The 2026 Galway Rose selection will be held at the Clayton Hotel this Saturday night starting at 7 p.m. Hosted by Galway Bay FM's Ollie Turner and judged by 2001 Limerick Rose Paula Gannon, 2017 Galway Rose Niamh Elwood, and 2022 Rose Escort of the Year Shane McHugh (from Belclare ), the event promises a great night of entertainment. Sponsored by The Eyre Square Centre and Galway Skin Clinic, there are 25 Galway Rose Entrants from every corner of the county onstage this Saturday, each with a story to share and talents galore to present. Accomplished, confident and inspiring women. The current Galway Rose. Deirdre Jennings spoke bravely about her mental health struggles on TV at the Rose of Tralee Festival and touched people all over Ireland with her story. The Galway Rose Centre is very proud of her work during her time as Rose. Galway Rose Coordinator Anne Marie Doyle promises it will be a night not to be missed. Tickets can be purchased directly from the Clayton Hotel or from the Rose finalists.
Abigail Dolphin - Sponsored by The Beauty Bee
Abigail is a vibrant 20-year-old from Loughrea. She is known for her warm personality and love of great conversation. She brings confidence and charm to all aspects of her life. When she isn’t studying to inspire the next generation as a second-year Primary Teaching student at Mary I, you’ll find her at Dessie O’Brien’s Bar. A familiar face there since sixteen. She thrives on the local banter, and has built a fantastic rapport with every customer. She has played the piano since the age of eight, and loves travelling, walking her dog Ella and enjoying a good cup of milky tea.
Ailbhe Seoighe - Sponsored by Club Áras na nGael
Ailbhe Seoighe is a 21-year-old, native, Irish speaker from Carraroe in Connemara. Currently studying Léann an Chumarsáid agus Aistriúcháin at the University of Galway, she hopes to be reading the news on TG4 one day - or at least have her mamó convinced that she’s famous. In 2025, she won the Cailín Gaelach title, and loves sharing her passion for Gaeilge. She’s also a singer-songwriter in English and Irish, winning an All-Ireland at 14 for a song about her dad in the army. Ailbhe enjoys dancing with her mamó, supporting her local football team, and spending time with her friends, family, and her dog Rua.
Aishlín Hennigan - Sponsored by O’Connell’s Bar, Galway
Born in New Zealand, Aishlín now proudly calls Galway home. Fittingly sponsored by O’Connell’s Bar, the title “Galway Girl” feels earned. As a Marketing Executive with some of the city’s most iconic bars, she has a genuine connection to Galway’s people and pulse. At 26, she enjoys getting involved in all sides of Galway life; from festivals and sport, to its’ lively nightlife. In her spare time, she values balance; whether that’s time in the gym, focusing on wellness, or creating content for TikTok, where her videos have gained millions of views. She shares authentic glimpses of life in Galway; from local gems, to behind-the-scenes of her career.
Amelia Turner - Sponsored by Cashel Festival
From the heart of Connemara, Amelia Turner, 20, is a second-year Architecture student at SETU, Waterford. She has a deep appreciation for creativity, culture and travel, with a particular love for art, design and historic architecture. Amelia enjoys painting, reading, collecting vinyl records and exploring inspiring places both at home and abroad. She was honoured to be named Connemara Rose 2024, and is proud to represent Galway. With a strong sense of community and a passion for giving back, she hopes to one day open her own architectural practice, while always remaining grounded in her roots, family and the place she proudly calls home.
Anna Banks - Sponsored by Rockmount AI Centre
Anna is a qualified Equine Dentist from Maigh Cuilinn, and is studying Veterinary Medicine in Košice, Slovakia. She studied Equine Dentistry in Idaho, USA, where she discovered her passion for working with animals, and the many opportunities within the field. For the past few years, she has worked at Rockmount AI Centre, where she was inspired to further her studies. Anna's dream is to open her own large animal dental practice and promote animal welfare. When she’s not studying, Anna enjoys horseriding, writing music, and is a proud Gaeilgeoir with a strong grá for her home in the West of Ireland.
