Rose of Tralee International Festival
Meet the 2026 International Roses
The Rose of Tralee returns to the Kingdom from August 14th–August 18th. Roses representing Ireland and abroad will take to the stage at the Kerry Sports Academy at the MTU on August 17th and 18th.
The 2026 International Rose Centres this year are:
Carolina
Cavan
Chicago
Clare
Cork
Derry
Donegal
Dublin
Galway
Kerry
Kildare
Kilkenny
Leitrim
London
Louth
Melbourne
Monaghan
Newfoundland & Labrador
New York
New Zealand
Perth
Roscommon
San Francisco
Sligo
Texas
Tipperary
Toronto
UAE
Waterford
Westmeath
Wicklow
Yorkshire
Carolina Rose
Grace O'Halloran
Carolina Rose
Grace O'Halloran
My name is Grace, and I’m 28 years old. I grew up in Connecticut, though I’ve called North Carolina home for nearly a decade. I attended Wake Forest University to study English and Entrepreneurship, with some specialized courses in Irish Literature. I’ve recently joined an advertising technology startup after beginning my career at an ad agency, focused on international markets. I love to travel, spend time with family and friends, cheer on college football, and try new recipes. This fall, I took my first solo trip, where I attended a weeklong cooking course on a farm in Italy. I’m delighted to represent the Carolinas in Tralee. This experience is a tribute to the legacy of my wonderful Dad and grandparents (from Dublin and Mayo). They’d think it’s absolutely great craic and are surely smiling from above. My love of my Irish heritage is inextricably tied to my love for them. Their influence on my life is without a doubt the reason I applied for the Rose of Tralee. A fun fact - my aunt was the Toronto Rose in 1979!
Cavan Rose
Gráinne Burns
Cavan Rose
Gráinne Burns
Hi! My name is Gráinne, I’m 28 years old and I’m from Cavan Town. After living in Vancouver, Canada for two years from 2022-2024, I now find myself happily back in Cavan, working as a medical lab aide in Cavan General Hospital and with some encouragement from my colleagues I am now hoping to further my education to become a medical scientist. In the past few years, I started crocheting as a pastime which I now share so fondly with my Mam. From starting off with scarfs and hats we now love to make bigger pieces like jumpers and cardigans. We have started to participate in local markets and really enjoy seeing how happy our customers are walking home with our pieces. If I’m not crocheting, you will probably find me with my head in a book or in my local cinema catching up on the newest movie. I am truly honoured to be representing Cavan in the 2026 Rose of Tralee International Festival, and I am so excited for the incredible journey ahead!
Chicago Rose
Fiona Gaffney
Chicago Rose
Fiona Gaffney
Dia duit! Is mise Fiona. I am 26 years old and a proud first-generation Irish American from Chicago. My Irish connection is through my mom, born in Westmeath and raised in Waterford. My grandparents hail from Wexford. I have Galway and Leitrim heritage through my dad. I earned my bachelor’s in biophysics and microbiology from Michigan (Go Blue!). My career is in food safety. I recently graduated with my master's in public health stemming from my passion for science accessibility and women's health advocacy. The Chicago Irish community is my second family. I serve on the executive committee of Ireland Network Chicago and am Vice President of Cultural Affairs for the Young Irish Fellowship Club of Chicago. I have studied Irish with Na Gaeil Chicago for three years and attended Oideas Gael under a 2025 Summer Gaeltacht Award. I'm a lifelong swimmer which led to playing water polo. I ran the 2024 Dublin Marathon for DePaul Ireland and will run the 2026 Chicago Marathon. I am incredibly honored to represent Chicago and excited for this journey with my fellow Roses.
Clare Rose
Méabh Holland
Clare Rose
Méabh Holland
Dia dhaoibh! Méabh is ainm dom agus is Cláiríneach bródúil mé! I am 22 years old and I come from the village of Sixmilebridge and I am a primary school teacher i nGaelscoil. Is breá liom an Ghaeilge and I spend my summers teaching Gaeilge in Conamara. I grew up playing the concertina and now it’s amazing to be teaching music with Music Generation Clare and The Irish Concertina Orchestra bringing the music to the next generation. I love to stay active, training at the gym, competing in Hyrox, and running races - it’s all go! I love to travel and explore new places but there’s no better place than Clare! I love being involved in my community and act as PRO creating social media content for my local athletics club and community games branch. I am an outgoing person, full of energy. I love socialising and meeting new people. It is the honour of a lifetime to be representing the Banner County in the Rose of Tralee International Festival and I cannot wait for the exciting adventures ahead!
