Homecoming 2014 in September 2014 marked the first time that the global diaspora had been invited ‘home’ to join in the efforts to build a better Belfast.

Led by the irrepressible Mayor of Boston Marty Walsh, over 50 guests from the global Irish joined 250 of Belfast’s civic leaders to chart a bright new path for the resurgent Belfast.

Commitments were made, pledges given and actions taken by our visitors which will blossom in the time ahead as we build golden bridges from Belfast into the communities, cities and countries of our global family.

Among the friends of Belfast who joined us — all covering their own costs — were Jim Clerkin, CEO of Möet Hennessy USA, New Jersey restaurateur Francis Schott, Silicon Valley serial entrepreneur Séamus McAteer, Irish Network US President Steve Eaves and Boston Irish Network President Seán Moynihan, Belfast business ambassador in Boston Kathleen Hagan, and human rights champion Lieutenant General Rick O’Meara.

Rolling out the red carpet for them was an exceptional team of honorary Homecoming Chairs led by our sponsors Deloitte, Magners, NI Connections, Ulster Bank, Duncairn Culture and Arts Centre, Titanic Quarter Ltd and UNITED.

But the success of the inaugural Homecoming is merely a scene-setter for Homecoming II when we will bring 150 leaders from the Diaspora to continue the work of building up Belfast. I look forward to seeing you there.