital, covering Tallaght and Connolly Hospitals’ Paediatric Departments. I have worked as a lifeguard in both Castlegregory and Ballyheigue, volunteered with Irish Water Safety, and participated in Community Games, all of which fuelled my passion for working with children. Tá grá don Ghaeilge agam, and I am a fluent speaker, having attended secondary school in Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí in Tralee. I am learning Irish Sign Language and Lámh (a manual sign system) to enhance my communication skills. I volunteer in Barretstown, providing enjoyable experiences for seriously ill children and their families. My childhood was filled with activities from swimming to cheerleading, winning medals at local, national and international levels. I love meeting people, and traveling, and I’m excited to connect with my fellow Roses.
Kildare Rose
Catherine Cunningham
Kildare Rose
Catherine Cunningham
Hello! My name is Catherine Cunningham, and I am proud to represent Kildare in the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival. I am 24 years old and live in Rathangan, Co. Kildare. I am a caseworker with Turas Nua, working with people who are seeking to return to part-time and full-time employment. My Dad Thomas was born and raised in Bracknagh, County Offaly until he met the Lily White that stole his heart, my Mam Kay, from Rathangan, Co Kildare. They built a home on my Grandparents’ farm and have spent the best years of their lives building an incredible life for me and my four siblings. I enjoy exercise, playing cards and a cup of tea with a chat (especially with my dad). I am passionate about my job and how the smallest of actions can have such an impact on others. My motto in life is “you make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give”. I am really looking forward to Tralee this summer and meeting the rest of the Roses and making memories that will last us all a lifetime.
Kilkenny Rose
Lisa O'Rourke
Kilkenny Rose
Lisa O'Rourke
My name is Lisa O’Rourke, I am 28 years old and hail from Castlecomer, Co.Kilkenny. With a BSc in Marketing, I work as an Employee Communications Specialist at Tirlán. I’m an outgoing and fun-loving individual who absolutely thrives on socialising and making new friends. Music and performing are my passions, followed by a girly cocktail night, sports and travel. The thought of exploring different cultures across the globe and embarking on thrilling travel adventures fills me with pure excitement. My family and friends mean the world to be and I would not be where I am today without their support. Since I can remember I have had a great interest in the Rose of Tralee, becoming part of the judging panel yearly in my own head. I relate to what it stands for and I am delighted to be part of the 2024 Rose family. I simply can’t contain my enthusiasm for the Rose of Tralee International Festival, as I know it’s going to be the experience of a lifetime! I am honoured to be representing Kilkenny and look forward to meeting my inspiring Rose sisters.
Leitrim Rose
Shauna Murtagh
Leitrim Rose
Shauna Murtagh
My name is Shauna Murtagh, and I am 23 years old. I am from Carrick-on-Shannon, and I am honoured and delighted to be selected as this year’s Leitrim Rose. I recently finished my final year at University of Galway, and I am graduating at the end of August with a degree in Commerce (Global Experience). The degree gave me the incredible opportunity to study abroad at University of Albany, SUNY. I am currently working in our family business, Cryan’s Hotel in Carrick-On-Shannon and I am involved in the social media marketing there. I am taking this time to focus on my career path, and I intend to travel more over the year. Sports has always been a major part of my family’s life, from GAA to rowing. I started my rowing journey with Carrick-On-Shannon Rowing Club, and continued with University of Galway Boat Club where I went on to win 2 Irish National Championships. I hope to help advocate more for girls in sport and coaching with my local rowing club. I am grateful for all the support I have received locally, and I am looking forward to an incredible Rose journey.
London Rose
Glenna Mannion
London Rose
Glenna Mannion
My name is Glenna Mannion, hailing from Tulsk, Co.Roscommon. I am 28 and am absolutely privileged to be representing my home from home as the 2024 London Rose. As the youngest of four siblings, I aim to make my parents and family proud in everything I do. I’ve been in London for the past 8 years and am deputy manager and service coordinator of a residential home for young people with autism. I aim to provide the highest quality of care so that they leave us stronger and more resilient in the next stage of their lives. Living and working in one of the most multicultural cities in the world has exposed me to different experiences, languages and cuisines. Travel is one of my great interests, as well as meeting new people from all walks of life and embracing different cultures. I have also had the opportunity to learn and grow in ways that may not have been possible if I was still living in Roscommon. I am very proud and absolutely thrilled to return home not only representing London, but also Roscommon. I can’t believe I am making my dream of being on the stage in Tralee a reality.
