Gemma Hayes: 'I have said no to amazing opportunities feeling I wasn't worthy or capable.'

‘I constantly have to talk to myself and go; ‘you're okay. You can do this — even if you mess up, it's okay.’

Gemma Hayes. Credit: Rich Gilligan

I grew up on the outskirts of Ballyporeen in Tipperary. I was the youngest of eight; six girls and two boys.

There was so much freedom — I had a bit of a wild childhood — in the best possible way.