"We Have Never Felt So Happy Anywhere" Ballon In Carlow Has It All

This little gem in the heart of Carlow is brimming with energy and a diverse mix of residents who make it a truly special place. Alison meets Máire in Siopa Glas, an award winning community thrift shop whose motto is “Sustainability is a lifestyle” and they tell us about their important link to the Ukrainian community.  Fadi Almasri tells us his truly inspiring story from arriving as a Syrian refugee in 2014 to opening the town’s first pharmacy. John Paul Payne from Carlow Pride Festival chats in the local café about his journey to bring Carlow their first ever pride parade. Founded in 2019, it made history attracting 3,500 attendees! And finally local photographer Rachel Fennelly tells us how community support was instrumental as she set up her small business and settled here with her young family.Join Today FM's Alison Curtis as she travels around Ireland to uncover the diverse, interesting and unique voices that make up Ireland today and discover the heart and soul of rural Ireland. This project is co-funded by Coimisiún na Meán under the Sound and Vision Scheme.