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University of Galway IdeasLab Stanford University Innovation Fellowship

December 4, 2023

University of Galway IdeasLab students have joined with students from across 67 educational institutes in 15 countries to become University Innovation Fellows. The University Innovation Fellows (UIF) program empowers students to become agents of change at their universities. 

Fellows work to ensure that all students gain the attitudes, skills and knowledge required to navigate a complex world and build the future.   These student leaders from schools around the globe create opportunities to help their peers build the creative confidence, agency, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to address global challenges. Fellows create student innovation spaces, start entrepreneurship organizations, facilitate experiential workshops, work with the university community to develop new courses, and much more.

– Mia Shanley-Brookes, BSc Medicinal Chemistry, 2024
– Sophie Spellissy, Computer Science and Information Technology, 2025
– Ciaran Cox, Biomedical Engineering, 2028

The inaugural fellows in University of Galway are Mia Shanley Brookes (Medicinal Chemistry, 2024), Sophie Spellissy (Computer Science and Information Technology, 2025) and Ciaran Cox (Biomedical Engineering, 2028).  Mia, Sophie and Ciaran are working as advocates for lasting institutional change with university leaders, lending the much-needed student voice to the conversations about the future of higher education and entrepreneurship. 

The students participated in a 6-week training experience during which they learned to analyse their campus ecosystems and identify opportunities for change related to innovation, entrepreneurship, design thinking, and creativity. They worked to understand the needs of peers on the University campus and apply this new knowledge and perspective to design new educational opportunities for their peers. In early 2024 the student team will prototype a new programme that focuses on shadowing start-ups and early stage companies to better understand how firms work and what types of roles students may wish to undertake once they are finished university and moving onto their next chapter.

The Fellows programme is run by Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d. School). With the addition of the new Fellows, the programme has trained more than 3,100 students since its creation.   Leticia Britos Cavagnaro, Co-Director of the University Innovation Fellows programme ‘Fellows Mia, Sophie and Ciaran have developed new ways to help students at the University of Galway enhance their innovation skills, connect their learning with real-world applications, and gain access to essential resources. We’re so proud of the hard work they’ve done already, and we’re excited to see the impact they continue to have’.

Dr Natalie Walsh a Faculty Innovation Fellow with Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d.school) and the Director of Entrepreneurial Development in the University of Galway stated that ‘We are delighted to join the University Innovation Fellowship community and support our students to design new experiences that support all students to develop the skills and mindsets necessary to navigate these uncertain times and to shape the future they want to see.  The partnership aligns with our values of excellence and sustainability, and we are excited to launch a new programme designed and delivered by Mia, Ciaran and Sophie in early 2024’.

 University of Galway is the only Irish University who have taken part in the UIF programme.  A core theme of the programme supports responsible futuring and the team look forward to travelling to the University of Twente in 2024 to build skills and expertise and connect in person with the UIF community of over 2,000 faculty and students from across the globe.

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Global reach of local event honoured at Fáilte Ireland Awards

November 27, 2023

Wexford native FRESH Street conference brought 21 countries to Inis Oírr Galway

Fáilte Ireland celebrated the outstanding contributions of 104 conference ambassadors, including renowned academics and industry leaders, at an award ceremony at the Intercontinental Hotel.

Wexford native and ISACS (Irish Street Art, Circus and Spectacle Network) Director Lucy Medlycott was there to receive the Fáilte Ireland CARA award for bringing a conference, FRESH Street 2019, to Galway and for its contribution to the region’s economic impact.  The event took place from 22 – 24th May 2019 in Galway City and Inis Oírr and brought together over 280 delegates from 21 different countries and from 4 different continents. Making it a local event on a global level which examined the incredible power of making artistic work for public spaces.

“ISACS are beyond thrilled to receive this award out of the blue for the wonderful FRESH Street event which we held in partnership with Circostrada and Galway 2020 back in May 2019. ‘It feels particularly special to get this kind of recognition for an event whose significance was slightly eclipsed by the ensuing pandemic. We are super grateful for the acknowledgment of the value of these art forms in our cultural landscape by Minister Martin and Failte Ireland and especially the Meet in Galway team,” said Lucy Medlycott Director of ISACS network.

“Every year we bring professional international programmers, festivals, and arts managers to Ireland to meet with the ISACS membership. This year alone we hosted over 15 arts professionals with the support of Culture Ireland. And next year we have some exciting plans once more for the international development of this most democratic of art forms. ISACS will in fact be hosting Circostrada – the European Network for Contemporary Circus and Outdoor Arts – in Ireland once again, during summer of 2024, with their DIVE programme. Details will be released soon.”