Cork Rose
Lexi Linnane
Cork Rose
Lexi Linnane
My name is Lexi and I feel incredibly privileged to be the 2026 Cork Rose. I am 19 years old and from Mahon in Cork City. I am currently studying Early Years and Childhood Studies while also teaching dance and working in content creation. Performing has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have a passion for dance, singing, and acting, and I have performed on stages across Europe. One of my favourite roles, however, is being a teacher. There is nothing more rewarding than watching young people grow in confidence, discover their talents, and develop a belief in themselves. I love seeing students embrace new challenges and realise their potential through the performing arts. When I’m not teaching, studying, or creating content, I’m usually spending time with family or making memories with friends. The people closest to me are a huge part of my life, and I love nothing more than sharing laughs and quality time with them. My long-term ambition is to open my own stage school and create a positive environment where young people can develop confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love for performing.
Derry Rose
Cará Hamilton
Derry Rose
Cará Hamilton
Dia duit! Is mise Cará, I am 21 years old, and I live in Derry City, specifically an area called Top of the Hill.” I have recently completed my degree in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice, and I hope to join An Garda Síochána, as I have a passion for helping others and keeping people safe. Growing up in Derry has made me a very talkative and friendly person. I enjoy playing Gaelic football for my local club, Na Piarsaigh, where I play on our first-ever senior ladies’ team, established this year. I love keeping active, but I also enjoy spending time with the girls on the team, as many of us grew up together. I also achieved my Fáinne after studying Irish for eight years throughout school. In my spare time, I love continuing to learn Irish and helping my younger sister work towards getting her Fáinne too. I am delighted to have been selected as the Derry Rose for 2026, and I cannot wait to represent my community, as I am incredibly proud to be a Derry Girl!
Donegal Rose
Emma Nelis
Donegal Rose
Emma Nelis
Dia duit, my name is Emma Nelis. I am 24 years old and I come from the rural area of Gartan in County Donegal, the birthplace of St. Colmcille. Growing up in the countryside, some of my fondest memories include helping on the family farm, spending summers jumping across bales, and building a treehouse with my cousin. After secondary school, I moved to Galway to study History and English before completing a Master's in Education with Hibernia College. I now teach in Errigal College, Letterkenny, where I enjoy supporting young people and helping them reach their full potential. I am a very family-oriented person and spend much of my free time with my family. Gaelic football is a huge part of my life, and one of my biggest achievements is winning an All-Ireland title with my local club. I also coach underage teams, enjoy travelling, and catching up with friends over a walk and a coffee. I am so excited about this experience and the opportunity to create lasting memories with all my Rose sisters.
Dublin Rose
Suad Mooge
Dublin Rose
Suad Mooge
Hi! Suad here. I'm proud to represent Dublin in this year's Rose of Tralee International Festival. I was born in Sligo where we did a brief stint along Cartron Bay. Shortly after, we made the journey to our Dublin home. I spent my formative years studying medical science at Technological University Dublin. I’m 26 years old now, and I've worked as a medical scientist in histology labs since 2022. I am also a youth leader with Sports Against Racism Ireland. I started as a footballer with their women's team, Diverse FC. Unfortunately, recurrent knee injuries prevented me from going pro. I'm an avid runner and completed the London Marathon in 2026. I co-founded Amanah Runclub - a running community by women for women. I am a serial hobbyist which includes but is not limited to - muay thai, kung fu, gym, hyrox, styling & thrifting. I'm also a proud business owner, Cak'd Up Dublin, as of 2026. I'm grateful to partake in the 2026 Rose Festival and can't wait to see what the future holds. Slán agus beannacht.
Galway Rose
Jodie Kenny
Galway Rose
Jodie Kenny
Hello! My name is Jodie, and I am a 23-year-old primary school teacher from Oughterard, a small town in county Galway. Last year I graduated from Mary Immaculate College and since then, I have spent the first year of my career teaching Junior Infants in my local primary school. I am really passionate about education and love helping my students to reach their full potential both personally and academically. I hope to further my studies in the future, completing my doctorate to become an Educational Psychologist.