Becky Mahon - Sponsored by Eyre Square Shopping Centre
Becky, 25, hails from the village of Peterswell. She teaches Maths and Irish at Gort Community School, and has recently qualified as an Irish dancing teacher. Passionate about Irish culture, she is dedicated to making language and dance accessible to all. With fantastic local support Becky has raised significant funds for charities close to her heart, and remains involved with St. Thomas' GAA. Known for her craic and good humour, Becky connects with people of all ages, forming many lasting friendships. Becky is delighted to be sponsored by Eyre Square Shopping Centre, whose staff and patrons have played an important role in her life in recent years.
Ciara Murphy - Representing the Miscarriage Association of Ireland (MAI )
Ciara Murphy is a dedicated educator; with a Level 6 SNA qualification, a Level 9 Postgraduate Degree in Education and is currently completing her Masters in Special Educational Needs and Inclusion. Following a personal loss in 2024, Ciara turned to poetry to process her experience; even writing a special poem for the nurse who supported her, which she later framed as a gift. She has contributed to the MAI newsletter and hopes to publish a poetry collection, with proceeds going to the Miscarriage Association. Ciara is passionate about helping people through their loss and wants to help others feel safe sharing.
Chloe Walsh – Sponsored by Álainn
Chloe Walsh, 22, is currently finishing her Masters degree in Marketing at NUIG . Chloe manages all-things social media marketing for a farm-machinery company; a role that perfectly reflects her, having come from a farming background herself. With an outgoing and bubbly personality, Chloe loves all things travel, fashion and spending quality time with her friends. Whether she’s discovering new destinations or enjoying time closer to home, she brings a positive and down to earth energy to everything she does. Proud to be a Galway girl, Chloe is excited for the experience ahead, and all the opportunities it may bring.
Ciara Gannon — Sponsored by Amy Madden Hair, Athenry
Ciara is a 21-year-old Galway native, from the rural parish of Abbeyknockmoy. After graduating from NUIG last year, with a History Degree; she took an unexpected turn into the world of car sales at Connolly’s Mercedes-Benz, Galway. While it might not have been the original plan, her love of cars makes it a pretty good fit. When she’s not in the showroom, you will likely find Ciara on a dance floor somewhere around the country; jiving, line-dancing, waltzing…you name it. She volunteers with ALONE, a befriending charity supporting older people across Ireland.
Ellie Worcester - Sponsored by Martin Fahy Menswear
Ellie is a passionate preschool teacher and team leader in a Reggio Emilia–inspired school in Donabate, Dublin, with a BA in Early Childhood Care and Education. Originally from Hawaii, she has journeyed from one island to another, bringing warmth and creativity to all she does. She cares deeply about community and mental health, with the wellbeing of children at the heart of her work. Ellie has taught in Belgium and England, and hopes to teach more abroad. She enjoys singing, dancing, travelling, hiking, and spending time with friends and family. Ellie is delighted and proud to be sponsored by Martin Fahy Menswear.
Emma Connolly Sponsored by Killimor Development Society, O’Meara’s Supervalu, Portumna & East Galway Rose
Emma Connolly, 20, is sponsored by O’Meara’s SuperValu Portumna, where she works part-time. She is studying Fashion Management, and aspires to build a career in the fashion industry. Her passion for fashion began when she competed in the Junk Kouture World Final in 2022 in Abu Dhabi. Now, in a full-circle moment, Emma works backstage at the competition. In 2025 Emma travelled to Africa, where she volunteered to build a school for children with the Ray of Sunshine Foundation. A ballet dancer of 16 years, Emma loves performing on stage. Above all, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.
