Drake Music NI had the honour of supporting students from Parkview Special School in a live, workshopped performance at Calebs Cause ‘Shine A Light’ – a moving and empowering event held at Stormont, Belfast.
Our team worked closely with the students to help bring their creative vision to life. Their heartfelt rendition of Snow Patrol’s Run lit up the Parliament Buildings and left a lasting impression on everyone present. For many of the young performers, it was their first time on a public stage—an experience that was both emotional and unforgettable.
We were proud to be part of an evening that so clearly reflected the mission of the #CalebsCauseNI campaign: to highlight the ability within disability, and to advocate for stronger Post-19 SEND legislation that ensures a future full of opportunity for all young people. Shine A Light shows the power of visibility, and what can happen when young people with additional needs are given the platform to shine.
As a charity, Drake Music NI is passionate about opening up creative opportunities for all, as we believe that music is for everyone. We especially value the opportunity to support people of all ages and paths in building confidence, independence, and creative skills that can shape their future.
The event featured a series of performances and video presentations from a number of remarkable schools across Northern Ireland, including:
- St Gerard’s School
- Fleming Fulton School
- Mitchell House School
- Beechlawn School
- Harberton School
- Parkview Special School (in collaboration with Drake Music NI)
Each school brought something unique and moving to the evening—showcasing talent, creativity, and the incredible potential of young people with disabilities.
The evening included inspiring contributions from:
Alma White, host and organiser, who welcomed guests and closed the event;
Diane Dodds MLA, event sponsor, who shared opening remarks and introduced Minister Givan;
Paul Givan, Minister, who delivered a keynote address;
Linda Dillon, who gave closing comments and introduced a message from the Minister for the Economy;
Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Minister for the Economy;
Mike Nesbitt, Minister for Health.
Also powerful introductions and reflections from:
Stephen Ramsey, Principal of St Gerard’s School;
Karen Hancock, Principal of Fleming Fulton School;
Deborah Graham, Senior Teacher at Mitchell House School;
Dr Joanne Atkinson, Principal of Beechlawn School;
Claire Mac Donald, Vice Principal of Harberton School;
Colin Ward, Principal of Parkview Special School;
Michelle McCormack, Drake Music NI.
📹 Watch the performance of Parkview School in collaboration with Drake Music NI
Click here to view the video on Facebook
Let’s keep shining a light on all that our young people can do—and continue pushing for a more inclusive, creative, and equitable future.
#DrakeMusicNI #ShineALight #CalebsCauseNI #Post19 #InclusiveMusic #Hope #CelebrateAbility #MusicForAll