I have a huge love for travel and gaining new experiences. I have spent a couple of summers abroad and was also awarded a scholarship to study briefly in New York. I am known for always saying yes to spontaneous plans and new opportunities. I have also been an ambassador for a fundraiser in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland, a role which I found deeply rewarding. In my spare time you’ll find me keeping active, coaching football, grabbing a coffee with friends or heading for a swim and sauna session by the sea.
Kerry Rose
Caoimhe Lynch
Kerry Rose
Caoimhe Lynch
My name is Caoimhe, I am 28 years old and currently work in Ballymun as a Secondary School Chaplain and English teacher. In 2024, I founded “The Light House Project,” which supports communities facing poverty and social challenges. Built on the values of love, compassion, kindness, and connection, our voluntary organisation strives to create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. We do this through a variety of activities, programmes, and community events. Music is a huge part of who I am, and I direct The Kingdom Gospel Choir in Killarney, which has over 100 members. It is a feel-good choir where people come together to sing their hearts out and leave feeling uplifted. I am a real people person and enjoy connecting with individuals from all walks of life. I am blessed with amazing friends, and I love good chats over coffee. I enjoy travelling, especially when visiting friends who live abroad… I love nothing more than a Lynch family music session! I am delighted to be representing Kerry in the 2026 Rose of Tralee International Festival.
Kildare Rose
Jessica Hunter
Kildare Rose
Jessica Hunter
Hi there! I’m Jess. I’m 28 years old and a proud woman from Kildare Town. With an Irish mam and a dad from Hong Kong, I have embraced the blend of both cultures that have shaped me. As a little girl I was often flying between Ireland and Hong Kong. That is probably what led me to become cabin crew for the best part of eight years with Aer Lingus and Emirates, where I spent two years living in Dubai. Being crew has allowed my grá for people, travel and creating little moments of magic to blossom over the years. My boyfriend Jack and I love adventure and have been working our way through an alphabet dating list, from Archery to the Zoo. I love volunteering with Barretstown and believe magic should not be limited by illness. My faith, family and friends are the compass that guide me, and I hope to inspire young women to stand confidently in who they are, with grace, courage and pride. My journey as a Rose so far has been an honour and I can’t wait to meet more of my Rose Sisters!
Kilkenny Rose
Rachel Walsh
Kilkenny Rose
Rachel Walsh
Hello everyone! My name is Rachel, I’m a 24 year old student from Threecastles in Kilkenny, currently studying Public Relations and Media at SETU Carlow. I’m incredibly passionate about storytelling, creativity, and connecting people through meaningful communication. I love bringing ideas to life, whether that’s through digital campaigns, content creation, or community-focused projects, and I’m always looking for new ways to engage and inspire others. Growing up in Kilkenny has given me a strong appreciation for local culture, heritage, and the power of community spirit. It’s something that has really shaped who I am and continues to influence both my personal and professional outlook. Alongside my studies, I work within my family business, which has taught me the value of hard work, teamwork, and staying grounded. Outside of that, I very much enjoy staying active in the gym, keeping up with fashion and media trends, and expressing myself creatively through design and content. I’m so proud of where I come from, and I’m really excited for everything that lies ahead.
Leitrim Rose
Catherine Cullen
Leitrim Rose
Catherine Cullen
Hello! My name is Catherine Cullen. I am a 21-year-old Physiotherapy student studying at UCD. I come from a farming background just outside Carrick-on-Shannon, County Leitrim. I am an Irish traditional musician, sean-nós dancer, and lilter. Growing up in a county steeped in culture has given me a deep appreciation for the stories, songs, and customs that connect generations. A tradition close to my heart is lilting (portaireacht), a unique form of Irish mouth music. As a self-taught lilter, I was honoured to win the All-Ireland Senior Lilting title at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024. Through music and dance, I have met incredible people across Ireland and overseas, proving that music truly is a universal language. Alongside studying Physiotherapy, I teach music, lilting, and sean-nós dancing. At weekends, I work in Cryan's Teach Ceoil, where I love meeting local characters and hearing the stories that keep our community's history alive. Community is at the heart of everything I do, and I am incredibly honoured to represent lovely Leitrim and excited for the journey ahead.
