Derry city girl Aine Morrison has been chosen to represent her home city and county at this year's Rose of Tralee competition.
The Rose of Tralee competition has been an integral part of Aine's family, as she recalls her mother calling them in from the street to watch it, ironing school shirts as it was approaching the beginning of the school term.
This year, Aine and her family will be on the other side of the television screen.
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Aine spoke to MyDerry about the rollercoaster experience she has had so far and how she feels going into the competition in the summer.
She said: "I had finished my undergraduate degree in biomedical science and my postgraduate degree in physician associate studies when I saw on Facebook that they were looking for Derry applicants.
"I thought I may as well go for it. I didn't even tell my family until I had been accepted into the Derry selection event!
"When they announced my name as the Derry Rose, it was a bit of an out-of-body experience, I just heard my mammy say oh my god, I actually had to ask the girl beside me if it was my name they called out!"
For Aine, the chance to showcase her city is incredibly important.
She said: "It would be a great buzz about the city if I brought the Rose of Tralee home. It is such a big international and established event, there are American roses coming over for it.
"Derry has seen a huge increase in representation from things like Derry Girls and to represent Derry city, as well as the wider county, is so important to me."
Aine enjoyed a recent reception with Derry Mayor Sandra Duffy, and praised the level of support she has received across the city.
She said: "One of the best parts of Derry is its people. There has always been a great support network in the city. When someone is in need the city rallies around them.
"Lots of people have put their support behind me. Meeting the Mayor was amazing, I felt as if I was going to meet a celebrity but she is so lovely and made me feel so relaxed.
"My family have of course been so supportive. We joke and call my dad my 'dad-ager'.
"My mum as well cries at everything and now that we are getting to the stage of choosing dresses I can see her getting a bit teary. But they can't wait until the Rose of Tralee and being there on the night."
Aine's whole family are looking forward to going to the Rose of Tralee in August. For Aine, the memories matter more than winning.
She said: "There are of course nerves there but I am going to go and just enjoy it. If it happens it happens and if it doesn't then the memories will last a lifetime.
"I am thrilled to be going to represent Derry, we are a great city and I hope I do it proud."
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