Holly Mc Crea applied for the Miss Donegal role just one hour before the application deadline.

And she can thank her lucky stars that she did it in time!

The Donegal Town woman emerged as the Miss Donegal 2019 victor following a glamorous final at Harvey’s Point in June. Since then, the 23-year-old teacher has enjoyed an exciting summer wearing the sash with pride at various events and with community groups.

 

Holly’s calendar is getting even busier as she works towards the Miss Ireland national pageant final in September.

“As Miss Donegal I really want to make the most of the whole year, it’s only an opportunity that will come around once,” Holly tells DW.

“I entered the build my own confidence and self-esteem, to meet new people and take the opportunities that come with it, like travelling and using the platform to do charity work.”

While she has the title, Holly is raising awareness and funds for the children’s charity Variety Ireland – the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ Partner of Miss Ireland for 2019.

This Saturday she is hosting a vintage afternoon tea party at the Cove Lodge B&B from 12noon – 3pm. Everyone is welcome to come and support the party, which is set to be a fun and elegant event. If you can’t make it on the day, you can donate to the fund here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/vintage-tea-party-for-variety-ireland

Holly has also been volunteering at the Bluestacks Special Needs Foundation this summer in Donegal Town. Working with young people who have autism and special needs is a huge passion of hers.

Holly graduated as a teacher of Home Economics, Biology and Science last year. Her first role in a school was in an ASD classroom in Ballyshannon.

“I worked there the whole year and it was such rewarding work, seeing the kids every day and how they overcome the difficulties they face,” Holly said.

“I love working with children and at the Bluestacks summer camp and Saturday club. It is such a great resource for the kids and it takes the pressure off the parents. The kids just brighten up your day.”

Holly lets her own bright and positive personality shine through her beautiful Instagram page. Her @__hollieanna account offers a snippet of her stylish life as Miss Donegal.

She is also promoting the tourism gems of the county with her colourful photos and is eager to make the county stand out in the Miss Ireland contest.

Holly said that she can’t wait to get on the stage for the lavish selection night of Miss Ireland 2019. The winner will get the opportunity to represent the country at the Miss World pageant in London in December.

And Holly will be in good company at the Ireland final in The Helix in Dublin, as she will be joined by fellow Donegal competitors Miss Letterkenny Anna Gallagher and Miss Kildare Naomi Molloy, who is from Glenties.