Making Bangor Great Again: Winning the Best Creative Initiative at the Bangor Business Awards 2024

I’m beyond thrilled to share that Making Bangor Great Again has been honored with the Best Creative Initiative award at the Bangor Business Awards 2024! It’s not every day you get recognized for a project that’s as much a personal mission as it is a community endeavor, so this award truly feels like a win for everyone involved—especially those who’ve supported the murals and embraced the vision.

Though I was all set to give a speech (apparently, the folks at the awards ceremony weren’t keen on handing me a microphone!), I thought I’d share my heartfelt thanks here instead. Here’s the short version of what I’d have said—trust me, it would’ve been a solid 10-minute ramble otherwise!

1. Hamilton Morris Waugh – The First Believers 🚀

Huge thanks to Hamilton Morris Waugh for jumping on board as the very first supporters of this creative mission. You trusted the vision and gave it wings by letting me transform your building into something Bangor can be proud of. The reaction has been incredible—people still snap photos of that building every day! It’s a testament to what’s possible when we give our surroundings new life through art.

2. Michael Rushe and Independent Property Estates – Going Bold with Ballymena’s Finest! 😂

Another big thanks to Michael Rushe at Independent Property Estates for believing in the project and embracing some big ideas. You had choices, from Muhammad Ali to local heroes, and we landed on an icon—Liam Neeson! Yes, the Ballymena-born legend in Bangor stirred up some laughs, but the impact was undeniable. The mural became an attraction for both locals and visitors, and the response was amazing. From shoutouts in The Telegraph to features in Belfast Live, U105, and even the NYC Irish Post, we made waves far beyond our wee town.

3. You – The People of Bangor – The Real Champions 🔥

Last but absolutely not least, a massive thank you to the people of Bangor. Your support has been the heartbeat of this initiative, and every like, share, and photo has helped amplify our message: Bangor has untapped potential and deserves to be celebrated. Together, we’re showing everyone that Bangor’s creative spirit is alive and kicking!

And a Personal Shoutout: My Better Half, LA ❤️

I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank my wonderful partner, LA, who has been my rock. Those who know me know I’m a bit of a handful, but she’s stuck by my side through every idea and every brushstroke. Thank you, LA—you’re as much a part of this project as I am!

So here’s to everyone who’s been a part of Making Bangor Great Again! Let’s keep pushing forward, keep creating, and keep showing the world that Bangor’s story is just beginning.