At East Belfast Enterprise, we love celebrating the achievements of our team and tenants, and today we’re shining a spotlight on one of our own. Sarah Magennis, our Senior Receptionist, has recently graduated with a Master of Science with commendation – an incredible accomplishment achieved alongside becoming a new mum to her baby son, Freddie.
Reflecting on her graduation day, Sarah shared:
“On my graduation day I was filled with nerves, but I was also excited and slightly relieved that 10 years of study were finally over! It was such a joyous day of celebration, and it was lovely to enjoy the occasion with my family, partner Carl, and our son Freddie, who was born in December last year.”
A Journey of Determination and Passion
Sarah’s academic journey began while she was still at school, where she discovered a passion for event management while assisting as a festival planner. From there, she pursued Travel and Tourism at Northern Regional College, earning three distinctions despite discovering during her course that she was dyslexic.
Her career and education progressed hand-in-hand, from working as a hotel receptionist to earning a degree in International Hospitality and Event Management at Ulster University, and later completing a Level 3 qualification in Leadership and Management.
Encouraged by her family, Sarah decided to go one step further and embarked on a Masters in International Event Management on a part-time basis, culminating in her recent graduation.
“Although I’m relieved to be closing the books, I’ve always been encouraged on my educational journey by my family. They suggested I enrol for my Masters, and I’m so proud to have achieved it,”
Balancing Motherhood and a Thriving Role at East Belfast Enterprise
After the birth of her son Freddie in December 2024, Sarah made the most of her maternity leave but was also excited to return to her role at East Belfast Enterprise.
“I adore my new life as a mother and made the most of my maternity leave with Freddie. I am also glad to be back at work as the role is varied and rewarding. As well as the crucial administrative side of my job, I get to plan events for East Belfast Enterprise tenants and the local community.”
Sarah’s role is multi-faceted, combining administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, issuing invoices, and taking payments with the more personal side of supporting East Belfast Enterprise’s tenants.
“One moment I’ll be scheduling appointments, and the next I’ll be greeting a new tenant, learning about their business, and hearing stories of their entrepreneurial journey. We’re a small team at East Belfast Enterprise, and it really feels like we’re just a family.”
Life Beyond the Office
Sarah’s passion for life doesn’t stop at work. A former member of Glenarm Rowing Club, she competed in five All-Ireland Coastal Rowing competitions before taking her love of rowing to university in London. These days, Sarah enjoys going to the cinema, attending concerts, and travelling across Europe whenever she can.
Discover East Belfast Enterprise
We’re incredibly proud of Sarah and her dedication, both to her personal goals and her role at East Belfast Enterprise. She’s a perfect example of the resilience and determination we value here.
If you’d like to learn more about East Belfast Enterprise, opportunities to rent workspaces and offices, or our business start-up programmes contact our team here.
