Four Belfast residents have been announced amongst 12 finalists for homegrown holistic weight loss and wellness company, Unislim’s, inaugural Inspire Awards. They were each recognised for their unique stories and transformations across three categories.

Frank McGuckin was shortlisted for the Most Inspiring Transformation award, following a weight loss of 6st 0.5lbs. The category celebrates a member’s extraordinary transformation.

Cherie Driver and Mark Foster were both shortlisted for the Community Spirit Award, which recognises individuals who have helped to support and motivate other members.

Pauline Shields was shortlisted for the Health Hero Award, which pays tribute to a member who has overcome health challenges during their journey with Unislim.

The final category is the WOW Award, which recognises a personal accomplishment unrelated to weight loss.

Fiona Gratzer, CEO of Unislim, says, “We’re thrilled to announce the twelve finalists who’ve made it to our inaugural Inspire Awards and to celebrate their life-changing transformations. 

“To each of our standout finalists and thousands of members across Northern Ireland, we extend our warmest wishes for success. We look forward to unveiling our award winners on October 4th!”

One of the finalists, Frank McGuckin, says, “I’m honoured to have been shortlisted for the Most Inspiring Transformation category at Unislim’s first ever Inspire Awards.

“Prior to joining Unislim, I weighed over 18 stone and struggled to find clothes that fitted. Since joining the community, I am eating healthily and doing regular exercise each day, from spinning, to bootcamps.

“I absolutely love the classes and have found that my overall health has improved and that I no longer have breathing issues.

“I’m very much looking forward to the awards ceremony and wish all of my fellow finalists the best of luck.”

The awards ceremony, where the winners of the four categories will be unveiled, will be held at The Merchant Hotel, Belfast, on 4th October 2023.

Unislim, which was founded in Newry in 1972 by Agnes McCourt, is celebrating its 51st anniversary. It is now run by Agnes’ daughter, CEO Fiona Gratzer.

Unislim offers weekly classes across Northern Ireland, to support, motivate and inspire members to reach their happy weight.

A cornerstone of Unislim’s offering is its unique Balance Plan, which includes over 500 nourishing and healthy foods. Combined with their Bites system, which is for those little extras, the easy-to-follow plan ensures that no food is off limits for members.

Developed during lockdown, Unislim’s new Online program is the perfect space to create new healthy habits.   Joining Unislim ensures access to exclusive online content, along with the ability to choose a Zoom class during a preferred day and time.  It also ensures instant access to Unislim’s exclusive members only app.

Unislim has partnered with the charity, Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke, who provide expert care and support to anyone at risk of or currently living with chest, heart and stroke conditions.

To find out more about Unislim, visit unislim.com or email: hello@unislim.com