Description
This interview provides an insight into the lives and experiences of the women from SPUDS, a Drumcree-based group that has become a vital lifeline for its members. SPUDS stands for Super Practical Ultimate De-Stressing. In a society where isolation can creep in unnoticed, SPUDS offers a safe haven - a space for laughter, creativity, and support. The women reflect on how the group has given them not only a voice but also a community that understands and uplifts.
Through their candid stories, the women explore the ways SPUDS has helped them navigate life’s challenges. They share their worries, their triumphs, and their personal growth, demonstrating the profound impact of belonging to a close-knit group.
At its core, the group exemplifies the idea that communities thrive not just through shared goals, but through the meaningful relationships built along the way. For many of the members, SPUDS has been a bridge to escape feelings of being left behind or invisible. It has allowed them to find common ground with others from diverse walks of life, sparking new perspectives and shared ambitions.
The interview reveals the breadth of their discussions, from breaking out of the “Northern Irish bubble” and advocating for the Irish language, to embracing activism and creating connections that transcend cultural and social divides. The women talk passionately about the importance of reaching beyond immediate surroundings to engage with the world, and each other, in meaningful ways.
A great example of their creativity and collective effort is the Monkey Mind project, a collaboration between SPUDS co-ordinators, the Ingham sisters’ band - The Twisted Sisters - and the SPUDs choir, The WTF Choir. This project, which was archived for the Northern Ireland Now initiative, showcases the group’s talent for turning shared struggles into shared art while raising money for a good cause.
As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that the heart of SPUDsSlies in its ability to foster deep, genuine connections. The women reflect on how companionship within the group has enriched their lives, providing solace during hard times and amplifying their joys. They describe SPUDS as a testament to the power of community bonding and give us a reminder that in coming together, we find strength, purpose, and the courage to face life’s challenges.