Women in Business: Inspiring Journeys from Start-Up to Global Success

Hosted by Local Enterprise Office Clare, this inspiring event brings together international retail leader Breege O'Donoghue, award-winning entrepreneur Danilly Carvalho and business woman Denise O'Brien, to share their experiences of leadership, innovation, resilience, and business growth. Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect and network with women in business from across County Clare.

Guest Speaker Profiles

Breege Donoghue

Following 17 years in hospitality in Ireland and Europe, Breege continued her career with Primark and is a former Board Member & Group Director for Business Development & New Markets. After 37 years, ‘moving away from the day job’, Breege continued, until recently, with other interests in Primark. A graduate of UCD and a Chartered Director (IOD), Breege is currently Chair of a number of bodies in the public and private sector as well as being Non-Executive Director on the board of the Kylemore Trust. Breege has held many government appointed positions over the years and she has also been the recipient of fourteen awards in the UK, India and Ireland and the Chevalier of The Ordre National de la Legion d’Honneur in France.

Danilly Carvalho

Danilly Carvalho is the founder of IPERA, a natural skincare company based in County Clare, Ireland. Her journey began during the pandemic when she studied Nutrition and Health Coaching, developing a deep interest in herbal remedies, natural formulations, and skin health. Inspired by her mother's experience with perimenopause, Danilly created natural skincare products designed to support women's wellbeing. What started as a small project among friends and family evolved into a successful business through the New Frontiers entrepreneurship programme. Today, IPERA is an award-winning brand recognised for its innovative, natural skincare products, sustainable values, and commitment to quality Irish-made ingredients.

Denise O' Brien

Denise O'Brien is an award-winning businesswoman, leadership facilitator and Managing Director of O'Brien Learning Solutions. With over 20 years of experience in leadership, learning and organisational development, she helps businesses, public sector organisations and communities build confident leaders and high-performing teams. A passionate advocate for women in business, Denise champions connection, collaboration and lifelong learning. She serves as 2026 Vice President of Network Ireland Limerick, is a Board Director of Shannon Community Partnership and an SEC Mentor with Clare Local Development Company. Creator of the trademarked 3-S™ Model of Personal and Organisational Change, Denise is known for her engaging speaking style, practical insights and inspiring storytelling.