Louth Rose
Justine McGuirk
Louth Rose
Justine McGuirk
Hello! I’m Justine McGuirk, a 27-year-old woman from Ardee in the heart of Co. Louth, but I was born and raised in the lively town of Drogheda! I graduated from Dundalk Institute of Technology with a Bachelors (Hons) in Health and Physical Activity. While studying, I realised I wanted to pursue a career working directly with people with disabilities. Since then, I’ve been advocating for their rights and raising awareness about their capabilities. I am lucky to work as a Day Service Supervisor, helping find meaningful activities for those I support. I’m a proud member of Voices of the Boyne Choir, a social choir founded to showcase the talents of women across the Wee County, all whilst having fun! I love listening and dancing to country music, enjoying walks, and trying new things! Being selected to represent Louth at this year’s Festival has already been the experience of a lifetime and I am so grateful for all the love and support! I am incredibly excited to continue on this journey and enjoy all the magic yet to come! I’m a positive and bubbly person with a rosy outlook on life! I live by the motto “everything happens for a reason!”
Melbourne Rose
Dervla Dolan
Melbourne Rose
Dervla Dolan
My name is Dervla Dolan, I’m 25, and I am delighted to be representing the diverse city of Melbourne and its massive Irish community at the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival. I am both a Primary and Secondary school teacher, specialising in the subject of History. Teaching in Melbourne has been a great learning experience, allowing me to meet children from all over the world. I am constantly learning about their different cultures and traditions, whilst proudly sharing my own. I hail from the village of Killyclogher in County Tyrone and made the move to Melbourne in 2022. I come from a family very involved in running and I have completed thirteen half marathons and one full marathon. Upon moving to Melbourne, I established my own running community called Run for Enda, in memory of my brother. This initiative has enabled over one hundred people to train for and complete a half marathon, making me a very proud coach! Our endeavours also raised a substantial amount of money for The Kevin Bell Trust, a charity very important for all of us living overseas. I am very excited to make the journey home as the Melbourne Rose!
Monaghan Rose
Anne-Marie McArdle
Monaghan Rose
Anne-Marie McArdle
My name is Anne-Marie, I’m 26 years old, and from Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. I am honoured to represent the “stony grey soil of Monaghan” for the 2024 Rose Festival. Last year, I graduated with a Master of Education in Primary School Teaching from Hibernia College. I now work in an all-girls primary school in Dublin’s northeast inner city. I love singing, dancing, hiking, and going to the gym. While I enjoy the diverse experiences Dublin offers, my heart will always be in Monaghan, where I cherish time with friends, family, and my lovely dog, Marley. I’m passionate about my community’s vibrant culture, especially our love of country music - I am no stranger to getting up for a jive or two! I love to support both local and national charities and am passionate about volunteering. Last year, I completed two half marathons, raising significant funds for the Carrickmacross Cancer Society, a cause that is extremely dear to my heart. Representing Monaghan in the Rose of Tralee is something I have dreamt about since I was a wee girl. I am really looking forward to the journey ahead and creating lasting memories.
Newfoundland & Labrador Rose
Tammy Snook
Newfoundland & Labrador Rose
Tammy Snook
Now 27 years old, my journey began in the rugged beauty of outport Newfoundland and Labrador. Raised by parents who embodied hard work and innovation, I developed an appreciation for my roots and a love for the land. After graduating with honours from Memorial University with a Bachelor of Commerce, I earned my Certified Associate in Project Management. My career has spanned roles in corporate, private, and non-profit sectors. As a multidisciplinary consultant, I became involved in entrepreneurship, business development, and Indigenous engagement and Nation rebuilding. I co-founded Paskwâw Harbour Strategies Inc. to bridge Indigenous wisdom with Western perspectives, creating consulting strategies that prioritise cultural values and positive impact.Volunteering with organizations like Make-A-Wish allows me to make a meaningful difference in others’ lives. My journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and meaningful connections. As I continue to expand my horizons and make my mark on the world, one thing remains constant: supporting women to be themselves, unapologetically.