FRESH Street brought over 260 delegates attended from 21 different countries, across 4 continents. In advance of the seminar, a 2-day private meeting was hosted by the Arts Council of Ireland for policymakers across the world. Over 12 policymakers arrived from the UK, Belgium, Ireland, Sweden, Latvia and France to share and discuss topics of mutual interest. The Circostrada Network facilitated this, and it was highly influential in mapping out means to establish data and to grow knowledge of this rapidly developing art form across the territory.

The ambassadors were acknowledged for their expertise, industry knowledge and unwavering commitment to successfully hosting an international conference in Ireland between 2018 and 2022. Collectively these conferences have contributed €125 million to the Irish economy and have made a positive impact on our nation. 

Fáilte Ireland’s Conference Ambassador Programme was developed to support individuals who want to host an international conference in Ireland. The programme provides assistance and financial support at every stage of the event, from the initial bidding, through to the marketing and promotion of the event. Ambassadors are sector leaders or influencers in their field and since the programme was established in 2009, Fáilte Ireland has supported almost 3,000 ambassadors in their bids to host conferences and events worth more than €2 billion.

To find out more check out www.isacs.ie.

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Kristy Verenga explores Who Am I? in Gort

November 9, 2023

The Gallery Café to host New York Artist exhibition

Experimental artist Kristy Verenga has opened her Who Am I? exhibition which combines media to explore the question at The Gallery Café in Gort. Kristy uses painting and sculpture to build the world that she calls home, these abstract and symbolic narratives are an expression of her daily experience.

Using oil paint on a wax ground and sometimes a texture like sand which also lets the drawing remain visible as part of the dynamic whole, she makes her own paper clay for the sculpture, which process emerged as a pandemic palliative. The images in her work are both playful and expressive of this interior dialogue.  

Kristy Verenga studied modern dance and music and this feeling of movement is present in her work. She lived in Manhattan for 15 years where she had a fashion business, art gallery and taught yoga.

In 1999, she moved to Barcelona and had a studio in Tecla Sala, a gallery and work space for artists. In 2005, she received a residency grant with solo exhibit at the Roscommon Arts Centre which prompted the move to Ireland. She received a travel bursary (The Irish cow vs. the Indian sacred cow) which took her to Sanskriti Kendra in New Delhi, India. She now lives and works in Kinvara.

The exhibition will run until 7th of January 2024 and all pieces are available to buy in house. Pop in or check out www.thegallerycafegort.com.

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Because the night belongs to us…Nostalgia of the 90s lives on

November 6, 2023

Jezahel ignites the spirit of the night

After captivating audiences with its debut performance at The Blue Note in Galway’s Westend on Culture Night 2023, Jezahel will make its way to Galway’s Town Hall Theatre in December, promising a night of humour, nostalgia, and an intoxicating blend of class As craic!

This production, written by Malachy Duggan and directed by Emily Ahern is not your average theatrical experience; it is a wild ride through the past, mixing laughter, memories, and the energy of a bygone era.

Can a group of aging ravers defy the odds and stay up past their bedtime one more night to save the day? With a B-movie concept 30 years in the making, it is a play that would have the legendary Roger Corman spinning in his grave – that is, if he were already six feet under.

This feature-length play delves deep into 90s nostalgia and masterfully fits a square peg into the circle of life, exploring the journey of a group of kids from the 90s who have grown old, left without a roadmap for their lives. And the youth of today? They find themselves in a similar predicament, with all the nightclubs gone. Jezahel is a celebration of culture that comes alive after the sun sets, an experience that bridges the generational gap and ignites the spirit of the night.

Jezahel prompts the audience to reflect on the importance of preserving spaces for cultural expression, social interaction, and the party. The play highlights the need for fostering vibrant and diverse nightlife options in Ireland.

“Jezahel is a theatrical spectacle that transcends generations, a must-see for anyone looking to rekindle their youth, share a laugh, or simply experience the electric energy of the 90s once more,” smiled Malachy.

Tickets for Jezahel are priced at €16 and are available www.tht.ie or www.jezahel.com. The performance is happening on Thursday 7th December at 8pm.

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Take a look- Baboró

October 18, 2023

The 27th Baboró International Arts Festival for Children is officially underway, here is a look at some of the magic captured by Anita Murphy at Universe and I See you Like This 

Throughout the festival, families and children will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of performances, from theatre and dance to music and visual arts, all thoughtfully curated to engage, entertain, and educate. Baboró 2023 invites everyone to embark on an adventure into the world of creativity, where there are no boundaries to imagination

Featured Lifestyle

Sustainable Development Goals, Partnership, people, planet, prosperity

September 26, 2023

I have been accepted onto Sustainable Development Goals, Partnership, people, planet, prosperity at ATU Galway City

The aim of the programme is to introduce the theory and application of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) with a particular focus on their application in the regional context.

