Johnny McDowell

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT JOHNNY MCDOWELL

I\'m passionate about championing Northern Ireland’s incredible food and drink producers. Through Indie Füde, I’ve made it my mission to showcase the very best of what our local artisans have to offer. It’s been an honour to see that work recognised, especially receiving an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours.My journey has been shaped by community and resilience. After being diagnosed with cancer in 2012, I began working closely with Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, helping to support others facing similar challenges. That experience changed my outlook and deepened my commitment to making a difference through everything I do. At Indie Füde, I wear the hat of Chief Taster (a tough job, but someone has to do it!) and have had the privilege of judging at the World Cheese Awards. In 2022, I was named the Blas na hÉireann Producers\' Champion — a huge moment for me, as it\'s an award voted for by the very producers I’ve always tried to support. For me, food is about people. It’s about stories, passion, and place. Whether I’m curating shelves, running events, or visiting farms and kitchens, my goal is always the same — to connect people with the incredible talent we have right here at home.