The North West’s innovation has been recognised on the world stage as Pakflatt’s groundbreaking “McGonagle Reader” (MGR) has earned a place in the 2025 Design and Disability Exhibition at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. This innovative audio-assisted touch navigation voting system is transforming how blind and visually impaired people vote — independently, in secret, and with confidence.

Pakflatt’s Managing Director Patrick McGonagle MBE. C.Eng. FIET., said:

“We are delighted that the curators of this landmark exhibition have selected the MGR. It has been exhaustively tested and achieved a 93% fitness for purpose accreditation after testing by the RNIB, and we are confident in its potential to make a real difference in the lives of blind and partially sighted voters.”

This achievement underscores the innovative spirit and impact of the North West’s design and technology sector, and showcases the remarkable achievements of Derry Chamber members.

In this spirit, employees at fellow Chamber Member FinTrU’s North West office in Carlisle House have raised an incredible £200,000 for AWARE NI, Northern Ireland’s leading depression charity, over a two-year partnership. From taking part in AWARE NI’s coastal walks and abseiling to organising in-house fundraising events, FinTrU staff showed immense dedication to fundraising for AWARE NI’s vital mental health services. The funds have supported AWARE NI’s free support groups, outreach services, and education programmes, making a tangible difference in the community.

FinTrU employees presented the final cheque to AWARE before Christmas, boosting the charity’s Christmas loneliness campaign. Funds raised through this campaign ensured the support groups remained fully operational following the festive season, at a time when many individuals face challenges such as loneliness, social anxiety, and financial hardship.

Katrien Roppe, FinTrU Chief of Staff, shared her thoughts on the collaboration, saying:

“FinTrU is passionate about giving back to the community and supporting important causes like AWARE NI. Mental health is a crucial issue, and we are committed to supporting AWARE NI’s efforts to provide essential services. Our employees voted for AWARE as our charity partner and we have greatly enjoyed working with the team over the past two years.”

This serves to truly highlight the vibrant community spirit that exists in the North West and amongst our members.

2025 is bringing further positive news for the North West, with EY Northern Ireland set to open its new North West regional office in Ebrington Plaza later this year, bringing with it job creation, investment, and rejuvenation of the local area. This investment demonstrates the exceptional talent pool that exists in the North West and the potential ready to be unlocked in the region.