As anticipation builds for the much-awaited 6th annual Causeway Awards, we grabbed a chat with award-winning radio presenter Claire Kinnaird, who will be hosting our Gala Black Tie Celebration Awards Night.
With over ten years' experience in radio under her belt, Claire is an expert communicator and a professional events host. Here, we ask her about her Celtic connections, what she’s most looking forward to about the awards and what it takes to get a celebration started...
No stranger to awards yourself, what does it mean to be part of the Causeway Awards Gala Celebrations this year?
“It’s a great honour to be involved in something so prestigious. Seeing the looks on the faces of the winners is always priceless, and generally it’s great to see how happy everyone is to be nominated - just to be there in that atmosphere is amazing.”
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to Ireland/Scotland?
“Being born and raised in Scotland makes for an easy connection, however my mum also lived in Dublin for two years and was part of the construction team that built terminal 2 in Dublin airport.”
What do you most enjoy about hosting events?
“I love hosting events, anything from ladies lunches to race days, everyone is always happy to be there. Awards are even more special as these can mean so much to an individual or a business and can really empower people.”
What awards categories are you most excited by?
“It’s always exciting to see what people from other countries think of your products, so I’ll be keeping an eye on the Scottish Exports category - and it’s great to support anyone up and coming or just starting out in their careers, so it's worth keeping an eye on the Rising Star!”
How can guests make the most of networking opportunities at the event?
“I think events like these can be a great opportunity to network. You can bump into someone, get chatting and create a relationship that might come in handy in future!
“My advice: chat to everyone. We know both sides of the Irish Sea love a blether - engage in conversation, switch business cards and embrace the event.”
We are so pleased events are back in full swing after so long. Which side of the Irish Sea do you think throw the best parties?
“It would be savage for me to go against Scotland being from the area - and definitely having thrown what I’d categorise as a great party! But when you see the crowds celebrating St Patrick’s Day - it’s a tricky one. I’m going to stay on the fence!”
What does it take to throw a good knees-up - What are some of your tricks for getting people in the mood for a celebration?
“I don’t know many people - in Scotland anyway - who can resist a Ceilidh. A good old Gay Gordon’s or Strip the Willow will have everyone on their feet!
“In general, though - great company will win anyone over, and there will be plenty of that in store at the Awards!”
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Discover the shortlist for the 2022 Causeway Awards here.