There was something truly special in the air as the 2025 Eastside Awards in association with Belfast City Airport celebrated their landmark tenth anniversary.
Held in the iconic setting of Titanic Belfast, over 450 people gathered to celebrate the people, organisations and businesses whose commitment, kindness and innovation continue to shape East Belfast. And what a celebration it was.
For ten years, the Eastside Awards have shone a spotlight on excellence across arts, business, culture, health, tourism, wellbeing and community life – and this year was no exception.
A Moment That Touched the Room
The most emotional moment of the evening came with the presentation of the Outstanding Contribution Award sponsored by East Belfast Enterprise. Presented to Dot Blackburn, a Cregagh Estate woman whose lifelong and often unseen acts of generosity have transformed countless lives across Belfast. A devoted community champion for over four decades, Dot’s ‘TeamDot’ voluntary work has supported families facing serious illness and crisis with charity fundraising events, donations of food, toys, household items and clothes, and provides unwavering compassion to those who need it most. Her story is one of quiet resilience, boundless kindness and a legacy built not on recognition, but on love.
Jonathan McAlpin, Chair of the Eastside Awards Committee, said:
“Reaching our tenth year is an incredibly proud moment for the Eastside Awards. Standing in Titanic Belfast and welcoming over 450 people to celebrate the best of East Belfast is what has made 10 years of the Eastside Awards so special. They are rooted in community, our community.
Michelle Hatfield, Chief People and Marketing Officer at Belfast City Airport, said:
“Being part of the Eastside Awards since its inception is a real honour for Belfast City Airport, particularly as we mark its 10th anniversary.
Looking Ahead: The Eastside Bursary
Looking to the future, the Eastside Awards also announced the launch of a new Eastside Bursary, set to open in spring 2026, designed to support the next generation of local talent.
Jonathan McAlpin added: “As we look beyond our tenth anniversary, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be launching a bursary which will provide practical financial assistance and mentoring opportunities for young people seeking to develop skills, training or education pathways, ensuring the legacy of the awards extends well beyond the stage.”
In the spirit of the Eastside Awards, each finalist received two complimentary tickets to the awards ceremony and an invitation to the Finalists VIP Drinks Reception, which was sponsored by Catalyst.
Presented by broadcaster Tara Mills, guests were treated to entertainment sponsored by Ballyhackamore Credit Union which included a performance by Grosvenor Grammar School String Quartet; Piper Mark Smith; 24th Belfast Company, The Boys Brigade; Rock Choir and String Ninjas.