The programme aims to encourage knowledge of and reflection on how the SDG framework can be applied in a local context to encourage the implementation of environmentally sustainable, living and working practices, that support a just transition to more equitable society.

Communication and action is where I find purpose. I lead communication efforts that promote sustainable development, preserve Galway’s Westend unique values, and foster an environment that respects and supports the residents and businesses that call the Westend home. As the area undergoes growth and development, there is a need to preserve its distinctive character, promote sustainable practices, and maintain a strong sense of community.

Through collaboration with local businesses, residents, community organizations, and local government bodies to gather insights and perspectives that inform

I am interested in the learnings from this course to further inform a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with Galway’s Westend’s commitment to sustainable development and community preservation.

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 ‘I See You Like This’ 

September 26, 2023

Asking questions through art is a creative and different way of us seeing each other. Have you ever wondered how your child sees you? Well, the answer might lie within the ‘I See You Like This’ exhibition. With our ever-growing appetite to document our lives through photos and selfies, children are often the reluctant subjects of adults’ cameras – asked to smile, look natural and come in closer. In I See You Like This, Australian artist Jessica Wilson, flips the camera around giving the children control while their significant adults become their subjects.

Facilitated by Jessica in a private session the week before the festival begins, children will design and direct a creative photoshoot of their significant adult, captured by photographer Julia Dunin. The resulting portraits will create the exhibition. If you would like to be part of this exciting exhibition you can book an appointment for you and your 7 – 14 year old child with Jessica via baboro.ie. In the appointment Jessica will ask the child questions about how they see their adult’s personality and then design and direct their own photoshoot using unusual objects to express how they see their adult.

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Galway Food Tours Named Among the ‘World’s Tastiest’

September 25, 2023

Galway Food Tours has been named in the prestigious list of the ‘World’s Tastiest Autumn Food Experiences’ by Sunday Times Ireland. This exclusive compilation features 25 extraordinary food adventures from around the globe, highlighting Galway Food Tours’ exceptional contribution to the culinary world.

Galway Food Tours stands out as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking to savor the flavors of autumn in Ireland.

The list showcases an array of adventures, ranging from an Italian chestnut festival to foraging for German forest mushrooms and indulging in New York state wine and cider doughnuts. Galway Food Tours is part of this esteemed selection, representing Ireland’s rich gastronomic culture and the city’s vibrant food scene.

Galway Food Tours has been recognised for its commitment to providing an immersive and unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Galway. The tours offer participants the opportunity to discover the city’s hidden culinary gems.

Founder of Galway Food Tours,Sheena Dignam, “We are honoured to be included, this acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication of our team and the incredible culinary talent we have in Galway. We look forward to welcoming food enthusiasts from around the world to join us in experiencing the magic of autumn in Galway.”

For more information about Galway Food Tours and to book your food adventure, check out www.galwayfoodtours.com.

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A Toast to Autumn: The Gallery Cafe in Gort unveils exciting new menus and an Autumn wine shop

September 21, 2023

This autumn, let The Gallery Cafe in Gort be your destination for memorable culinary experiences that capture the essence of the season, with the launch of enticing new evening and brunch menus, alongside the debut of their wine shop.

The Gallery Cafe, located in the historic market town of Gort, County Galway, is more than just a cafe; it is a restaurant and art gallery nestled within a beautifully restored building dating back to 1820. Founded in 2005 by artist and designer Sarah Harty, The Gallery Cafe celebrates local flavours through thoughtfully created food and art.

Start your autumn evening on a high note with baked Wicklow Blue cheese with roasted grapes and sourdough crisps, or succulent scallops paired with courgette, papadum, and a buttery sauce that is nothing short of divine.

For the main course, the menu boasts champions the land and sea, the humble cauliflower no more as it is served with black bean mole and beetroot pico, or savour the flavours of a striploin steak pappardelle accompanied by black kale and chestnut mushrooms for a hearty and satisfying dish.

Wrap up the evening on a sweet note with dessert options like a rich dark chocolate mousse, baked plum and walnuts, or a blackberry and hazelnut frangipane tart complemented by whiskey crème.

Do not miss their Sunday brunch experience, served from 10 am to 4pm, with a rotating menu that keeps things fresh and exciting every week. Some of the brunch stars have included Eggs in Purgatory – poached eggs with roasted tomatoes, chili, local kale, crumbled feta, and toasted sourdough. Or, if you are craving something richer, then it must be the Guinness-braised beef cheek McMuffin* with smoked cheddar, a fried egg, spiced apple, and leafy greens. And for those with a sweet tooth, the apple crumble French toast, tossed in cinnamon sugar and served with whipped cream and toasted almonds, is sweet perfection. Pair your meal with a specialty coffee or a mimosa for the perfect autumn brunch experience.

