Ulla Hokkanen, the esteemed Director of Galway Community Circus (GCC) since 2009, is embarking on a new chapter, bidding farewell to her transformative tenure in Ireland. Ulla’s unwavering dedication and vision have made an indelible mark on the landscape of Youth and Social Circus in Ireland, leaving a legacy that transcends the boundaries of the art form.

In 2002, Galway Community Circus emerged from the collective efforts of passionate circus artists and educators, united in their mission to introduce the enriching, non-competitive art of circus to the youth of Galway. Ulla Hokkanen, originating from Finland and drawn to Ireland to study Social Sciences at the University of Limerick, answered the call to join GCC 15 years ago. Her roots in circus arts traced back to her childhood in rural Finland, where she actively engaged in a local Youth Circus, a community initiative spearheaded by her parents.

For Ulla, the significance of creative endeavors in youth development resonated deeply. She championed the cause of social circus, viewing it as a platform empowering children, fostering confidence, and nurturing resilient young adults poised to become future community leaders.

Upon her arrival, GCC was a modest assembly of committed parents and their children, seeking an alternative avenue for youth growth, one distinct from the competitive norms prevalent in sports or culture. Ulla’s involvement steadily evolved from teaching to coordination, communication, and holistic development. Her tireless commitment propelled the group forward, transforming it into a vibrant community. As her passion infused the project, challenges were met with unwavering determination.

Under Ulla’s stewardship, Galway Community Circus became an integral part of the European social circus network, Caravan and she engaged GCS  in numerous European projects. She fostered robust connections with her native Finland, facilitating enriching exchange initiatives and supporting her peers in cultivating outward-facing projects. In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Ulla was honored in 2023 with the Cross of Merit of the Order of the Lion of Finland, a presidential accolade reserved for individuals significantly influencing Finnish cultural development.

As the ISACS (Irish Street Arts, Circus and Spectacle Network) states in their heartfelt farewell on their website: “Ulla has done more in her last 15 years towards the development and recognition of circus as a social tool in Ireland than anybody; creating employment, building beautiful artistic projects led by young people and quite literally transforming lives.”

As Ulla bids adieu to her impactful journey with GCC, her legacy remains deeply embedded within the vibrant fabric of Irish circus arts. Her unwavering dedication and transformative leadership have not only revolutionized circus practices but have also left an enduring impact on the lives of countless individuals, shaping a more inclusive, vibrant, and empowered community.