AN INTRO FROM THE CHIEF

OUT&ACTIVE

I’ve shared a little more about that journey on page 21, but I’ll say here how grateful I am to be part of something that continues to grow, evolve, and proudly represent our community.

This issue is a true celebration of that. We’ve packed the pages with some incredible names from global icons like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Damiano David, to closer-to-home stars including Elliott James, Jamie Duffy, and Joe McFadden. Each brings something unique, inspiring, or downright entertaining.

I also take you with me on a little adventure to Edinburgh, where I spent 10 days performing at the Fringe Festival, a brilliant, challenging, and unforgettable experience.

Of course, GNI MAG has always balanced fun with the important conversations we need to have. Inside you’ll find features tackling serious issues such as defending Portia’s Drag Storytime, Safe Sex, and the ramifications of the UK Supreme Court ruling, which has fuelled waves of hate, targeted attacks, and misinformation. These are heavy topics, but they’re crucial to address, and I’m proud that we can give them space here.

On the lighter side, there’s plenty of joy to be found. We celebrate Shane & Gerard’s beautiful wedding at the Lord Bagenal Hotel, spotlight local gems like Belfast Frontrunners, Bear World, and comedy duo Broken Compass, and of course keep you up to date with our ten brilliant columnists, covering everything from hair, skincare, makeup, and interiors to music, travel, food, sport, and wellbeing.

This milestone issue has something for everyone, whether you want to dive deep into the serious stuff or simply flick through for some light, colourful inspiration. For me, reaching 70 editions is proof of what we’ve built together as a community, a space that informs, entertains, and celebrates us all.

Here’s to the next chapter. Thank you, as always, for reading, supporting, and being part of this journey.

P.s This is your final reminder to get your nominations in for the 2025 GNI Mag awards which are taking place on 15th November, you can find all the information via gnimag.com/awards

With love and pride,