Budding entrepreneurs take the spotlight at inaugural Causeway Youth Market

Young entrepreneurs from across Causeway Coast and Glens came together in Coleraine town centre on Saturday to showcase their products at Council’s inaugural youth market.

The Causeway Young Traders Market, the first of its kind, was specifically designed to promote the young creative and artisan talents displayed across the Borough.

Twenty-four young traders attended the event at The Diamond, selling products ranging from candles to clothing.  

The Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Margaret-Anne McKillop, said: “I was very proud to see the budding talents on display from people in this area.

“The event was hugely successful, with dozens of young traders showcasing various wonderful products. I witnessed a lot of great potential from these young people, which I am certain will continue to develop in years to come.”

Seven traders at the Causeway Youth Market have been selected by an independent panel to showcase their products at the Young Traders Regional Final, which will be held at St George’s Market, Belfast, on June 8th and 9th.

Ross Christie of Halfpenny Treasures was chosen as the overall winner of the Causeway heat of the competition, while the six commended were as follows:

Chala Chai – Andrew McGuire
Component Crafts – Tim Law
Mini stitcher – Becky Gibson
The Giants Glow – Philip Patterson
Caitlin McCraken Art – Caitlin McCracken
Crafty Little One - Shannon McGorrey

Ross said, “I am so grateful to have won first place at the competition. It was a busy location with many talented fellow artisans.

“I now look forward to progressing in the competition and displaying my metal creations at St George’s Market, Belfast.”

Following the success of this inaugural youth market, Council hopes to run similar events to continue supporting the next generation of artisans and creatives in the Borough.