The Gallery Cafe Autumn wine shop is where wine enthusiasts can discover a curated collection of wines that pair exquisitely with the dishes created. From rich reds to crisp whites, expertly chosen by Argentina Sommelier Gabriel Perez Levitzky. The wine list features mostly organic wines from some of Europe’s finest wine-producing regions, including France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Austria. Explore a diverse range of terroirs, climates, and altitudes, from sparkling Blanquette de Limoux to Austrian Pet Nat Roses, classical French Sauvignon blancs, and modern Gruner Veltliners. Sip on oaky Riojas Reserva or elegant Spatburgunders (Pinot Noir) from Germany that only elevate the flavourful creations of Head Chef Hannah O’Donnell.

“We are thrilled to welcome autumn at The Gallery Cafe,” says Owner Sarah Harty. Our new menus reflect the essence of the season, highlighting the finest ingredients and flavours that autumn has to offer. The addition of our wine shop allows our guests to enjoy the perfect wine pairings with their meals or to take home to enjoy.”

The Gallery Café, The Square, Gort, Co Galway is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm with evening menus on Friday and Saturday until 9pm. They have two sittings 6pm/6.30pm and 8.30pm.  For reservations and more information, call 091-630630 or connect on Instagram and Facebook at The Gallery Cafe. Visit www.thegallerycafegort.com to explore menus, events, and more.

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Go on a Mystery Food Tour in Galway

September 18, 2023

The Mystery Tours will run on Thursday 26th October the exact venues will be kept secret but will be in walking distance throughout central Galway City centre and around the west end area. At the four mystery venues, it will be a celebration of local food and of course there will be plenty of tasty tipples to whet your appetite throughout the evening.

Starting time is 4pm from outside McCambridges on Shop Street. Book now at www.galwayfoodtours.com  The Tour will take place over two hours. The cost is €45pp and limited to a max of 12 people.

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Callout for Volunteers for Baboró International Arts Festival for Children

September 18, 2023

Since Baboró’s foundation in 1997, volunteers have helped to inspire children to engage with the world through their experience of the arts. Now in its 27th year, the annual festival reaches thousands of children across the city and county. 

Volunteers are invited to apply for this year’s festival, taking place from 13 – 22 October, 2023. Volunteers will be based in different venues throughout the city, helping to create a positive Baboró experience for audiences. Volunteering during the festival is also a wonderful way to meet a great bunch of people, with many returning to volunteer year after year. 

Benefits of volunteering: by volunteering with Baboró you will be part of a team who plays a huge part in creating wonderful experiences for children, families, and carers.

You will get to see the behind the scenes of the Festival, you will interact with artists and audiences alike and you will meet new people, we guarantee that most likely you will make new friendships!

Deadline for applications: Thursday 28th September

For more information, contact our Baboró’s Festival Team Coordinator, Elena, at team@baboro.ie. or at www.baboro.ie

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Magical Dragon to roam the streets of Galway

July 19, 2023

This Friday….. Dragon

As part of Galway International Arts Festival The Kings Head are delighted to support the Irish premiere of Dragon, a fantastic creature that will pass through the streets of Galway. This free street performance will allow us to dive into this extraordinary world, as an enormous Dragon wanders the medieval streets of Galway!

Dragon will run 3 times during the festival – Friday 21 July 9.30pm, Saturday 22 July 2pm and 9.30pm. The route is Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch via the O’Brien’s Bridge & Dominick St. Lower.

Look at the fire, witness the shadows dancing in the night. Let the Dragon make your forgotten dreams come true!

Artistic Director and producer Pierre Povigna created Planète Vapeur in 2006. Having studied architecture, Povigna was always passionate about complex mechanisms and giant biomechanical machines. Working with a team of technicians and artists, Planète Vapeur bring fantastic and magical worlds to life.

“Galway International Arts Festival is the highlight of our year at The Kings Head. We have been involved as a venue since the late eighties and look forward to hosting Lunchtime Comedy with the ‘Laughter Loft’ again this year. This year is extra special, as we are lending our support to this amazing, family friendly, free event. Dragon will give that sense of magic on the streets of Galway that we have come to expect every July from Galway International Arts Festival,” said Paul Grealish of The Kings Head.



Check out https://www.thekingshead.ie/ or https://www.giaf.ie/festival/event/dragon for more.