Chyanne Holmes
Where do you live? Washington D.C.
Current company and position? Northern Ireland Bureau North America, Deputy Director.
First job and what it taught me? My first public service job was as a Parliamentary Advisor in Stormont - right out of university so it was both daunting and exciting! It was where my passion for public service began. It was where I learned that even the smallest decisions can have a profound impact on people’s lives, and make a real difference. It gave me a sense of purpose. The role taught me the value of listening, collaboration, and integrity in shaping policy for a better society for us all. It laid the foundation for my career.
How do you embrace your Irish heritage? I embrace my Irish heritage by proudly sharing Northern Ireland’s story with North America. Growing up in Belfast gave me a deep appreciation and pride for our people, culture, creativity, and resilience. Today, I channel my pride into my work - strengthening our partnerships across North America and showcasing our capabilities in the arts, business, research, and education through impactful events, strategic programme initiatives, and meaningful engagements. I’m passionate about supporting our artists, our innovators, and our next generation leaders and telling the story of our home - one that is dynamic, full of talent and opportunity. And in everyday life, I keep my connection with home alive by weaving it into the little things I do - sharing stories about home with whoever will listen (recently it was a bus driver in Canada!), introducing friends to our music, food, films and traditions, or connecting with others from home to celebrate our heritage.
Something people would be surprised to know about me... I practiced Karate and Taekwondo for years. I can still throw a decent roundhouse kick, although these days I mostly stick to diplomacy instead of sparring!
Biography: Chyanne Holmes is Deputy Director of the Northern Ireland Bureau in Washington D.C., driving initiatives that strengthen Northern Ireland’s political, economic, and cultural ties across North America. With over a decade of experience in diplomacy and strategic engagement, she played a key role during Brexit and COVID-19 while based in Brussels, leading campaigns and building global networks at the UK Mission to the EU. Her earlier work in the European Parliament and NI Executive Office advanced Northern Ireland’s international profile. Today, Chyanne spearheads the Bureau's transatlantic outreach, building partnerships that amplify Northern Ireland’s influence and opportunities across North America.