London Rose
Ciara Fallon
London Rose
Ciara Fallon
My name is Ciara, I’m 27 and I am delighted to represent London. I was born in Dublin and raised in Wembley alongside my three sisters in a proud Irish family with roots in Dublin, Kerry and Galway. I completed my school days in Harrow before studying Medicine at the University of East Anglia. I completed an intercalated degree in Endocrinology at Imperial College London, where my research on health inequalities was published in a Medical Journal. I currently have the pleasure of working as an A&E doctor, caring for people from all walks of life alongside the most amazing team. Outside of work, I love travelling and have spent recent years exploring the world, often as a solo traveller. Growing up in one of the most multicultural cities has given me a diverse group of friends and a genuine curiosity about people. It has strengthened my pride in my Irish identity and the value of where we come from. My friends know there is always a cup of tea and a warm welcome waiting at the Fallon house.
Louth Rose
Chloe Moran
Louth Rose
Chloe Moran
Hello, I’m Chloe, I’m 23, and I come from Dundalk in the “Wee County”. I’m a qualified Biomedical Scientist and going into my final year of General Nursing. I love the people, the stories, and the power of a good cup of tea and a chat! I’m the eldest and only girl, so my brothers keep me busy! I love the chaos of a busy house and I wouldn’t be without it! I love having the craic and meeting new people. I tend to say things as they are. I get on with everybody and could talk to a hole in a pot. I now work in a role supporting people with disabilities. I enjoy getting them involved in their community and helping them to live their best lives! I love my job and believe that being happy in work is so important! On my days off, you’ll find me at the gym or doing a bit of farming. I’m a true townie at heart, but I got involved in lambing this year and I enjoyed every minute of it!
Melbourne Rose
Mikaela Whitty
Melbourne Rose
Mikaela Whitty
G’day/Dia Duit! I’m Mikaela, I'm 28 years old, and my story involves some back and forth. I was born in Melbourne, moved to Ireland as a three-year-old, and emigrated to Australia ten years later, where I have lived ever since. Having spent my formative years between Ireland and Australia, I am proud to call both places home. With family stretching from Wexford to Dublin to Donegal, and a strong Irish community in Melbourne, my heritage has always been an important part of my identity. It continues to shape things that I enjoy, from attending the Gaelic Games and shouting for the Irish girls in the AFLW, to concerts featuring Irish artists and tucking into a spice bag. I am completing a PhD in Microbiology at La Trobe University, where I spend my days running experiments and asking questions (usually rhetorical and often to myself!). Outside the lab, I love keeping active, indulging in a bakery treat and watching live sport—anything but cricket. I am proud to represent the modern Australian-Irish story and look forward to sharing it in Tralee.
Monaghan Rose
Leah Murphy
Monaghan Rose
Leah Murphy
Dia Daoibh! Is mise Leah, I’m 25 years old and I’m from a village in Monaghan called Emyvale. I completed my secondary education through the medium of Irish at Coláiste Oiriall in Monaghan, where I fell head over heels i ngrá with the language. Over the past few years, I have created Irish-language content on social media to help normalise its everyday use and to show people that it is far more than just a school subject. I graduated from Queen’s University Belfast in 2022 with a BSc in Computing & Information Technology. Since my placement year in 2020, I have worked at a FinTech company called Options Technology, where I am now the Manager of the Belfast Support Team. I am proud to be a woman in STEM in a male-dominated industry and as a Rose, not only do I want to inspire people to embrace the Irish language, but I also hope to encourage young women to pursue STEM opportunities. I’m very honoured to represent Monaghan and can’t wait to meet all of my Rose sisters in Tralee!