New York Rose
Billie Cooper
New York Rose
Billie Cooper
Hello! My name is Billie Aoife Cooper and I am 25 years old. I hail from Cavan, but I’ve been so lucky to call many places home throughout my life. I grew up in Ballyhaise, Co. Cavan, with my twin sister, Lucy, and younger brother, Kenneth. My mother, Thérèse, was raised just down the road in Killeshandra, and my father, Patrick, is from Cork. I spent several years living in Singapore and China where the Irish communities were so vibrant that even halfway around the world, I never felt too far from home. There, I learned how to Irish dance and play Gaelic and Rugby. As a teenager, my family relocated to the states, and I’ve since lived in Michigan, Chicago, Boston, and New York! I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Boston University and I’m currently getting my Masters in Social Work at Columbia University. I’ve been working in the mental and behavioural health field for just over three years now. When I’m not studying, I enjoy running, reading, or cross stitching! It’s the biggest honour to represent both Cavan and New York at this year’s Festival - my home and my home away from home!
North Carolina Rose
Kathryn Wright
North Carolina Rose
Kathryn Wright
Hey y’all! My name is Kathryn, I’m 27 and was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. My grandmother was from Galway and emigrated to North Carolina (via Boston) in her late teens. Our family has been here ever since, and it is an honor to represent her journey and the Irish community of North Carolina. I recently graduated with my Masters of Arts in International Higher Education from Boston College and work as a Program Manager for the Office of Global Education. I manage and advise all Irish and Italian study abroad programs. Before pursuing my masters, I received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of North Carolina, where I spent time studying in Ireland and working at a refugee resettlement agency. These experiences sparked my passion for cultural exchange and global education, which led me to teach English in Spain before pursuing graduate school. I believe that study abroad and exchange is an incredible opportunity to shift perspectives, promote understanding and create global citizens. When I am not working or studying, I can most likely be found traveling, trying new restaurants, or enjoying the sunshine. I am so excited for the journey ahead!
New Zealand Rose
Keely O'Grady
New Zealand Rose
Keely O'Grady
Kia ora and Dia dhuit! I’m a 21-year-old, fourth-year student at Canterbury University, studying a Bachelor of Speech and Language Therapy. I have recently completed a placement at a special needs school for children with autism. I hope to work in the healthcare or disability sector, helping children to communicate effectively. I love New Zealand, where I was born and raised by my Irish father and Kiwi mother. I live in Christchurch with seven of my best friends. I cherish a typical Kiwi lifestyle, enjoying beach trips, exploring the cities, and taking advantage of the outdoors, especially snowboarding, and road-tripping with friends. I dream of world travel, as there is so much to explore and learn. Irish dancing has been my passion since I started at age five. I am a six-time NZ National Champion and attended the Dublin World Irish Dancing Championships as the TIDA Scholarship Recipient. My lifelong goal is to perform with a show and tour worldwide. I draw inspiration from my family and friends who cheer me on in everything I do! I am passionate about advocating for people’s rights and aim to make a positive mark on people’s lives.
Ohio Rose
Aoife Zuercher
Ohio Rose
Aoife Zuercher
Hello! My name is Aoife Zuercher and I am the Ohio Rose. I am a 22-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio and a recent graduate of Ohio University with honors degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics. Next month, I will be starting a PhD in Materials Engineering at the University of Maryland. I work at NASA on next generation batteries for electric aircraft. Through this work and research at school, I am a published author in scientific journals. I am passionate about advocating for women in science and a sustainable future through scientific discoveries. Growing up, I have been an active member in the Cleveland Irish community being a part of the Burke School of Irish Dance for 12 years. I am currently on the Cleveland Gaelic football team and bartending at Gormley’s Irish Pub. My heritage stems from my mother, Deirdre, born and raised in Dublin, and my father John, who’s, family is from Derry. Irish culture flows through my blood and emerges in my everyday life with a lively family and supportive Irish friends. I am proud to represent my beautiful state Ohio in the 2024 Rose of Tralee International Festival.
Perth Rose
Maria Collins
Perth Rose
Maria Collins
Dia daoibh! Is mise Maria Collins agus is mise an ‘Perth Rose’. I’m 29 years old, I’m from Coppeen in County Cork and have been living in Australia for over a year now. Having travelled a lot of Australia, Western Australia is by far my favourite state. I've met some incredible friends here in Perth and love the outdoorsy lifestyle and beautiful beaches. I'm passionate about Gaeilge and teach Irish to a beautiful family here in Perth as well as run Irish language events around the city. I'm a primary school teacher and love my job. It's very different to Ireland which has made my work very interesting and varied. I have recently started learning AUSLAN and have worked in the School for Deaf children which has been challenging but immensely rewarding. I am very excited to be part of the Rose of Tralee. I've watched the show every year since I was a little girl so it is a dream come true to be involved. This will be my first time back in Ireland since I left for Australia so I’m really looking forward to it. I can’t wait to get to know new people and enjoy all of the upcoming events.
