Newry pair named in Keep NI Beautiful’s 30 Under 30

Nicole May Hempkin and Gavin McParland from Newry have been named in this year’s prestigious 30 Under 30 programmeNicole May Hempkin and Gavin McParland from Newry have been named in this year’s prestigious 30 Under 30 programme
Nicole May Hempkin and Gavin McParland from Newry have been named in this year’s prestigious 30 Under 30 programme
Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful has announced the latest cohort for its 30 Under 30 Climate Change-Makers programme – and two of them are from the Newry area.​

​The initiative continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of climate leaders across Northern Ireland, and this year, two outstanding young individuals from Newry have been selected to take part.

These local climate champions will join an inspiring group of young people from across the region, each committed to making a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change.

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The two members from the Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council area are Nicole May Hempkin and Gavin McParland.

Nicole, from the Upper Damolly area of the city, is an Environmental Assistant with Queen’s University Belfast.

Her role focuses on nurturing a deep connection between students and the natural world, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to live sustainably.

She also works to raise awareness about critical environmental issues and develop initiatives that not only promote sustainability but contribute positively to the overall student experience.

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Nicole shared, “I’m over the moon to be included as one of this year’s 30 Under 30 Climate Change-Makers. For years I’ve been deeply concerned about the climate crisis and what the future could look like if serious steps aren’t taken to ensure we meet our targets.”

Meanwhile Glenn man Gavin is currently studying MSc Energy storage at Ulster University.

His line of work is in battery energy storage with Continu, where they design and specify battery storage units to help commercial and industrial sites optimise their energy generating assets and lower their energy costs.

Gavin said, “I’m delighted to have been given such an incredible opportunity to be directly involved in the conversation, to learn valuable insights from world-class leaders, and to work with my classmates to help find solutions.”

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The 30 Under 30 programme offers a unique platform for young people to develop leadership skills and become advocates for environmental change. Participants will take part in workshops covering key topics, such as biodiversity, health, and wellbeing, with opportunities to learn from influential leaders.

Jenna Potter, 30 Under 30 Programme Manager, said, “With the ambitious targets set out in the 2022 Climate Change Act, including achieving net zero emissions by 2050, there is no time to sit back on our commitments.

"The 30 Under 30 programme equips young people with the skills and knowledge they need to help meet these targets and drive real change.

“The participants in our third year are highly engaged, conscientious, and deeply aware of the urgency of the climate crisis.

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"Nicole and Gavin are already taking action to address the challenges we face.

"This year’s programme will not only deepen their understanding but also foster collaboration, idea exchange, and the creation of practical strategies to tackle the pressing climate issues of our time.

"We’re excited for the months ahead as these inspiring young leaders gain the skills and confidence needed to create lasting change in their communities and beyond.”

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