Newfoundland & Labrador Rose
Kathleen Murphy
Newfoundland & Labrador Rose
Kathleen Murphy
Hi I’m Kathleen, I’m 24 years old and I am from Tors Cove, a small community in Newfoundland and Labrador located in an area aptly named The Irish Loop. I work as a Sales Analyst at Nasdaq Verafin. In my role, I educate financial institutions on our product, which helps detect various types of financial crime including human trafficking and terrorist financing. I am passionate about leadership and community building and recently I have joined the Board of Directors for the Miss Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador Leadership Program. Each year we hold a conference to inspire young women to become leaders in their own community. The environment and sustainability have always been some of my great passions, especially when it comes to fashion. This year, I’ve challenged myself to not buy any new clothing as one of the most sustainable things you can do is thrift or wear what you already own! I am very proud of my Irish heritage and I can’t wait to showcase the influence that Irish culture has on my beautiful province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
New York Rose
Ciara McGinty
New York Rose
Ciara McGinty
Hello! My name is Ciara and I am 25 years old. My mom, Elaine, is from Leixlip, Kildare and my dad, Rob, is from New York, with both of his parents being from Ireland. Together with my sister Ava and my brother Rory, we were fortunate to travel to Ireland every summer for 6 weeks, which allowed us to build the strong relationships with our family and friends in Ireland we have today. I am a first grade teacher in the Bronx. I live in Woodlawn, where there is a strong Irish community. I am the Vice President of the Kildare Association of New York and a delegate for the United Irish Counties Association of New York. I love spending time with my family and friends and have a love for travel! In 2022, I travelled around Europe with my cousin, Shannon, and some friends. Recently, I travelled to the Dominican Republic with my boyfriend, Shane. It’s been a privilege to be selected as the 2026 New York Rose, and I am so excited for all that is to come!
New Zealand Rose
Rachel Keane
New Zealand Rose
Rachel Keane
Dia Dhaoibh & Kia Ora, I’m Rachel (29), from a farming family in Dunhill, Co. Waterford - the Sunny Southeast - where you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who loves their county more. I moved to New Zealand for its beautiful outdoors and career opportunities, and now live by the sea in Auckland, where I work as a dietitian in New Zealand’s busiest hospital. This year, I completed IRONMAN New Zealand: a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle, and full marathon. There were tears on the bike, a few questions about my life choices along the way, but pure joy at the finish line, surrounded by friends. I’ve run marathons fundraising for Palestine, played camogie for Auckland, taught swimming with Special Olympics New Zealand and, following in the footsteps of my grandaunt Bid, volunteered in Zambia and Fiji. Proud to represent Mná na hÉireann, I believe in whakawhanaungatanga (creating meaningful connections) while contributing to the Irish story that continues to grow in Aotearoa by building a sense of belonging with people and place wherever life takes me.
Perth Rose
Anna Clancy
Perth Rose
Anna Clancy
Dia daoibh! My name is Anna Clancy, I’m 28 and I come from the real capital of Ireland, Cork! I am currently living in Western Australia, and I’m delighted to be representing Perth in this year’s Rose of Tralee Festival. I studied medicine at University College Cork and worked as a doctor in Galway before making the big move to Australia. I absolutely love living in Perth and I have the Irish community to thank for making it feel like a home away from home here. The blue skies are good for the soul, and the work-life balance feels like I’m on permanent summer holidays again! From tennis to reading to sunset swims, I can see why people call it Tír na n-Óg. I’ve really enjoyed my Rose journey so far. I’ve always loved watching the Rose of Tralee and I am absolutely honoured to be part of such a special festival—one that connects Irish people abroad with each other, and, more importantly, with those 15,000 km away. Bring on Tralee!
Roscommon Rose
Rebecca Collins
Roscommon Rose
Rebecca Collins
Hi! My name is Rebecca, I am 24 years old and the eldest of three children. I come from the parish of Kiltoom in the beautiful county of Roscommon. I have an outgoing, positive personality and love meeting new people and making new friends. I am a Home Economics and religion teacher and am delighted to be back teaching in my old secondary school. My skills include cooking, sewing, drama and soccer, all of which have played a huge part in my life. Some of my achievements to date include playing lead roles in productions such as Sive and Steel Magnolias, as well as performing in Dancing at Lughnasa. Sport has always been a big part of my life, and I have won many leagues and cups with my soccer teams, while also previously playing Gaelic football and hockey. I am deeply honoured to represent the Primrose and Blue in Tralee this year and cannot wait for all the fun, craic and friendships to come, and to make memories that will last a lifetime!
San Francisco Rose
Sarah Johnston
San Francisco Rose
Sarah Johnston
Hello! I’m Sarah and I am so honored to represent the San Francisco Irish-American community this year at the Rose of Tralee. I am 24 years old and from San Mateo, California. I graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a degree in Environmental Design and currently work managing my family’s restaurant in San Carlos, California, Johnston’s Saltbox. My dad’s people are from Portstewart, Co Derry, and Toomebridge, Co Antrim, and my mom’s people are from Glenullin, Co Derry, and Ballydesmond, Co Cork. I am so proud to be Irish-American; it makes the world a little smaller, from leaning on my local community after the death of my Grandpa Brian, to hearing a familiar accent while in New Zealand and finding out they’re regulars at my family’s pub in Coleraine (shoutout Railway Arms!). In my free time I love to golf, catch flights, and hike with my golden retriever, Doc. I am so thrilled to meet new friends for life in my fellow Roses, experience Ireland through a new lens, and make memories to last a lifetime in Tralee.
