Róis-Máire Donnelly will take office as Belfast’s Lord Mayor for the 2026-27 term. She is a 30-year-old Ballymurphy native and a fluent Irish speaker with a background in grassroots community work and youth development. She studied psychology at Queen’s University Belfast and previously worked as an operations manager at Active Communities Network, using sport and activities to support disadvantaged communities. Her activism includes volunteering with Integrated Services for Children and Young People and local sporting groups. She has also supported people with mental ill health, learning disabilities, autism, and dementia. After three and a half years as a Sinn Féin councillor in the Black Mountain ward, she is preparing for the biggest role yet while balancing personal commitments.
"“During my time as a councillor I have learnt that no two days are the same and the skills I have learnt will be transferable into this role,” she said."
"“I found out [I would be mayor] a few weeks ago and had to keep it quiet. I am very excited for the opportunity, but I know it is a big responsibility."
"“I am nervous as well, because I just want to do a really good job of representing my area and the city as a whole.”"
"She is currently an operations manager at Active Communities Network, a youth and community development organisation that uses sport and activities to work with disadvantaged communities. It was through this work that Ms Donnelly discovered her passion for grassroots activism, volunteering with Integrated Services for Children and Young People in the Upper Springfield alongside youth charity Active Communities Network and local sporting group Cumann Spóirt an Phobail."
Read at Irish Independent
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