GNI's Business Contribution to the Community Award 2025!

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the MAC has been named GNI MAG’s Business Contribution to the Community Award 2025!

This award means so much to us because allyship is at the heart of who we are and what we do. It’s reflected in our programming, the people we partner with and the atmosphere we work hard to create- a place where everyone feels welcomed and celebrated.

Working closely with LGBTQIA+ artists and communities has brought extraordinary creativity into our building. From Thomas Wells’ A Queer Dander, exploring Belfast’s Pride legacy, to the community-led publication SAM’S EDEN, these projects have made our spaces richer, braver and more vibrant.

Our MACtivate partnership with The Rainbow Project has allowed us to open our doors even wider- welcoming Trans Pride Markets, World AIDS Day events and Alexa Moore’s joyful Queer Set Dancing classes. Supporting events that uplift LGBTQIA+ voices is something we’re deeply proud of.

We love celebrating together too. Each year, the MAC team marches proudly in the Belfast Pride Parade, and our Get Ready With Us for Pride event brings families, friends and allies together for music, colour and excitement before stepping out onto the parade route. From weddings to workshops, we’re committed to ensuring every corner of the MAC feels open, warm and inclusive.

Winning this award, and receiving a nomination for Queer Friendly Venue, is a true honour. It also reaffirms our commitment to meaningful, ongoing inclusion. The MAC is your home as much as ours- whoever you are, you’re welcome here.

We also want to send warmest congratulations go to our partners The Rainbow Project who were named Charity of the Year, and to Alexa Moore, who was recognised as Advocate of the Year for her extraordinary dedication to Queer and Trans rights. We’re so proud to work alongside organisations and individuals who make such a powerful impact.

A huge well done to all of this year’s winners and nominees!