Rose of Tralee 2025: Meet the four NI women competing for title

The International Festival returns to Kerry from August 15 to 19

Meet the four NI women competing for the 2025 Rose of Tralee title.

The International Festival returns to Co Kerry from Friday to Tuesday, August 15 to 19, where 32 Roses will take to the stage.

The festival comprises the Rose of Tralee selection, family carnivals, fashion show and live concerts. The town’s streets are “transformed into a feast of parades, music, circus, funfair, markets and traditional Irish entertainment”.

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Representing Armagh is 26-year-old primary school teacher Erin McCormac, and representing Down is 21-year-old student Anna Mulholland.

26-year-old accountant Caoimhe Connolly is this year’s Fermanagh Rose, and PE teacher Clóideach Donaghy is the 2025 Tyrone Rose.

Here is all about Erin, Anna, Caoimhe, and Clóideach:

Armagh Rose – Erin McCormac

“Hello! My name is Erin McCormac and I am a 26-year-old Primary School Teacher from the Orchard County, Armagh. I am passionate about education, music and motherhood. I am a proud mummy to my little boy, Jonah, who just turned 1 and has brought me a new sense of purpose and desire to make my community an even better one.

“As a teacher I am committed to nurturing the next generation as I believe that education is key and I strive to empower young people to pursue their goals and make a positive impact in their communities. In my free time I enjoy attending local musical theatre groups and performing on stage.

“Music is a huge part of both mine and my families lives, allowing us to connect with others and raise money for charity events over the years. I am delighted to have been chosen to represent Armagh this year and I cannot wait to make incredible memories with my fellow rose sisters and my own family too. Ard Mhacha Abu!”

Down Rose – Anna Mulholland

“My name is Anna, I’m 21 years old and hail from a tiny village called Ballyholland, on the outskirts of Newry, in the heart of the Mourne County. Growing up in a tight-knit community where GAA is the bond that holds us all together, my life has always revolved around sport.

“I play Camogie, Gaelic football and netball for my club, and have worn the Down jersey at both underage and senior level. I’m studying primary school teaching at St Mary’s University College in Belfast, where I’ve made lifelong friends, been a member of the Students’ Union, and continued my love for sport.

“As the eldest of five, working with children has always come naturally, and I’m proud to be very involved in my community- coaching young players and working in the local community centre. Having grown up watching the Rose of Tralee, I’m incredibly honoured to represent the Mourne County in 2025 and share a piece of our vibrant heritage. The support I have received has been overwhelming, and I hope to do An Dún proud in Tralee!”

Fermanagh Rose – Caoimhe Connolly

“Hi everyone! My name is Caoimhe. I’m 26 years old and I’m from Roslea – a small village in the East of Fermanagh. I’m so proud to be the Fermanagh Rose and I’m keen to show the world my home – its rich history, natural surroundings and warm community. I’m a Chartered Accountant, and I’ve spent the majority of my career specialising in Tax.

“I’ve recently moved into the world of investment fund accounting as I enjoy taking on new challenges and learning more about the finance world. After spending 4 years in Liverpool, I graduated with a degree in Accounting and Finance and began to build an online educational Instagram page called the Tax Woman.

“I’m passionate about educating people on money management, tax, property and investments. I’m a serial hobbyist. I have tried it all. I’m a singer and keen musician, a qualified beekeeper, a qualified nail technician, and I help out on the family farm. I love travelling and I have been to all corners of the world including the USA, China, Canada and the Caribbean.”

Tyrone Rose – Clóideach Donaghy

“Hello everyone, I’m Clóideach Donaghy, from the parish of Errigal Ciaran in County Tyrone. Whether it’s a scenic walk or a day packed with adventure, adrenaline, or GAA, Tyrone has it all! I’m a secondary PE teacher with a passion for sports—especially rugby—and I never shy away from trying something new.

“Whether its charity wrestling or making coffee, I’m always up for a challenge (and a good laugh). I love connecting with people from all walks of life and take pride in supporting friends, family, and community—bringing people together, sharing stories, and lifting spirits through genuine moments of joy and laughter. This incredible opportunity to travel Ireland, meet inspiring individuals, and make friends feels like a dream come true.

“I aim to spread positivity and lead by example—with ambition, hard work, and plenty of care to go around, leaving a trail of smiles and warm memories wherever I go. Here’s to creating moments that matter, giving back, and celebrating the beautiful people and communities we are lucky to call home.”

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