Carlow County invited to come together to celebrate International Women’s Day

Carlow County invited to come together to celebrate International Women’s Day

Carlow County invited to come together to celebrate International Women’s Day

Carlow County Council and its Local Enterprise Office, Powerhouse Women in Business Network, County Carlow Chamber, South East Technological University (SETU) and Carlow County Development Partnership are leading advocates for women's empowerment, are excited to announce its upcoming International Women's Day event on March 8, 2024. This event aims to celebrate the achievements of women globally, foster gender equality, and inspire individuals to actively contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world.

The lunch panel event will start at 11.45am in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel with a welcome by Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor & Co-ordinator of Powerhouse Network. The highlight of event includes a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Shona Lyons, featuring esteemed speakers such as Cllr. Andrea Dalton, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council; Jolly O'Rock, Carlow African Support Group and AHA Storytellers community educator; Dr Eileen Doyle Walsh, Head of the faculty of Business and Humanities; Annette Fox, CEO of Carlow County Development Partnership; Emma Butler, Award-winning Interior Designer and Project Manager; and Faith Amond, Fashion Expert and Age Friendly Ambassador. The panel will delve into insightful conversations on Inspire Inclusion, offering diverse perspectives from accomplished women in various fields. The event will conclude with closing comments by Rowena Dooley, President of County Carlow Chamber which will be followed by lunch.

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. IWD 2024 campaign theme is Inspire Inclusion. Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #InspireInclusion.

Hosting the event , Cllr. Andrea Dalton, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council said "In the tapestry of business and community, the strength of women supporting each other weaves a narrative of empowerment and success. United, we amplify our voices, break barriers, and shatter glass ceilings. When women lift one another, it's not just a gesture; it's a powerful force that transforms challenges into opportunities, fosters resilience, and paves the way for a future where every woman's triumph is a collective victory.". The Cathaoirleach said the event was open to all and looked forward to welcoming all to the event”.

Commenting on the importance of supporting Women in Business, Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office in Carlow County Council  said  “In our experience with the Powerhouse Women in Business Network, County Council is a dynamic landscape of business, women networking isn't just a transaction; it's a transformation. It bridges gaps, sparks collaborations, and fosters a community where collective wisdom propels individual success.”.

Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office, Sarah Byrne said “We look forward to hearing this dynamic panel who represent both community and business. In the realm of leadership, gender should never dictate ambition. Breaking through the perceived barriers that deter women from stepping up is not just a stride towards equality; it's a seismic shift in the paradigm of progress. True leadership in business and community arises when every voice, regardless of gender, is empowered to rise above preconceived limitations”.

The event is free of charge and further information can be found on www.localenterprise.ie/carlow or by calling 059/9129783