Belfast's MayWe Team Wins Award for Making 2 Royal Avenue an Inclusive Hub

MayWe, a Belfast-based company focused on arts and cultural management, has proudly received an 'Embrace an Inclusive Spirit Award' for their exceptional work at 2 Royal Avenue. This city centre venue, a popular cultural hub, is celebrated for its welcoming environment that truly embraces all visitors.

The 'Embrace the Inclusive Spirit Awards' highlight organisations that demonstrate compassion, care, and extra effort to make venues and programmes accessible to everyone. MayWe was the popular winner in the 'Going the Extra Mile' category, chosen from 270 impressive entrants, specifically commended for its incredibly welcoming, visitor-centred approach that has significantly improved access for all.

Lois Kennedy, Joint Managing Director of MayWe, expressed her delight at the recognition. "I am absolutely delighted that our small but mighty, hard-working team have been honoured with this award," she said. "We think 2 Royal Avenue is a truly special place, which opens up the city centre for so many, and we want to thank everyone who voted for us."

She particularly praised Venue & Events Manager Eimear and her team for consistently going 'the extra mile' every day. Kennedy added, "2 Royal Avenue is often referred to as 'Belfast's sitting room' and how lovely it is to know anyone coming in will be in such safe hands. This award is a tribute to the compassion, care and effort they put in every day to make 2RA welcoming and inclusive for everybody who passes through its doors."

Since opening in 2021, 2 Royal Avenue, affectionately known as '2RA,' has become a vital community hub. Operating as a free public space, it attracts over 30,000 visitors each month and hosts a diverse range of activities, including community groups, arts events, workshops, job fairs, and exhibitions. It truly acts as a social lifeline for people of all ages from across Belfast and beyond, including many from our North Belfast communities.

The venue boasts a number of much-loved features designed for everyone to enjoy, such as a kid’s cosy area, a library corner, a homework station, and even a unique 'sensory dome.' And for those with a musical flair, there’s a public access grand piano!

2 Royal Avenue is open daily from 10am to 6pm. For more information about this award-winning, inclusive space, you can visit www.maywe.co.uk/2RA. MayWe’s team truly appreciates the ongoing community support and looks forward to welcoming even more visitors to this fantastic city centre asset.