On Wednesday 25th June, Stepping Stones NI hosted a heartwarming celebration at Lagan Valley Island, celebrating the incredible achievements of trainees and participants across Stepping Stones NI.

The aptly named Room Full of Stars event brought together families, staff, local dignitaries, and partner organisations to recognise the progress and accomplishments of individuals supported through our Youth Service and six social enterprises: Pink Elephant Cards, Picture Framing, Navigation House, 2nd Avenue, The Courtyard Café and The Gatelodge Café.

Special guests in attendance included Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Alderman Amanda Grehan and MP Sorcha Eastwood, who each shared their admiration for the transformative work being done by Stepping Stones NI and offered messages of continued support.

Speaking at the event, Deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly praised the dedication of the trainees and staff alike:

“I am pleased to get the chance to be here to celebrate with you all. I know that you’ve all worked really hard and today is an example and a demonstration of all of your hard work, so you really deserve it.”

The day was full of extra special touches. We were lucky to have BBC’s Cate Conway as our MC, who kept the smiles going all day. One of the highlights was a live performance from our Navigation House trainee Pauline Connell, who sang beautifully and made the whole room emotional. A powerful poem was also read out, capturing just how much Stepping Stones NI means to everyone involved. And in case that wasn’t enough, we had a surprise visit from Taylor Swift herself (well, almost!).

Stepping Stones NI extends a heartfelt thanks to all our valued partners, including Henderson Group, Danske Bank, G4S, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, EE, Habitat Restore Lisburn, Koda’s, and the many councillors and Board members who took time to attend.

Our CEO Paula Jennings summed up the event perfectly:

“Powerful, impactful, emotional  and so wonderfully joyful.”

As the day came to a close, it was clear that this really was a Room Full of Stars and we couldn’t be prouder of every single person who made it shine so brightly.