WATCH: 'Everybody belongs on stage' - Kildare Rose Jessica Hunter shares advice for future Roses
Jessica Hunter reflects on her Rose journey and encourages future Roses to believe in themselves
The Roses of Tralee received a warm welcome at Barack Obama Plaza in Moneygall on Tuesday, August 11, as the 32 contestants made a special stop at the famous landmark on their journey to Tralee.
Among them was 2026 Kildare Rose Jessica Hunter, a 28-year-old from Kildare Town.
Her love of travel later led to an eight-year career as cabin crew with Aer Lingus and Emirates, including two years living in Dubai.
At Barack Obama Plaza, Jessica joined the other 31 Roses for an afternoon of Irish music, dancing, food and entertainment before continuing their journey towards Kerry.
The Roses were welcomed by Supermac’s Managing Director Pat McDonagh, with the reception hosted by Rose of Tralee Committee Member Ollie Turner.
The afternoon included performances from champion Irish dancers Saoirse and Lucy, live music and entertainment, while some of the Roses also got the chance to step behind the Supermac’s counter and try their hand at making the famous Moozies.
The visit concluded with a group photograph at the Barack Obama statue before the Roses continued their journey to Tralee.
For Jessica, the Moneygall visit was another memorable part of an exciting summer as she prepares to represent Kildare at the 2026 Rose of Tralee International Festival, which gets underway on Friday, August 14.
Watch our video interview with Kildare Rose Jessica Hunter above as she talks about her journey, her international background, life as cabin crew and what representing Kildare means to her.