Night Czar’s South Africa trip highlights industry’s generosity

Michael Stewart, Belfast’s City Centre’s Night Czar and director of Common Market, recently returned from a transformative trip to South Africa, where he joined the Belfast to Blanco (B2B) project.

The initiative, part of the R City programme organised by the Spectrum Centre on the Shankill Road, connects young people from the Shankill and Ardoyne area with communities in Blanco, near Cape Town, to engage in various local projects.

B2B is a yearly programme that selects 18 teenagers from Belfast through a detailed application process, aiming to foster self-development. Stewart, who has mentored many of the youth involved, explained, “We fundraise together, charging a small donation at the door at Common Market to support the project. Some of the kids even work with us part-time, and I lead leadership classes to help them grow.”

For years, the organisers had been urging Stewart to join them on this trip. This year, he finally agreed, funding the trip entirely out of his own pocket. “It was truly an experience that humbled me,” Stewart shared. He also committed to sponsoring a soup kitchen in Blanco for the next year, ensuring local children receive a warm meal after school, Monday through Friday. “It’s a small but meaningful gesture. I know it will make a difference,” he said.

Stewart’s involvement extended beyond just his personal donation. He brought 25 bags weighing 23 kilograms each of donated items, including school uniforms, toiletries, and pens for the local schools. “The generosity, particularly from various different companies, including those within the Belfast hospitality industry was key to making all of this possible,” Stewart explained. “From whiskey miniatures to t-shirts, it was incredible to see all businesses come together to help.”

Click HERE to read full article.