Niamh O'Doherty;
Chronicle.lu recently had the opportunity to speak with the six young women who are vying to be the 2025 Luxembourg Rose.
The winning Rose will be crowned at the Luxembourg Rose Ball, taking place at Parc Hotel Alvisse in Luxembourg-Dommeldange on Saturday 17 May, and will represent the Grand Duchy at the Rose of Tralee International Festival in August 2025.
The Rose of Tralee International Festival is one of Ireland’s largest and longest running festivals. Dating back to 1959, it celebrates Irish communities and in particular young women of Irish descent (Roses), from countries all around the world. Roses are selected in a number of centres worldwide, with over 30 Roses subsequently participating in the Rose of Tralee International Festival, held annually in the town of Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland. Contestants take part in various activities during the five-day festival including parades and community events, as well as private and live televised interviews. The highlight of the festival is the selection of the International Rose of Tralee who will represent Ireland and the festival, both locally and around the world, during her one-year reign.
The festival name was inspired by a 19th century ballad written by William Pembroke Mulchinock about his forbidden love, Mary, whose beauty earned her the title of “The Rose of Tralee”.
In April 2025, the Luxembourg Rose Centre confirmed the names of this year's Luxembourg Rose contestants. Among them is Niamh O'Doherty, who spoke with Chronicle.lu about her Irish heritage and her reasons for entering the competition.
Chronicle.lu: What motivated you to take part in the competition and what has been the highlight of your time as a contestant so far?
Niamh O'Doherty: I was drawn to the Luxembourg Rose selection because I see it as a chance to celebrate Irish culture in a way that feels inclusive and modern. As someone living abroad, I've often reflected on how identity evolves over time - and this felt like a wonderful opportunity to represent an Irishness that bridges tradition and contemporary life. So far, the highlight has been meeting the other women taking part - sharing stories, laughter and a collective sense of pride in our heritage has been truly special.
Chronicle.lu: Tell us a little about yourself and what being Irish means to you, as well as how long you are living in Luxembourg and what brought you to the Grand Duchy.
Niamh O'Doherty: I’m originally from Limerick and have been living in Luxembourg for over five years. I moved here initially for a traineeship with the European Parliament and now work as an Information & Communications Officer at Eurostat, within the European Commission. My background is in languages and translation and I’ve always been passionate about keeping the Irish language alive in international spaces.
To me, being Irish is about warmth, resilience and connection - with people, language, music and stories. It’s also about carrying our culture proudly into new environments and staying rooted, even when we’re far from home.
Chronicle.lu: What do you love most about Luxembourg and what do you miss most about Ireland?
Niamh O'Doherty: What I love most about Luxembourg is its multicultural spirit. It’s a small country with a big heart, where you can hear multiple languages in one conversation and form friendships with people from around the world. It’s dynamic, yet peaceful - and has offered me a sense of belonging I didn’t expect to find so far from home. What I miss most about Ireland is the sea, the spontaneity of Irish conversation and the unique rhythm of life that makes even a quick trip to the shop feel like a story waiting to happen.
Chronicle.lu: What social issues are you most interested in and passionate about?
Niamh O’Doherty: I’m deeply passionate about mental health and emotional wellbeing, particularly in the context of life transitions - whether that’s unemployment, moving abroad or adjusting to new roles. I also care about linguistic diversity and women’s representation in international careers. I believe in creating inclusive spaces where different voices are heard, especially in environments like the EU institutions where decisions impact millions.
Chronicle.lu: What advice would you give to your younger self?
Niamh O'Doherty: I’d say: “Trust your instincts Niamh! It’s okay not to have it all figured out. The path you’re on will twist and turn, but you’ll find motivation in staying curious and kind - to others and to yourself. Don’t dim your light to fit in. Your love for languages, your sense of empathy, your drive - they’ll take you further than you can imagine.”
HOM