Isabel Fleet - Sponsored by Coleman Bros. Galway
Isabel Fleet is a 20-year-old from Athenry, currently studying Mental Health Nursing at the University of Galway, where she is enjoying her course, and developing a passion for supporting others. She is proudly sponsored by her cousin’s construction company, continuing a special family connection that also saw her cousin sponsor her for her Confirmation. Isabel is an active sportsperson; playing camogie with Athenry and celebrating an All-Ireland victory this year. She also plays Gaelic football, and loves spending time jiving with her brother, embracing music, movement, and community in everything she does. She values friendship, resilience, and representing her community with pride.
Isabelle Ní Ruadháin - Representing Community Connect
Representing Community Connect, Isabelle, 26, is a proud Athenry native, and devoted mum to her four-year-old son, who keeps her busy and smiling in equal measure. Having just completed her thesis, she is finishing her final year at university and looks forward to life as a múinteoir. Full of warmth and grá, Isabelle loves painting, baking and staying active, whether outdoors or in the gym. Passionate about the Irish language, community and family, she never misses a chance to share her cúpla focal and bring people together.
Jemma Garvey - Sponsored by 3Dental Galway
Jemma Garvey, a 26 year old dental nurse from Newcastle in Galway, is proudly sponsored by 3Dental Galway. She is preparing to pursue a future in maxillofacial nursing. Known for her kindness, reliability and resilience, Jemma is always ready to help others, and bring comfort wherever she goes. Outside her ambitions, she loves walks on the prom, a good night out, and enjoying a Hugo spritz with friends. Deeply committed to personal growth, she continually works on bettering herself so she can inspire confidence, and share a smile with everyone she meets daily, while staying grounded, generous, optimistic and determined through every challenge and opportunity ahead.
Jodie Kenny - Sponsored by Gannon’s, Clifden
Jodie Kenny is a 23-year-old primary school teacher from Oughterard. Dedicated to her work, she is passionate about nurturing her pupils’ confidence and wellbeing. She hopes to further her studies to become an Educational Psychologist to support children in overcoming barriers to their learning. Jodie grew up playing Gaelic football and enjoys coaching her school’s team. She has also acted as a brand ambassador for a fundraising initiative which raised over €1 million for Breast Cancer Ireland, a cause very close to her heart. In her spare time, she enjoys staying active, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
Kate Fahey - Sponsored by JLC Crane Ltd.
Kate Fahey, 22, is from Kilkerrin, and works as a tower crane operator on the ATU Galway campus, helping build a new engineering facility. She is passionate about encouraging others into construction, and sharing pathways into the industry. Outside of work, Kate enjoys jiving and line-dancing, and loves to travel. She teaches dance classes in her local community, and recently travelled to Nashville, where she honed her line-dancing skills. Kate co-organises the Glenamaddy Tractor and Truck Run; raising funds for various charities. She also assists on her family farm, and is completing her Green Cert.
Katie Joyce - Sponsored by Feature Fireplaces
Katie Joyce, is a 27 year-old from Clarinbridge, with a strong passion for advocacy and personal growth. Graduated with an international degree in French and Psychology, spending one year in France to develop the language. After her studies, Katie worked as counselling administrator; a role she found rewarding and eye-opening. Katie now faces challenges finding employment due to her disabilities; visual impairment and co-ordination and stability issues, following cancer. She actively raises awareness for those with disabilities. Katie loves art, and attends classes with Cancer Care West, especially since the passing of her mother, who is the driving force behind her participation in the Rose.
Lauren Hession - Sponsored by NGM Surveying
Lauren Hession, 23, is from Turloughmore, and works as a Performance Nutritionist. She is dedicated to helping people enhance their wellbeing and take better care of themselves through practical, everyday habits that make a genuine difference to how they feel. Lauren has a strong background in set dancing and has been involved in music from a young age, enjoying both piano and singing. In her spare time, you’ll find her running, at the gym, exploring new recipes, on a flight to somewhere new, or spending time with family and friends.
