On Friday evening last 8th March, over 75 females from different walks of life came together for a celebratory and networking event in Anocht Restaurant, Kilkenny Design Centre as part of International Women’s Day. Organised by the Local Enterprise Office in conjunction with Bank of Ireland, Network Ireland Kilkenny and Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce the event celebrated the achievements of Kilkenny based women from varied backgrounds including international marketing, finance, creative industry and community.
“Making it Happen ” was the theme for event locally and the panel of speakers outlined how they have achieved success in their lives both personally and professionally. Liz Nolan the MC for the event introduced the panel of Siobhan O’Dwyer, Global Marketing Director, Kingspan and formerly 3sixty Marketing, Kilkenny; Marguerite Brosnan; Managing Director, Bank of Ireland Insurance Services & Director of Transformation, Noreen Murphy Co-founder Billy’s Tearooms Ballyhale and Yvonne Ross, Yvonne Ross Jewellers.
International Womens’ Day presents an opportunity to recognise and celebrate women’s achievements. The panel discussion provided inspiration to the audience and also highlighted the need to support females in achieving their goals. They spoke about the key influences and supports that have helped them achieve success. They also outlined the importance of having a mentor/sponsor; whether it be male or female to bounce your ideas and thoughts with. Balance for better is the global International Womens Day theme and it is not just a women’s issue. The panel spoke about how it is essential for both our communities and economies to thrive in the fast pacing modern world in which we live.
Fiona Deegan, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny said: “It is important for communities and business to have a diverse group and inclusive approach in order to achieve success nowadays. Events such as International Women’s Day offer females the opportunity to showcase their successes and it provides an opportunity to share viewpoints and provide inspiration to move forward and strive for success”.
A donation from the proceeds of the event was presented to representatives of the Board of Kilkenny Amber Women’s refuge on the night also.