London Rose Shauna Sammon Raises Funds for Pensioners at Urgent Event

URGENT UPDATE: London Rose Shauna Sammon hosted a successful fundraiser on July 5, 2023, at The Claddagh Ring, raising vital funds for the Southwark Irish Pensioners, a cause that holds deep personal significance for her. The race night, emceed by Joe O’Neill, attracted a vibrant crowd eager to support the older Irish community in London.

The event featured entertainment from singer-songwriter Niall McNamee and showcased the strength of the Irish community in London. Shauna, who is a 28-year-old teacher from Erriff, Co. Mayo, expressed her gratitude to everyone involved, stating, “I’m so grateful to everyone that contributed to the night to make it such a success.”

Shauna chose to support the Southwark Irish Pensioners following the passing of her grandfather on April 1. She emphasized the importance of the charity’s work, saying, “They do a lot of work supporting the older Irish community in London who may not have family to visit them.”

With the Rose of Tralee Festival fast approaching on August 15-19, Shauna is preparing to represent London as she competes among the 32 Roses. “It’s exciting,” she said, highlighting her anticipation for the festival. “My family are so looking forward to it, and it is another time for us all to get together.”

During the fundraising event, Shauna reflected on her journey, admitting, “I think it will continue to sink in for the year.” Having grown up watching the Rose of Tralee on television, she is thrilled to be part of it. “To think that I’ll be one of those 32 Roses up on the stage this August is still quite surreal but it’s exciting.”

The night was a testament to the strong Irish community in north London, with Shauna praising the contributions of Joe O’Neill and the support from local sponsors. “Finbar Holian had everything organized so it was great,” she added.

As Shauna gears up for the Rose of Tralee, she is looking forward to the journey across Ireland leading up to the festival. “We start off in Meath and we do a little tour around Ireland before we reach Tralee,” she shared. The excitement is palpable, as this represents not just a personal achievement, but also a celebration of her heritage.

Stay tuned for further updates as Shauna prepares for this prestigious event, a momentous occasion for both her and the London Irish community.