Lorna Stephens - Representing Cancer Care West
A proud Galway woman from Kilcolgan, Lorna Stephens, 23, is a final year Bachelor of Education student in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick. She also works part-time in the Park House Hotel. Lorna spent time volunteering in Uganda, Africa last year, which was one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. She volunteers with Down Syndrome, Limerick, and with Am Páistí in her local community. She is proudly representing Cancer Care West. Lorna is passionate about teaching, travelling and helping others. She hopes to teach both in Ireland and abroad. Lorna enjoys baking, music, fashion, travelling and is never far from a good cup of coffee.
Maria Colohan - Sponsored by Ollie Colohan and Sons Ltd.
Maria Colohan, 24, from Ahascragh, Ballinasloe, is a graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin with a Master’s degree in Pharmacy. As a newly qualified pharmacist; health and wellbeing are of paramount importance to her. She enjoys reformer pilates, walking and going to the gym. Maria is an ambitious, diligent and caring individual. Maria has a keen interest in Irish traditional music. She plays the button accordion and likes to sing. Maria has participated in numerous musicals and dramas over the years.She has a love for travel, having explored several European cities to date and more to follow.
Mary McHale - Representing ADHD Ireland.
Mary, 28, is a digital marketing executive for Electric Picnic, with proud family roots in Caltra, Galway. She is passionate about supporting local initiatives that raise funds for mental health and social causes, including the Ballina Sensory Park. Mary enjoys running with her mum and friends, sports, pilates & coffee mornings, dancing and attending concerts. She recently completed the NYC Half Marathon in honour of her mum’s 60th birthday. A keen traveller, Mary has briefly lived in the US and Australia, and has explored 20 other countries. A fun fact—she once appeared in an award-winning Irish film. She is proud to be representing ADHD Ireland.
Orla MacConnell - Sponsored by Emily Jean Fashion Accessories
Orla Mac Connell is from the beautiful village of Spiddal, Connemara. She is sponsored by Emily Jean Fashion Accessories. Orla is currently at Trinity College Dublin studying English Literature and Art History. Artistic expression is central to Orla’s life. From illustration to fashion styling, she is a driven creative. She is a passionate advocate for inclusion and accessibility as both of her younger sisters have significant disabilities. When home from college, she works on reception at her mother's GP practice. Orla and her mum are known to be massive Swifties, often spotted together at ‘Swiftogeddon’ in the Róisín Dubh singing their hearts out.
Rachel Stafford – Sponsored by Fearless Fitness
Rachel, 26, from Mayo, is the proud owner of Galway-based, female-only gym, Fearless Fitness. Having begun her own weight loss journey without a fitness background, Rachel understands how intimidating it can be to start and is passionate about inspiring women to take that first step to becoming stronger and healthier. Rachel promotes a balanced, sustainable and positive approach to health and fitness. In her free time, Rachel enjoys training, trying new coffee spots, and spending time with family and friends. Rachel is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment. She is dedicated to helping others realise their potential; encouraging every woman to feel “fearless”.
Ruth Donohue - Sponsored by Pure Pharmacy, Salthill & Vibrant Food Ltd.
Ruth Donohue hails from Duniry, Loughrea. She is a dedicated Pharmacy Technician and Phlebotomist with Pure Pharmacy Salthill. She loves working with her patients and colleagues. Ruth is passionate about healthcare and helping others. Ruth has a good sense of humour and a positive attitude. She believes in providing a welcoming atmosphere for both colleagues and customers. When she is not working in Salthill, she loves nothing more than to be out farming, catching up with friends and family, and spending time with both her grannies, who she is blessed to have in her life.
Sorcha Magee - Sponsored by Mackan Contracts Ltd.
A proud Galway woman, Sorcha Magee, 24, is currently studying childcare, while working in a Crèche, where she spends her days keeping up with energetic little ones, and somehow still loving every minute of it. She is proudly sponsored by her brother’s Agri-Contracting business, so she is well used to hard work. In her spare time, she enjoys the gym (when she can find the motivation ), focusing on self-care, and spending time with family and friends. She loves trying new things, having a laugh and making the most of life, one busy day at a time.