Roscommon Rose
Rachel Hastings
Roscommon Rose
Rachel Hastings
My name is Rachel Hastings, I am 27 years old and come from Ballyforan. I obtained a BA/PME in Home Economics and Religious Education in St Angela’s College, Sligo. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in ‘Education for Sustainable and Responsible Living,’ driven by my deep passion for sustainability. I enjoy working as a lecturer in ATU St Angelas as it allows the opportunity to positively impact my students’ lives, sharing my enthusiasm for teaching and knowledge. I am actively involved in the Healthy Campus Committee and the Erasmus+ program, which enriches the college experience for both staff and students. In my free time, I can be found extending a helping hand to others which can be seen through my vast volunteering experiences such as running an annual charity Easter camp. I contribute to my local GAA Healthy Club initiative, and I have volunteered in Kenya, working with young people in a school setting. My love for the outdoors and nature extends to my personal life, where I enjoy running, walking, cycling and farming on my family’s farm in Ballyforan.
San Francisco Rose
Maggie Baglin
San Francisco Rose
Maggie Baglin
My name is Maggie Baglin, and I am a 23-year-old, born and raised San Franciscan. I am very proud of my Irish heritage, San Francisco nativism, and Catholic faith, as they formed who I am today. At ten years old, I traded in my soft shoes and picked up the highland bagpipes. I am a proud member of the Irish Pipers Band of San Francisco, who taught me to play. I feel a little old, as I am now the one teaching youth lessons and passing it onto the next generation. This year, I became my parish’s Youth Minister and formed a group for young Catholic teenagers. We brought back Sandwiches for the Hungry, where I collect sandwich donations to take to a shelter that feeds those in need. I work as a Registered Behavior Therapist, supporting special needs children with their language, communication, and basic living skills. I am also a Program Manager, providing supervision to therapists and family adaptive behavior treatment guidance to parents. I am finishing up my last year of graduate school for my Masters in Special Education. I enjoy running, baking, playing music, and spending time with family and friends.
Sligo Rose
Megan McCormack
Sligo Rose
Megan McCormack
Dia dhaoibh! My name is Megan McCormack, 25 years young, from Gurteen in beautiful County Sligo. I am honoured to represent my home county in the Rose of Tralee Festival 2024. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Gaeilge & English at University of Limerick and completed a Masters in Primary Education with Hibernia College. I am fortunate to work as a substitute Primary school teacher across various schools. I am a keen footballer and play Gaelic football with my club Eastern Harps, county Sligo LGFA and soccer with Gurteen Celtic. I have taken my LGFA roots abroad to Chicago playing with Erin’s Rovers for a summer. Coaching is another passion of mine, both at Cúl Camps across the county and within my club Eastern Harps. I enjoy running, music, horse-riding and trips to the Gaeltacht, which enhanced my love of Gaeilge. My family and community are inspirational to me on this journey and I’m grateful for their supportive encouragement.Here’s to sharing this experience among other inspiring Roses and embracing all of what representing County Sligo has to offer!
Sydney Rose
Ashling Heneghan
Sydney Rose
Ashling Heneghan
Hello, my name is Ashling and I am a 29-year-old Speech and Language Pathologist living and working in Sydney. I work in the community providing support to adults and children on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). I originally hail from Westport in County Mayo and grew up helping on my family’s sheep farm with my identical twin sister and two brothers. I have a love for participating in a diverse range of sports and I play GAA with Young Irelands in Sydney. I was peer selected as Athletics Track Captain for two consecutive years at Trinity College where I competed as a race walker and won several All-Ireland titles. I enjoy exploring new cultures, travelling, hiking and taking in the beauty of a Sydney sunrise followed by a coffee and a swim. I am honoured to represent both the long-established and newer Irish emigrants in Sydney. I am excited to make new friends and connect with Irish communities worldwide at the Rose of Tralee International Festival.
