Carmel McKinney is the Chairperson of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS). After studying English and French at university, Carmel went on to become a teacher and one of Northern Ireland’s leading experts in the area of Dyslexia. This journey eventually resulted in her becoming the principal of a school and receiving an OBE for her work in education. Later in life, Carmel pivoted into a career into the public sector, sitting on and advising many boards — some which where she was the only woman out of 35 people — before becoming the chairperson of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. The impact of her work has been recognised through a number of highly prestigious awards including the Institute of Directors Non-Executive Director of the Year Award and the Guardian Public Services Diversity and Inclusion Award. Carmel is also an acclaimed Irish-dancer and has taken part in competitions all over the world. Her claim to fame in that department of her life was dancing for the US President on St. Patricks day. In today’s episode, we talk about the importance of ‘giving it a go’ and trying new things, the role Carmel’s family has played in her success and how to really change the world. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Carmel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/carmel-mckinney-nifrs Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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