On the 30th of September, the stage was set for the Sunday Life Spirit of NI Awards 2022. Hosted in the stunning Culloden Hotel by UTV's Marc Mallet and Ruth Gorman, it welcomed some of Northern Ireland’s biggest stars to honour Northern Ireland’s unsung heroes.

The ceremony began with a gala dinner, as winners accepted their awards between courses. There was plenty of live entertainment, with a comedy performance from Tim McGarry and an impromptu rendition of Teenage Kicks from James Nesbitt and rock band Ash.

But it was the moment Spirit of Education winner, Hilary Cunningham, collected her award that marked the highlight of the night with her ex-pupil, now professional boxer, Carl Frampton, sending a heartfelt video message to Hilary. Sponsored by iPRO, the award recognises those in the education sector helping children and young people fulfil their potential.

Following the awards Martin Breen, Sunday Life Editor, said:

"The Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards celebrates the real heroes across our community.  It was so humbling to hear all our winner's inspirational stories. A huge thank you to all our sponsors, including iPRO Hydrate, for helping ensure we could pay tribute to each and every one of these amazing people from every corner of Northern Ireland."

Lucy Darrall, iPRO Global Partnerships Manager, who presented the award also commented:

“The iPRO team had a wonderful night at the Spirit of NI Awards ceremony. There were so many inspirational stories being shared which made the night feel incredibly special. Particularly the Spirit of Education award winner, Hilary Cunningham, to who we’d like to extend a massive congratulations. It was an honour to support this award.”

As part of the sponsorship, bottles of iPRO Hydrate were placed on the tables for guests to take home and replenish with the following morning. They were accompanied with details about iPRO’s launch into Northern Ireland with supplier Irish Food & Beverages.

Irish Food & Beverages joined parkrun Ireland and motorcycle racer, Jeremy McWilliam, as guests at the iPRO table. Other sponsors on the night included Better and Balmoral Healthcare.