Bronagh Riordan
BSc (Hons) Mathematics, Statistics and Computing
Bronagh Riordan is a business-focused Data & Analytics lead, with over 20 years of proven experience delivering innovative solutions, building and managing high performance teams across the fields of Data Management, Business Intelligence, Data Analytics, Data Science and Technology.
Bronagh has also recently been recognised as both a finalist for the WMB Woman in Technology Award 2024 as well as a finalist for Women in STEM Summit & Awards by making remarkable advancements in the technology field and paving the way for the next generation of women in STEM. With a list of awards and accolades to back, we all wish Bronagh the very best of luck in her upcoming endeavours!
To connect with Bronagh or to see what she is currently up to, click the link below!
Robert Colhoun
BSc (Hons) Building Surveying
Robert Colhoun, owner of Robert’s Building Surveying, is a property surveyance specialist who has built a reputation for trusted property insights amongst property owners based on his years of industry experience, meticulous attention to detail, client-focused approach and clear communication. Robert’s Building Surveying offers an independent voice, providing accurate, comprehensive reports that empower clients to make informed decisions about their properties. Robert’s business will be advertised at the ‘Love Your Home Show’ hosted at the ECOS Centre in Ballymena in March 2024, as well as in their magazine and website.
Robert is also a singer with several albums and won an Akademia Award in 2016 for Best Country EP. Robert is a gifted bodhran player and plays regular trad sessions across Ireland.
If you are interested in finding out more about Robert’s Building Surveying or his music, visit his website to find out more.
Paddy Donnelly
BSc (Hons) Interactive Multimedia Design
Paddy Donnelly is an award-winning illustrator and storyteller from Ireland, known for his vibrant and unique illustrations that captivate both children and adults alike. With a background in graphic and web design, Paddy brings a unique style to his picture books, combining playful characters and rich landscapes often inspired by nature and Irish folklore.
His work has been celebrated for its emotional depth and visual charm, earning accolades across the children's publishing world with a great list of awards and accolades to back. You can also find Paddy hosting engaging talks and workshops where he shares insights into his creative process, illustration techniques, and storytelling approaches inspiring generations to come!
To read more about Paddy’s process or to view his illustrations, check out his website!
Photo Credit: Michiel Devijver
Dr Aileen Jones
LLB (Hons) Government and Law
Dr Aileen Jones is now the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for External Engagement and Partnerships at Liverpool John Moores University. In her previous role as Executive Director of Investment and Delivery, Aileen led the Combined Authoity’s investment work to maximise economic impact in the Liverpool city region. Leading a team of more than 220 staff, she developed the strategic vision for the economic development of the city region and investment of devolved funding.
Aileen has also led the delivery of business support and the city region’s inward investment function, as well as the delivery of complex devolved programmes with a focus on people and skills, apprenticeships and homelessness.
Aileen has over twenty years’ experience in strategic leadership roles, and we know she will be an asset to Liverpool John Moores University. Join us in wishing Aileen the best of luck in her exciting new role.
Noel Russell
Diploma in Irish Language
Noel Russell is an author, journalist, and television producer. Noel was also a former news editor of The Irish News and was editor of Speech Radio, BBC Northern Ireland. Recently, Noel has written a new book, ‘The Saved and the Spurned’, which explores the little-known history of Jewish refugees from Nazi-occupied Vienna who sought refuge in Northern Ireland during World War II. The book delves into the efforts of Northern Irish individuals and communities to help these refugees, as well as the tragic fate of many who were turned away.
His work sheds light on an often-overlooked chapter of Northern Irish history, providing both an economic and social context for the refugee crisis during the war and highlighting the humanitarian efforts that were made despite governmental obstacles.
Make sure to visit Noel’s website to find out more about his new book and career achievements.
Martin McDonagh
LLB (Hons) Law
Martin McDonagh is an Irish Traveller activist and aspiring barrister currently advancing his legal career through the Access to Justice LLM programme at the Ulster University. Martin was awarded the A&O Shearman Scholarship in 2023/24 which allowed him to study further to deepen his understanding and expertise in legal matters, particularly focusing on ensuring access to justice for the most vulnerable in society, including Irish Travellers, human rights and social justice.
Martin recently founded Northern Ireland’s first Traveller-led support group. He is passionate about addressing the challenges faced by the Irish Traveller community and is determined to drive social change. Through both law and activism, Martin aims to amplify marginalised voices and advocate for meaningful change within society.
Check out the recent episode on the ‘Activist Lawyer’ Podcast to find out more about his personal story and activism with the Irish Traveller community.