Photo: LEO Westmeath clients with staff Catriona Duffy (Business Advisor LEO Westmeath), Irene Lynch (Economic Development Officer LEO Westmeath), Christine Charlton (Head of Enterprise LEO Westmeath) and An Cathaoirleach Cllr Aofie Davitt.

OVER 100 WOMEN IN BUSINESS ATTEND TRI COUNTY EVENT TO MARK INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2026

Women in business from Westmeath, Leitrim and Longford gathered in the Castle Varagh Hotel, Castlepollard on 6 March to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 hosted by the Local Enterprise Offices.

The event was opened by MC Allyson English of The Mody Collective, who welcomed attendees and introduced An Cathaoirleach Cllr Aoife Davitt.  Cllr Davitt spoke about the importance of small businesses, participating in local events and building strong networks within the business community while encouraging businesses to engage with their Local Enterprise Offices for support.  

Guest Speaker Catherine Kiveney of TheHen.ie, TeamBuildingIreland.ie and Loughnavalleycottages.ie gave an inspirational address on her entrepreneurial journey, the realities of business growth and the importance of building strong foundations behind creative ideas.

County speakers Elaine Bradley Ryan (Ideation Marketing Co Westmeath), Carol McGowan (Heartfelt Gifts, Co Leitrim) and Áine Farrell (Áine’s Fashion & Lingerie Co Longford) shared their business and career stories.  Each highlighted the value of having a supportive team and the ability to adapt to ever-changing business challenges.

A dedicated networking session allowed attendees to connect, exchange business information and discuss the supports they currently need to grow or sustain their enterprises.

This was followed by a panel discussion with our speakers featuring the speakers, covering topics such as self-employment, available supports and practical advice on the do’s and don’ts of running a business.  The event was fully booked with over 100 enthusiastic women inspiring and learning from one another.   

Christine Charlton, Head of Enterprise LEO Westmeath delivered the closing address, thanking all in attendance and encouraging continued collaboration and support long after the event. 

One attendee said “It was a fantastic day from start to finish.  Allyson was exceptional as MC, the speakers were truly inspiring and hearing their stories helped quieten my own imposter syndrome.  The venue and meal were excellent and the event was so well organized.  I’m already looking forward to the next one”.

The event concluded with door prizes sponsored by each Local Enterprise Office, celebrating some of the region’s outstanding small businesses.  Lunch was served by the excellent team at the Castle Varagh Hotel who provided warm hospitality throughout the event.

LEO Westmeath, LEO Leitrim and LEO Longford extend their sincere thanks to all who attended and contributed to making the Tri-County International Women’s Day event such a success.   

Save the date for our next Women In Business event on Thursday 21 May 2026 in Co Leitrim with more details to follow.

For further information on the Women in Business Network and future Women-In-Business events, please contact Catriona Duffy at Local Enterprise Office, Westmeath.