By Róise Collins
THE search for representatives for the 58th Mary from Dungloe International Arts Festival is in full swing, with selection events taking place across the country and overseas.
Festival organisers are currently seeking a Dublin Mary, UAE Mary, Connacht Mary, and the first-ever Ulster Mary.
In recent weeks, Kate Tobin, with strong connections to Falcarragh, was selected as this year’s London Mary, while Taragh Brady was chosen as the Midlands Mary in a selection convention held in Cavan.
Closer to home, Annagry woman Maria O’Donnell is thrilled to represent her second home in Scotland, following her selection as the Edinburgh Mary.
“I moved to Scotland for university, and I’ve fallen in love with it ever since,” Maria told the Donegal News.
“Scotland has become my second home, and I take pride in representing Edinburgh. The connection between Ireland and Scotland has been strong for many years, with many Irish people emigrating to Scotland for education or work.”
Maria’s connection to Scotland is particularly special.
“My granny moved to Edinburgh to work when she was just 18 years old, and I love hearing her stories about her adventures here,” she shared.
Maria has a very close relationship with her granny, who she considers her best friend.
“Whenever I return to Ireland, my granny’s house is always the first place I visit.”
Raised in Annagry, Maria attended Scoil Naomh Dúigh before moving on to Rosses Community School. After finishing school, she studied Health Service Skills at Errigal College, leading her to work in a local nursing home where she developed a passion for care.
Annagry woman Maria O’Donnell who has been selected as the Edinburgh Mary in the upcoming Mary from Dungloe International Arts Festival.
Maria then moved to Scotland, which she described as a big step. There, she studied nursing at the University of Stirling. Today, Maria works as an acute care nurse in an acute assessment unit.
“I get to make a difference in people’s lives every day. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I’m grateful for the journey that led me here,” she said.
Maria has many fond memories of the Mary from Dungloe Festival, which she has attended every year.
“It was always a highlight for me. It’s a time to celebrate all the wonderful traits of the local area from culture to the arts, to the people and the community spirit of those who give their time so willingly to run the festival.”
Maria, pictured right, is especially excited to meet the other Marys. She was delighted to meet her fellow Scottish Mary, The Glasgow Mary, at a recent event in Edinburgh. She’s also eager to return home and explore more of Donegal.
“Donegal is packed with hidden gems, and there’s always something new to discover,” she said.
Maria expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her since her selection.
“I’m thankful for the support from my family back home in Donegal, my sponsors at the Edinburgh Emerald Irish Social Group, and everyone who has shown me support since being chosen as the Edinburgh Mary. I hope to make you all proud in the months ahead.”
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