Operation Transformation is back, which means it's time to take stock, set goals for the year ahead, and – most importantly – meet your new OT leaders!
The new season will kick off on RTÉ One on Wednesday, 3 January at 9:35pm with five brand-new leaders as it continues to connect communities all over Ireland with the aim of improving their health and wellbeing.
Ahead of the 17th season kicking off, we can finally reveal the first leader of 2024: Edel O'Malley.
36-year-old Edel hails from Castlebar, Co. Mayo, and works in HR for Ashford Castle in Cong, a role that she loves and has been working there for six years.
Edel lives with her fiancé, Marcin, and their 1-year-old son, Daniel. The couple met in a pub in Mayo, and Marcin was quick to write his number on a piece of paper for her. She followed up with a message that night and the rest, as they say, is history.
At the moment, Edel feels like she is stuck in a rut, with a busy work and family life, and can't seem to find the time to exercise. Although not a fan of running, she is determined to try and run the 5K at Phoenix Park.
Speaking on the challenge, Edel said: "I am most looking forward to bringing some positivity and motivation regarding health and fitness into my life, to prioritise my own well-being without feeling guilty and to become a healthier and more energetic mam for my son. I am thrilled to be chosen to be a leader and hope to inspire some people along the way on their own journeys."
This year's show will move to a new home in Kilbeggan, Co Westmeath. Each week the five leaders (who will all be revealed in early January) will have their Health Check-In at St James Hall.
In partnership with Westmeath County Council, the county will host the weekly Ad Break Challenges where Karl Henry gets groups from across the county moving, as well as the audience at home.
Kathryn Thomas will return to present the long-running show, and cheer on the brand new bunch of inspirational leaders as they embark on a health and wellness journey under the supervision of four qualified experts.
Devising the health and wellness plan and guiding the class of 2024 leaders in a new chapter of self-improvement are the team of OT experts: principal clinical psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy, dietitian Sophie Pratt, general practitioner Dr Sumi Dunne and fitness expert Karl Henry.
This season will see the launch of a brand-new Meal Plan devised by OT expert, CORU registered dietitian, and member of the Irish Institute of Nutrition and Dietetics, Sophie Pratt, aiming to aid a more sustainable approach to healthy eating that also reflects the cost-of-living crisis.
Click here to find out more about Operation Transformation 2024