Tipperary Rose
Tara Brady
Tipperary Rose
Tara Brady
Hi there! My name is Tara Brady, I’m 23 years old, and I come from the lakeside town of Ballina in County Tipperary. Last year, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and English from the University of Limerick and am currently studying for my Masters degree in Public History and Cultural Heritage. I have a special interest in Irish history and oral history, and it is my mission to collect and preserve the memories of our older generations before we lose them as a nation. I have been an Irish dancer since I was a little girl, and I recently had the honour of competing in the Senior Ladies competition in the 2024 World Irish Dancing Championships in Glasgow. I have had the privilege in the last two years of traveling to the United States and the Middle East performing with the all-girl traditional music band, Cailíní Lua. I am passionate about celebrating Irish culture at home and abroad. I am so looking forward to sharing this once in a lifetime adventure with the other remarkable Roses. It is my absolute honour to represent the Premier County at the Rose of Tralee International Festival this summer!
Waterford Rose
Abby Walsh
Waterford Rose
Abby Walsh
Dia dhuit, Abby Walsh is ainm dom. I am 22 years old and thrilled to be representing the oldest city in Ireland - Waterford. I am blessed to be working in my dream job, Múinteoir Bunscoile in a Gaelscoil (Primary School Teacher in an Irish speaking school). I have an enormous grá for the Irish language, music, and culture. If I am not travelling the four corners of Ireland for dancing competitions, I enjoy catching up with friends, and visiting our local beaches and Greenway. I am a gifted talker, napper and grazer eater. I am secretly amazing at building in Minecraft! I love to laugh, and think that a sense of humour is an essential trait as a Múinteoir. I have been spreading my passions for the Irish language and dance for the past few years, encouraging everyone to try and say cúpla focal gach lá and inspiring Irish dancers to stay active and participate. I am excited to make new life-long friendships, and meet inspirational brave women, with big dreams while on my Rose journey. My life value is; Victory does not always mean winning. Victory means rising after every fall.
Westmeath Rose
Grace O'Connor
Westmeath Rose
Grace O'Connor
My name is Grace O’Connor. I am 21 and I’m from Killucan, Co. Westmeath. I work as a support worker in an intellectual disability setting, I am recently qualified as a Shamanic Practitioner and I am currently studying to be a herbalist. I love all things outdoors and nature, whether it be going for a long walk down the local canalways, stand up paddle boarding on the lakes, gardening or simply watching the sunrise. I like to find beauty and magic in the little things and moments, because as they say, life is what happens when you’re busy making plans. I am a true believer in what you put out there you will get back. I try not to take any moment for granted and am extremely grateful for all I have and have experienced. Life is full of lessons and I believe it is all about perspective. I am so honoured to be representing Westmeath and can't wait to meet the rest of the Roses to start our Rose of Tralee adventure together!
Wicklow Rose
Kerry Byrne
Wicklow Rose
Kerry Byrne
Heya, Kerry Byrne here! I’m a 21-year-old Sports Therapy student. I volunteer at The Beacon Hospital in the Physiotherapy Dept and work part time in Searsons bar, Dublin. Those who know me, know I’m a massive sports nut, playing Football, Camogie, Golf and now Rugby with the Arklow women’s team. Staying active is a big part of my life and living in The Garden County with mountains, forests and beaches all very close to my home, helps me keep active and it makes me very proud to represent my beautiful county, Wicklow. Something many people don’t know about me is that I have Dyslexia, but despite this I was very proud to go to an Irish speaking primary school. I did have an exemption, but my parents just didn’t tell me! I was very happy to continue on to complete Higher Level Irish throughout secondary school, as I didn’t want it to hold me back. A big part of me joining the Rose of Tralee Family is to show girls everywhere that you can play sports, some of which are mainly played by men, and still put on a pretty dress and feel confident and comfortable with both.
Yorkshire Rose
Clídna Bailey-Doyle
Yorkshire Rose
Clídna Bailey-Doyle
Hello, my name is Clídna Bailey-Doyle, I’m 25 years old, and I am honoured to be this year’s Yorkshire Rose. I graduated from The University of Chester with a BA Honours in Event Management, following which I started my career working with professional athletes running their charity events and marketing campaigns. I am now a Wedding Coordinator for a spectacular wedding venue in Cheshire. I am passionate about my career and I cherish the opportunity to be a part of their special day by giving them a very personal experience. My parents were both born and raised in County Wexford and came to the United Kingdom in their 20’s for more opportunity. My family live in Wexford and I visit them every year. My interests include being outdoors, running, gym, swimming, quality time with friends and family and travelling. I am thoroughly looking forward to an unforgettable experience at the Rose of Tralee International Festival alongside remarkable women from around the world.