December 2024: Supporting the Irish in Boston and my Newstalk Debut!
- Gemma Allen

- Feb 27
- 2 min read
When I was a young bold pup, my mother had a saying that would always make me roll my eyes: "Show me your company, and I’ll tell you who you are." At the time, it seemed like just another piece of advice that felt a bit too old-fashioned. But now, wrapping up this week here in the US of A, those words are taking on a whole new level of meaning.
In the whirlwind of life, I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent time with some truly inspiring people. This week, I had the privilege of joining my dear pal, Aoibheann O'Brien, for an unforgettable event in Boston, hosted by the always remarkable Rory MacIntyre, Maudy Dooher, and the team at The Ireland Funds. Aoibheann continues to amaze me with everything she's accomplishing with FoodCloud, and I couldn’t be more proud of the work they're doing. It's not just about feeding people – it's about creating a system that reduces waste while serving communities in need. The impact is profound, and Aoibheann’s passion shines through in everything she does.
I also had the chance to catch up with the incredible Martina Curtin, whose mission with Mná Mheiriceá has never felt more important. The work she's leading, empowering women and creating space for voices that deserve to be heard, is changing lives and making a difference across communities. With everything going on in the world, her work is more essential than ever.
The week wouldn't have been complete without a live chat on Newstalk, where I joined Kieran Cuddihy and his team to discuss the transatlantic business impacts of the recent election outcome. Their hospitality and warmth were so genuine, it made me a little more than just homesick. It was a reminder of the power of connection and the influence we have when we come together, even across an ocean.
In the chaos of these times, I find myself reflecting on my mother’s words. The people we choose to surround ourselves with, and the causes we support, say so much about who we are. Grateful doesn't even begin to cover how I feel after spending time with such incredible individuals and being part of moments that inspire change. The company we keep truly shapes who we become. 💚


Comments