Local Network Ireland group hosts Women's Day event in Athlone
The energy was palpable, the stories were powerful, and the inspiration was boundless as Network Ireland Roscommon, in collaboration with Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Roscommon, hosted an uplifting celebration of International Women’s Day and the conclusion of Roscommon Enterprise Week on Friday, March 7.
Attendees at the event in the Hodson Bay Hotel gathered to embrace the theme of the day, chosen by Network Ireland Roscommon president Clare Frances Faissal, of 'Mindset Driven Success'. This set the tone for a gathering characterised by motivation, resilience, and empowerment.
From the moment guests arrived, they were welcomed with an opportunity to network over tea, coffee, and biscuits while exploring business displays of Network Ireland members.
One of the highlights of the day was a panel discussion, moderated by Clare Frances Faissal, featuring four remarkable businesswomen: Lucy Carty (Eden Skin and Laser Clinic Roscommon), Catherine O’Connor (Health 2 Your Wealth Institute Westmeath), Dr. Loubna Alghazal (Keystone Periodontics Longford), and Cathriona Hodgins (Nutrition Westmeath).
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Eilish O’Rourke from Sensing Moments pictured during her ‘Balance, Breathe, and Thrive’ workshop at the Network Ireland Roscommon and LEO Roscommon event in the Hodson Bay Hotel.Image 2 of 2
Athlone Community College was represented at the recent International Women’s Day event hosted by Network Ireland Roscommon. Pictured is teacher Olive Whyte and students Ava Monaghan and Leah Maguire.The four speakers discussed the mindset shifts that led them to personal and professional triumphs in their journey of business.
This discussion was then followed by a charity raffle in support of Childhood Cancer Ireland, with generous contributions from attendees. Laura Cullinan, CEO of Childhood Cancer Ireland, spoke about the journey of her daughter, Isobel, as a cancer survivor. The day also marked the anniversary of Laura's little girl beginning her childhood cancer journey, which changed everything for her and the entire family.
In an emotional moment, Laura showed Isobel’s beads of courage, which were metres long, with each bead representing a milestone along her unique treatment path and to demonstrate the courage that she has shown during these milestones.
A truly captivating moment came with the keynote address by Sharon Keegan, renowned entrepreneur and ‘Dragon’s Den’ success story. Her journey of overcoming challenges, making strategic pivots, and building her business, Peachylean, resonated deeply with the audience, leaving them inspired, empowered, and not afraid of failure.
After lunch, attendees dived into the transformative 'Balance, Breathe, and Thrive' workshop led by Eilish O'Rourke. This session encouraged mindfulness and balance in the fast-paced world of business and entrepreneurship.
A particularly special aspect of this year’s gathering was the invitation extended to two Transition Year (TY) students and their principal/teacher, from each county, ensuring that the next generation of young women had the opportunity to witness the power of Network Ireland Roscommon firsthand.
Students from Athlone Community College attended and expressed how much they enjoyed the event, describing it as "uplifting, educational, and truly inspiring," and they shared their enthusiasm for attending similar events in the future
As President Clare Frances Faissal noted, "The response from all attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how moved they were by the powerful stories shared."
Network Ireland Roscommon continues to provide a platform for female entrepreneurs and professionals to connect, learn, and grow, and this International Women’s Day celebration was no exception.
LEO Roscommon also offers a huge support to women in business and organises many free seminars and mentors to help women on their entrepreneurial journeys.