BEST AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER FINALIST - Irati Oleaga

Your Name: Irati Oleaga
 
Your favourite thing about West Belfast: Its people!
  
Your First Job: Advocacy Caseworker at RFJ 
 
What it taught you: The power of community-led advocacy and the importance of standing up for human rights, truth, and justice, especially alongside the families of West Belfast and across Ireland.
 
What do you think are the key ingredients needed to make a person or organisation the Best of the West? I think it takes heart, community spirit, and a real commitment to people. As a foreigner, West Belfast welcomed me and made me feel at home; it’s a place that embraces you and stands together. Being the Best of the West means giving back to that spirit and standing with others.
 
I’m originally from the Basque Country and moved to Belfast 11 years ago. I’m happiest hiking and photographing nature. Exploring Ireland’s landscapes has shaped my journey, and while my accent still confuses people, I'm grateful for how West Belfast welcomed me and gave me a real sense of home.