Aspire Media N.I. CIC Recognised with Rising Phoenix Award for Creative Media Storytelling

Aspire Media N.I. CIC has been honoured with the prestigious Rising Phoenix Award for Creative Media Storytelling, recognising the organisation’s commitment to using media, education and digital innovation to create meaningful social impact across Northern Ireland.

Founded in 2022 by Robert Campbell and Andy Cooper, Aspire Media N.I. CIC was established with a clear vision: to empower businesses, organisations and communities through creativity, education and professional media services. What began as a community-focused media initiative has grown into a thriving social enterprise dedicated to helping people tell their stories and amplify their impact.

Operating under the banner “One Vision. Creating Positive Media for All,” Aspire Media delivers its work through four interconnected platforms: Aspire Media Studios, Inspire Social Co., Aspire Media Academy and Aspire Media TV. Together, these initiatives support the organisation’s mission of empowering communities through media, education and creativity.

Reflecting on what drives the organisation forward, Robert Campbell, Co-Founder and Operations Director, said:

“What motivates me is knowing that the work we do has the potential to create opportunities and make a lasting difference in people’s lives. As a social enterprise, Aspire Media N.I. CIC was founded on the belief that media should do more than simply promote a business or tell a story. It should educate, empower, inspire and strengthen communities.”

Like many social enterprises, Aspire Media faced significant challenges in balancing commercial sustainability with its social mission. Through resilience, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement, the organisation has continued to grow while remaining focused on creating positive community impact.

Co-Founder and Creative Director Andy Cooper added:

“Over the years I’ve worked in a number of jobs and no matter how trivial or menial the job was, I always strived to do my best at whatever the job is. What people see in you can inspire someone else to do the same.”

The Rising Phoenix Award represents an important milestone in Aspire Media’s journey. The recognition reflects not only the achievements of the organisation but also the dedication of its volunteers, learners, clients, partners and supporters who have contributed to its continued growth and success.

Over the years, Aspire Media has achieved several notable milestones, including establishing Aspire Media Academy as an OCN NI Accredited Training Centre, expanding Aspire Media Studios into a trusted provider of professional media services, developing Inspire Social Co. to support businesses and charities, and creating Aspire Media TV as a platform dedicated to positive storytelling and community engagement.

Looking to the future, Aspire Media N.I. CIC plans to continue expanding its services, creating additional learning opportunities, supporting more businesses and community organisations, and further developing platforms that amplify positive stories from across Northern Ireland.

Commenting on the award, the co-founders said:

“Aspire Media N.I. CIC was founded on the belief that media should do more than simply communicate; it should educate, empower, inspire and create opportunities. The Rising Phoenix Award is recognition not only of our journey but of the incredible people, organisations and communities who have supported us and continue to inspire us every day.”

For more information about Aspire Media N.I. CIC and its services, visit www.aspiremedia.studio.

Media Contact

Robert Campbell
Co-Founder & Operations Director

Andy Cooper
Co-Founder & Creative Director

Telephone: +44 (28) 7010 3116
Email: hello@aspiremedia.studio
Website: www.aspiremedia.studio