A Loughmacrory man with a social media following of over 180,000 has described speaking at this year’s Omagh Pride as a pivotal moment in a decade-long journey of self-acceptance. Cathair Curran, who posts under the name Kegs, addressed the event in front of an audience that included his parents and boyfriend.

Curran said growing up he often felt he could not be himself in Tyrone. He recalled being punched at a primary school disco for being perceived as too feminine, and consciously altering his movements to avoid teasing. Attempts to fit into what he called a straight lifestyle led to depression, he told the gathering.

A decade ago he left Northern Ireland at the earliest opportunity. At that time his relationship with his parents was strained and he disliked the place. Since returning, he said those relationships have never been better and he now feels at home in Tyrone.

After leaving school he worked in Cyprus promoting events, later moving to Belfast for an apprenticeship and part-time university study. He lost both due to what he described as excessive partying and mental health struggles, although he now regards those setbacks as a turning point.

His subsequent travels took him to Magaluf, Australia, Miami and Ibiza. He recalled a sunrise in Ibiza in 2019 when he felt an overwhelming sense of joy and acceptance while dancing with friends. It was, he said, the first time he truly felt able to be himself around people who loved him for who he was.

A diagnosis of ADHD later helped him understand his relationship with alcohol. He decided to stop drinking in September 2024 following a summer of festivals and non-stop socialising. While he does not rule out drinking again, he said it is highly unlikely in the near term.

Curran, now based in Dublin, continues to share lifestyle and travel content with his online audience.