#ThinkLanguages Opening Ceremony

The #ThinkLanguages 2025 Opening Ceremony is packed full of inspiring pieces from people in all walks of life who have reaped the benefits of language skills and who use those skills in their day-to-day lives. Our presenters Seán Ó Maoilchiaráin and Laura Packenham chat to them all about their experiences and their tips for success!

Gráinne Mullins, founder of award-winning Grá chocolates tells us how her French language skills paved the way towards the successful business she runs today. 

Erasmus student Shane Hurley gives us an insight into his life in Italy and tells us how his love for Italian has broadened his horizons, while Eleanor Dunne provides a glance into working life abroad.

Coach Ozzy provides some language-based moves in Portuguese to get the students up and their blood pumping!

Méabh McMahon, Chief Anchor at Euronews recounts how her language skills helped her travel the world and build a career in international journalism.

Yuji Beleza, a Japanese-Irish social media influencer and polyglot shares how languages have helped him not only make friends and build connections, but to cross cultural divides.