Award-winning writer Lisa McGee and acclaimed actors Róisín Gallagher and Emmett J. Scanlan have said resilience, trusted relationships and investing in future talent are essential to sustaining Northern Ireland’s growing global reputation in screen and media.
That was the message delivered to an audience of more than 400 business leaders at the annual Belfast Chamber President’s Lunch, hosted in partnership with Belfast City Airport, with Openreach as supporting partner.
Held at Crowne Plaza Belfast, the event featured a fireside chat conducted by broadcaster Lynette Fay under the theme of ‘Celebrating Screen and Media’. The discussion explored how entrepreneurial thinking, resilience and leadership are critical not only to business growth, but also in nurturing future talent and building sustainable pipelines for long-term success.
READ MORE: Exact Group Achieves Cyber Essentials Plus Certification
Drawing on their own personal and professional experiences, the speakers reflected on the realities of working in the creative industries, from overcoming imposter syndrome and dealing with rejection, to the importance of discipline, trusted relationships and resilience.
Darragh McCarthy, President of Belfast Chamber, said:
“Today’s discussion highlighted the enormous strength of Northern Ireland’s creative industries and the entrepreneurial mindset that underpins success across every sector.
“The experiences shared by Lisa, Róisín and Emmett demonstrated that resilience, leadership and investing in future talent are universal themes, whether in business, media or the arts.
“As Belfast continues to grow its international reputation as a centre for innovation and creativity, supporting the pipelines, partnerships and opportunities that allow local talent to thrive on a global stage will be key.”
Matthew Hall, CEO of Belfast City Airport, commented:
“Belfast Chamber’s President’s Lunch highlighted not only the strength of our business community, but the power of storytelling in shaping how Belfast is seen on the global stage. Ours is a city with a compelling story to tell - one of resilience, ambition and continued transformation - and events such as this help bring that narrative to life.
“As Belfast City Airport continues to connect people, businesses, and opportunities, we are proud to support initiatives that champion Belfast’s future potential. We look forward to building on our partnership with Belfast Chamber to ensure the city remains a dynamic, competitive, and globally connected place to do business.”
Lisa McGee, award-winning writer, said:
“It was fantastic to be part of the conversation and to reflect on the journey of building a career in the creative industries.
“There is incredible talent in Northern Ireland, and it is important that we continue creating opportunities, encouraging ambition and supporting the next generation of creatives to believe in their abilities and pursue their goals.”
Lisa, creator of Derry Girls and writer of How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, has emerged as one of Northern Ireland’s most influential storytellers, with her work resonating with audiences around the world.
Róisín, meanwhile, is known for her standout performances in The Lovers and How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, while Emmett’s acclaimed television and film credits include MobLand, Kin, Peaky Blinders and How to Get to Heaven from Belfast.
Róisín Gallagher commented:
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned throughout my career is the importance of resilience. There are always setbacks and moments of self-doubt, but trusting yourself, continuing to learn and being prepared to keep going are what ultimately help you grow.
“I think that’s something people across every industry can relate to, because resilience and adaptability are essential whether you’re building a career, a business or a team.”
READ MORE: Loganair signs 15-year Sustainable Aviation Fuel offtake agreement with ClimaHtech Green Flight
Emmett J. Scanlan added:
“I’m very proud of my Belfast roots and the people and relationships that shaped me early on.
“Working alongside talents such as Lisa and Róisín has reinforced the power of authentic storytelling and demonstrated the impact Northern Ireland’s creative community can have on a global stage.
“Belfast and Northern Ireland consistently showcase their gorgeous fighting Irish spirit by effortlessly standing shoulder to shoulder with the best this creative industry has to offer, and that’s something we should continue to celebrate, support and encourage for the next generation.”
For further details about the Belfast Chamber President’s Lunch please visit www.belfastchamber.com
Read the Spring 2026 edition free online →
Stay connected with NI's tech community:
