Welcome to Hare’s Corner Cooperative. We are a passionate group of individuals committed to creating positive change in our community. Our cooperative thrives on collaboration, creativity, and a shared vision for a brighter future. Below, you’ll find a little bit about each of our members and what inspires them.
MEET Our Members

ALAN WALLDER
I’m fascinated by geology, the natural world, and the deep history of our planet. Prehistoric human life and its mysteries especially intrigue me. Beyond the land, I have a passion for sailing.

ANA CHIRINCIUC
By day I create digital maps and by night I’m a surface pattern designer with a passion for all things floral. Originally from Moldova, now living in NI. I find inspiration in nature to create delicate, vibrant watercolour and digital designs for home decor, textile and stationery.

CHRIS HEATH
I’m a videographer passionate about creating powerful social media videos for businesses across the UK and Ireland. I’m from a small village in Co. Down, just outside Downpatrick, called Crossbar. Beyond filmmaking, I have a deep love for music, football, and cinema. Through my work at 3FortyFive Films, I help brands tell their stories in a compelling and visually engaging way.

CLAIRE MILLAR – TREASURER
I have many years’ experience in managing and sustaining a community building including managing staff and volunteers and organising community and public events. I also have a keen interest in the creative arts and enjoy drawing and painting.

DAVID KEYS – CHAIRPERSON
I’m a proud husband, devoted dad, and nature enthusiast who finds joy in creating beautiful, lasting pieces from wood. My guiding values are family, friendship, and the outdoors, and I bring a spirit of care and quality craftsmanship to every project I undertake.

FRANCESCA GRAHAM
I’m a passionate nature photographer with a love for capturing the beauty of the world around us. Whether it’s the delicate details of wildlife or breathtaking landscapes, I’m always searching for the perfect shot.

GERALDINE MCKERNAN – DIRECTOR
I’m a Forest Facilitator with Hare’s Corner Cooperative. My passion revolves around all things nature, I find joy in helping people of all ages connect or reconnect with the natural world. I can teach you various ways to engage with the environment, whether through learning, play, using your senses, or by simply being present.

GOSIA O’HAGAN
As a community activist, I embrace the richness of our diverse world, viewing languages, cultures, and traditions not as barriers but as vast oceans of possibilities. I find joy in building connections across these differences, fostering unity and understanding within our community.

JOHN MCFADDEN

KARIN EYBEN – SECRETARY
I was born in Zambia but have been living and working in Northern Ireland for more than 25 years. What drew me to the Hare’s Corner Cooperative is the magic that happens when different people connect and create something that would not have been possible individually. Sometimes, the most radical thing we can do is connect and build a relationship, whether it is with other humans or the rest of the natural world. What I can offer is support around facilitation, reflective learning and evaluation and participatory budgeting.

KATHLEEN DOHERTY
Since the age of 20 I have run several businesses including a sandwich bar and a Morellis Ice Cream Parlour in Garvagh. Today I run a wellness centre in the same building. I have always had a deep passion for exploring alternative ways of healing physical, mental and emotional ill health.

KELLY PINKERTON – VICE SECRETARY
I’m a facilitator passionate about creating opportunities for children of all abilities and their families to connect with nature. I love making, creating, and organising experiences that inspire curiosity, play, and learning in the great outdoors.
I’ve worked with children and young people in a variety of settings, from leading forest school adventures for pre-schoolers to developing creative, nature-based projects for young people. Whether it’s designing interactive trails, crafting storytelling sessions, or supporting schools with participatory budgeting initiatives, I’m driven by a desire to help young people build confidence, explore their creativity, and develop a lifelong connection to the natural world.

LAURA MCLAUGHLIN

LENA ARCHIBALD
I am an experienced forest school facilitator and have a keen interest in the local natural environment and am committed to enhancing it. I enjoy sharing my knowledge of nature with others in the hope that they will come to enjoy, love and care for it too.

LIZ O’CONNOR – DIRECTOR
I’m passionate about nature, crafting, and getting lost in a good book. As an experienced Forest Guide and writer, I love sharing the magic of nature with others. In my free time, I enjoy being creative through hands-on projects, storytelling, and time spent outdoors.

LUCY FLANAGAN – DIRECTOR
I am a magazine editor who loves cats and baking. Additionally, I help manage a regenerative organic farm and assist with the family ecological consultancy business.
Rathview Farm – beef box delivery of organic-reared, grass fed, belted Galloway beef, prepared by a local butcher. Includes steaks, pot roast, roasting joints, braising steak, mince, steak pieces, sausages, veg roll, and burgers. Text or call 07764 588203 to order .
Flanagan Ecology – our principal area of expertise is in the production of specialist ecological advice to support planning applications, ecological surveys, and industry standard reports. Our services include Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Biodiversity Checklists, protected species surveys, mitigation and licensing requirements. We are also experienced in providing agri-environmental advice, habitat restoration, creation, and management solutions.

NONGLAK MCFADDEN

NOREEN LINTON
I live in Garvagh with my husband and two daughters. I joined the Hare’s Corner Cooperative a year ago and have enjoyed every moment since. I especially love our forest activities and working with children of all ages. Our group is filled with wonderful friends who are kind, helpful, and always look out for one another. Even though I can only do so much, the calming atmosphere in our office and out in the forest makes it all worthwhile. I truly love being part of everything we do.

ROISIN O’KANE
I’m married to Declan with 2 beautiful (but crazy) children, Sorcha and Sean. I love walking and being out in nature. I also enjoy reading and spending time with family and friends.

RUTH ELLIOTT
I was fortunate to have a fulfilling career as a primary school teacher and now find retirement even more rewarding. I enjoy walking, playing tennis, traveling, and have a love for the theatre. I actively engage in outdoor learning initiatives, and the opportunity to connect with nature and the community. Embracing these passions has made this chapter of life truly enriching.

SAMANTHA DOHERTY

SASHA PETROVA

TOM GERRITSEN
I’m a Christian, a devoted husband to my amazing wife, Zilka, and a passionate cook. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing people come together over a good meal and knowing they love the food I create. For me, cooking isn’t just about flavours, it’s about connection, community, and sharing something made with care.

VICKY SEVIOUR
I’m a Disney adult who likes to travel, read or sit in the hot tub in complete silence. You’ll regularly find me volunteering at parkrun or litter picking.

YULIIA ZOLOTUKHINA
I am an explorer and lifelong learner with a deep passion for traveling, cooking, reading, and discovering new experiences. I thrive on creativity, innovation, and connecting with people in meaningful ways. Whether it’s uncovering the latest social media trends, experimenting with fresh ideas, or sharing insights, I love embracing challenges and finding inspiration in the world around me.

ZILKA GERRITSEN
I’m a Christian, a home schooling mum of five, and the heart behind my own bakery. Baking is more than just a business for me, it’s a way to bring joy and warmth to others. I cherish the opportunity to connect with people one-on-one, hearing their stories and sharing experiences.