Sligo Rose
Bethany McLoughlin
Sligo Rose
Bethany McLoughlin
Hello! My name is Bethany McLoughlin. I’m 29 from beautiful Sligo. I’ve a Bachelors Honours Degree in Early Childhood Care and Education. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with children for a number of years before pursuing my love for music. I teach piano and I’m now a member of The Atlantic Wedding Band and I’m blessed to travel around Ireland and abroad with an amazing group of lads where the craic is always had! I enjoy theatre and dancing, having taken part in a number of musicals over the years. I enjoy the the outdoors, kayaking, walking and travelling! I’m actively involved in charity work and enjoy doing what I can to help others. I love spending time with my family, who mean the world to me! They have always been my inspiration and along with my community have been a great sense of encouragement and support on my journey. I can’t wait to share this experience with my fellow rose sisters, and I am honoured to partake in and represent Sligo in the Rose of Tralee festival 2026.
Texas Rose
Ally Padgett
Texas Rose
Ally Padgett
Hi, y’all! My name is Ally, and I am delighted to represent Texas at the 2026 Rose of Tralee International Festival. I am 29 years old, born and raised in the capital city of Austin, Texas. I began Irish dancing at the age of eight, and I am so fortunate that dance led me to be so deeply immersed in the vibrant Irish community in Texas. After earning my undergraduate degree in Studio Art, I started working in graphic design. I am a Senior Art Director who has worked for two global creative agencies designing and producing social media content. In my free time, I love traveling and making connections with different places and people. I enjoy creating and viewing art of all mediums, supporting artists and musicians, learning new things, and spending time with my friends and family. My Irish heritage comes from County Tipperary. As the Texas Rose, I can’t wait to share this journey with all the Roses and celebrate our Irish culture that spreads across the globe. Texas, I hope I make you proud!
Tipperary Rose
Fiona Kennedy
Tipperary Rose
Fiona Kennedy
Hello, my name is Fiona, I am 25 years old and proudly from Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. After five years studying at St Angela’s College, Sligo, I achieved my dream of becoming a teacher and now teach Home Economics and Religious Education in Fethard. Teaching is something I’m truly passionate about. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing students grow in confidence, discover their strengths, and reach their full potential. When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll usually find me baking. What started as a hobby has grown into a small cake business, creating cakes for all occasions and allowing me to share something I love with others. I spend my summers in Maharees, Castlegregory, where my love for the sea began. Whether kitesurfing, waterskiing or coasteering, I’m always happiest outdoors and embracing a challenge. I also enjoy keeping active and despite living with arthritis, recently completed my first half marathon, raising funds for Arthritis Ireland, a charity that has supported me and remains very close to my heart. I’m incredibly honoured to represent Tipperary and excited for the journey ahead.
Toronto Rose
Kylie Paliani
Toronto Rose
Kylie Paliani
Hi! I’m Kylie, I’m 28, and I live and work in Oakville just outside Toronto. Originally from London, Ontario, I’m a proud Western University graduate, holding a Master of Engineering Science in Biomedical Engineering. By day, I’m an Associate Account Manager at Smith & Nephew, where I have the privilege of supporting surgeons and bringing innovative medical technology into the operating room. My Irish roots come from my mom’s side. My mom was originally from Dublin, my grandma from Clare, and my granda from Tipperary, which allowed me to obtain my Irish passport! My love for my heritage turned into a lifelong passion for Irish dance, competing for 20+ years and attending the Worlds Championships 11 times! Today, I stay connected to that passion by teaching and performing with two professional companies. Having balanced both the technical rigor of Engineering with the discipline of elite dance, I’ve learned that we don't have to choose just one path. I’m deeply passionate about empowering women to embrace their multifaceted talents and believe in their abilities to succeed in any field they choose.
