Occupation: Student
Age: 21
"My name is Émer McKenna, and I am from a small community called Slaughtneil, just outside Maghera in Co Derry. I am going into my final year of university studying Cardiac Physiology at the Ulster University in Jordanstown. I'm the 'baby' of the house with two older brothers and two older sisters.
"One of my main passions in life is raising money for charity, in particular for cancer charities. I feel like it's important to give back to those who have helped you in the past. When my father became ill with cancer in 2002, as a family we received so much help and support from cancer charities. This is where my love for fundraising and helping others has originated.
"Overall, I am so excited to share this experience with so many wonderful and inspiring women. I am absolutely honoured to represent Derry at the Rose of Tralee Festival and throughout the year.
"I can't wait to see what my journey in Tralee brings and what this year holds as the Derry Rose."
