13.
Limerick Rose Molli-Ann O'Halloran Hiya, my name is Molli-Ann, I am 19 years old, and I’m from Limerick City. As a proud representative of my beloved Treaty City, I’m delighted to represent my county. I work in Bunratty Castle as an Irish traditional singer. It’s great to have a laugh and chat with people from all walks of life. Working in a castle has its perks, I get to dress as a princess and sing, happy days! I’m currently studying Music and soon hope to study Social Studies to broaden my communication skills with children and young adults, and want to incorporate music as a method of communication. I’m a young woman living with Autism. I’m a passionate advocate for individuals with Autism also. I love to speak and raise awareness to create positive change. I like to bake, try new things and push myself out of my comfort zone. Music is my passion. I enjoy busking with Novas to help spread some joy at Christmas time through song. I am driven and compassionate. A motto I live by is “just keep swimming”. I’m excited to experience Tralee and make the most of this amazing opportunity!
14.
London Rose Amy Gillen My name is Amy, and I am 27 years old. I am from Donegal but have been living in the vibrant heart of London for the last number of years. I am privileged to represent the Irish community in London as the 2023 London Rose. My parents live in Donegal and my family are living in Derry, Meath, Kildare, Sligo, and Dublin. They are excited about attending the Rose of Tralee International Festival! I graduated from the RIAM and the Royal College of Music London in 2020 with a Distinction Masters in Music in Jazz and Classical Flute. I am a product of Music Generation and the local and National Youth Orchestras. I am passionate about music. I teach music at the Westminster Performing Arts School based at St Andrew’s Youth Club in Westminster. I am developing my career as a solo performer and collaborator, and played at the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival, Waterford, in venues in Ireland and around the world. I recently released my debut CD, ‘Flute-Chapters’. I am grateful to my sponsor, Falcon Green, whom I work with part-time. I am looking forward to Tralee, making wonderful memories and meeting inspirational women!
15.
Longford Rose Grace Kemple Hi! My name is Grace, I am 23 years old and I am the Longford Rose for 2023. I have lived in Longford all of my life and I am so honoured to be representing my county in the Rose of Tralee International Festival. I am a Registered General Nurse and currently doing my Higher Diploma in Midwifery. I am studying this in Trinity College Dublin. As part of my studies, I also work in The Coombe Hospital. Becoming a midwife has always been my dream job, it is such a privilege to help bring new life into the world. I have delivered 31 babies so far; I still get emotional every time! I love being active. I enjoy the gym, pilates and walking my dog, Freddie. I am extremely close with my family, some of whom live in Tralee, and are very excited for August! I have been in Tralee many times during the Festival, but I am thrilled to be a part of it this year. I am really looking forward to the Festival, meeting new people and enjoying the experience with all of the other Roses!
16.
Mayo Rose Kate Heneghan Dia dhaoibh go léir ó Chontae Mhaigh Eo! My name is Kate, and I am a 27 year old harpist, violinist and pianist from Castlebar. I am very honoured to represent my beloved County Mayo in Tralee this year. Since graduating with a Masters in Music Composition from Ulster University, I have worked as a Classical Content Specialist for global music streaming platforms. At the age of 18 I was very fortunate to be able to combine my Undergraduate Degree in Music while touring the world as a musician. I am also very passionate about sharing my love of music with others: I teach music in both genres of Irish traditional and classical music. My family and I formed ‘Westport Scoil Cheoil’ a summer school dedicated to teaching Irish music and promoting Irish culture. As well as teaching music, I regularly host music radio programmes and volunteer as a musician and MC at charity concerts. Sport is another great passion of mine, and of course I am a loyal Mayo supporter! I am a qualified personal trainer and hiking is one of my favourite pastimes.