UAE Rose
Enya Crone
UAE Rose
Enya Crone
Hello! I’m Enya, I’m 22 years old, and honoured to be representing the UAE. Born and raised in Dubai to an Irish mum and an Australian dad, I’ve always felt lucky growing up surrounded by different cultures while staying deeply connected to my Irish roots. My sister and I spent every summer in Gweedore, Donegal, and thanks to our mum and the wonderful Irish community in Dubai, we grew up celebrating Irish culture year-round. As well as Gaelic Football, Irish dancing was a huge part of my childhood. I had the opportunity to perform around Dubai, and my sister and I became the first from the UAE to qualify and compete at the World Championships. This year, I completed a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and Economics at the University of York, including a placement year working across Dubai and Melbourne. I’ve always believed that the best experiences come from saying yes to new opportunities, looking for the positives along the way and encouraging others to do the same. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to Tralee!
Waterford Rose
Cara Comerford
Waterford Rose
Cara Comerford
Hi! My name is Cara, I’m 21 years old, and I come from Portlaw in County Waterford, a small village I’m proud to call home. From a young age, I found a love for Irish dancing, and I have proudly been a member of the Mulcahy Bible School of Irish Dance since the age of four. Dancing has played a huge role in shaping who I am today, giving me confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships. I am currently in my third year of Biomedical Engineering at Munster Technological University in Cork, where I am completing work placement with Stryker Neurovascular, a medical device company developing innovative treatments for stroke and other neurovascular conditions. I am really enjoying applying the knowledge I have gained in a real-world setting! I am absolutely thrilled to be representing Waterford and my home community of Portlaw in the 2026 Rose of Tralee International Festival. Having grown up watching the festival, and now following in my grandmother’s footsteps, it truly feels like a special, full-circle moment.
Westmeath Rose
Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh
Westmeath Rose
Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh
Is mise Caoilfhinn, I’m 25 and a proud Westmeath woman. I balance my retail work with studying to become a wig maker, a path inspired by losing my hair to alopecia at 15. I aim to support others facing hair loss through this work and as a founder of The Hair Loss Haven, a group offering support, events and meetups. A jack of all trades, I feel fortunate that local sports and arts have shaped my childhood. As I began to lose my hair I found more confidence in my words than my performance which led me to a passion for activism. For years I worked on youth initiatives with Comhairle Na nÓg and the Irish Second Level Students Union, however now I focus on being vocal about autoimmune conditions and alopecia. I like to keep myself busy, currently in a play, a musical, planning a Hair Loss Retreat and am tackling furnishing my new house. Balance is essential, and I take time to appreciate the small things in life and explore all my community has to offer.
Wicklow Rose
Carolann McDonald
Wicklow Rose
Carolann McDonald
Hi everyone, my name is Carolann. I am 24 years old and from Greystones, Co. Wicklow. I recently graduated with a Master’s degree in Pharmacy and now work as a locum pharmacist. I have an interest in health and wellbeing, and I find the most rewarding part of my job is listening to and supporting people in their day-to-day lives. I would describe myself as outgoing, friendly, and someone who enjoys connecting with others. I love travelling and exploring new places. I am always open to new experiences and stepping outside my comfort zone, especially with the support of my family, who have always encouraged me. Sport has played a major role in my life. I’m a proud member of Greystones Baton Twirlers, which has shaped my discipline and confidence and has given me the opportunity to represent Ireland at both European and World competitions. I’m incredibly proud to be representing Wicklow in the Rose of Tralee Festival, and I hope to be a positive role model and make my community proud. I can't wait to start the journey ahead!
Yorkshire Rose
Kerry Manze
Yorkshire Rose
Kerry Manze
My name is Kerry Manze, I am 22 years old and I proudly represent the Yorkshire Rose Centre. I am a final-year Adult Nursing student at Leeds Beckett University, due to qualify this year, with a passion for acute and emergency care. I grew up in Cambridgeshire and Rutland, UK and moved to Leeds when I was 18. I am half Irish (from my mother’s side), she grew up in Youghal Co. Cork. I spent most summers in Youghal visiting my Grandad and the rest of my family. Alongside my studies, I volunteer as a first responder at events to learn from paramedics, which has strengthened my confidence, teamwork and ability to stay calm under pressure. Before university, I worked in social care with children with additional needs, where I developed a love for communication and care. I would describe myself as a considerate person who values kindness and making others feel included. Outside of work, I love music, whether that’s singing, playing piano or just listening. I also enjoy spending time with my family, who are my biggest supporters.