Sharon Nolan is a bisexual rainbow-haired activist living in Galway city. She’s also the director of social media on the 2016 Galway Pride Festival committee.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A world where we all have equal rights and opportunities, no matter our gender, sexuality, race, their socio-economic background, physical or mental capabilities.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
For the year that’s in it, definitely Constance Markievicz.
Which living person do you most admire?
Colm O’Gorman. He’s a complete badass who fights for human right, and for suing the Pope.
Which is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
The fact is I could answer this question with a whole list if I was honest.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Make-up. I love collecting it, wearing it, tracking down the best products from around the world online, appreciating it on others, and just having fun with it.
What is your favourite journey?
The years of work at accepting my sexuality and who I am as a person. It’s a life-long journey, but one I’ve made great progress at the last few years.
On what occasion do you lie?
When I tell someone I don’t want to go out ‘cos I have work in the morning. Most nights I’m just happier doing something else. Sorry friends, I’m that boring!
Which living person do you most despise?
I try not to use my energy despising people, and instead just ignore them and continue on with my day.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
The “who” would be my partner, who never fails to make me smile. The “what” would be that vegan mac and cheese recipe I found online last year - it’s the ultimate meal!
When and where were you happiest?
Two years ago, when my little sister was born, she is simply the light of my life.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I’d love if I could actually carry a tune when singing. Not that I let my inability to stop me from doing it.
What is your current state of mind?
I’m so filled with excitement for all the Galway Pride Festival events this week. Seeing our community come together to organise these special events fills me with nothing but admiration.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Surviving the canvassing trail for the marriage referendum last year. That was a tough few months to be LGBT+ in Ireland, but it passed and we made it out the other side.
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what do you think it would be?
Come back as David Bowie, and bring a wave of calm to the world, as the place has fallen to pieces since he left.
What is your most treasured possession?
My laptop, I’m a totally tech addict and I’m unashamed.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Being lost in a crowd of strangers with body odour, and no phone battery, and I’m hungover… like public transport on a Sunday morning!
What is your favourite occupation?
My current job, where I currently do tech support from home. Acting like a professional, when really I’m working in a dressing gown - happy days!
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Their feminist ideology, and a clean-shaven face.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Their feminist ideology, and a mischievous smile.
Who are your favourite writers?
Laurie Penny, Bryan Lee O’Malley, and far too many bloggers to mention.
What is your motto?
“Fake it ‘til you make it”, because as cliched as it sounds, it can be what helps me get up some mornings.
