Celebrate International Men’s Day

Working in partnership with Enterprise Causeway and Causeway Chamber, UU Connects is organising an event to recognise International Men’s Day at The Courthouse Shared Space Creative Hub in Bushmills on Wednesday 20 November.

Hosted by award-winning broadcaster and presenter, Lynette Fay, the morning will open with a delicious breakfast and will be followed by a panel discussion with inspiring guest speakers.

Introducing our Panellists

• Dean Shiels, former professional football player for notable clubs including Hibernian, Rangers, and Kilmarnock in Scotland, as well as Doncaster Rovers in England. Shiels also represented Northern Ireland at international level, earning 14 caps and scoring once for his country. After retiring from playing, Dean transitioned into coaching and is currently the Head Coach of Coleraine FC.
• Liam Hinphey, a double Ulster University graduate and former football and hurling star for Derry GAA. Liam is currently the Age-Friendly Programme Co-ordinator for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Co-Chair of the Age-Friendly Network NI and volunteers regularly to raise awareness of Dravet Syndrome, a life-limiting neurological condition his son suffers from.
• Gary Rutherford, Ulster University graduate and Founder of ARC Fitness Ltd. Gary is a registered Mental Health Nurse professional and addiction therapist. Gary is also in long term recovery from substance abuse, which drives him to advocate and provide hope for others. His work was recognised by the Royal College of Nursing when he was awarded the RCN Nurse of the Year 2022.

‘Mood Food’ Masterclass with Chef Michael Gillies

The event will also feature a culinary masterclass with Michael Gillies. Michael is an Ulster University graduate and is currently Lecturer and Course Director for the Culinary Arts Management programme at Ulster University. His extensive global experience includes senior chef positions in 5-star hotels and Michelin-listed restaurants. Michael oversees the kitchen and Culinary Salons of the Academy Restaurant at Ulster University’s Belfast campus, creating first-class experiential learning for culinary students. In 2024, Michael was elected as an Academician of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, becoming the first individual in Northern Ireland to receive this prestigious accolade.

We warmly invite all Ulster University graduates, staff, friends and supporters to sign up and join us for a positive, engaging discussion about men’s health and wellbeing in recognition of International Men’s Day. This exceptional line up of speakers are sure to leave you inspired and deepen your understanding of the challenges men and boys can face in our society. Plus, step up your cookery skills and look after your health and mood with tasty, nutritious recipes from a celebrated professional chef.

Places are limited, please register early to avoid disappointment.

What is International Men's Day?

International Men’s Day is recognised globally each year on 19 November and offers space to consider actions that support men's physical and mental health, encourage positive role models, promote gender equality and advocate for a safer society for all. The 6 key objectives of International Men’s Day are:

1. To promote male role models
2. To celebrate the contribution that men make
3. To focus on men’s health and wellbeing
4. To highlight discrimination against men and the inequalities that men and boys face
5. To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
6. To create a safer world for everyone

In the UK, International Men’s Day is organised by the Men and Boys Coalition. Visit their website to find out more about International Men’s Day and ways to get involved. Read their key facts page which provides a range of statistics and 10 key facts relating to specific issues affecting men and boys in the UK, including suicide, educational attainment and physical health.