Network Kilkenny spotlight for International Women's Day

International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated across the world annually today (March 8) — a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

The day also marks a worldwide call to accelerate gender equality. To celebrate IWD this year, Network Ireland, established in 1983 to support the professional and personal development of women in Ireland, is hosting its national event, in Lyrath Estate Kilkenny. Lyrath Estate and Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office are co-sponsors of the International Women’s Day event, while AIB is Network Ireland’s official partner.

“Whether it’s juggling care demands or dealing with imposter syndrome, women sometimes need a little extra support in their careers,” said Local Network Ireland Kilkenny member and Network Ireland President Linda Codoul.

These sentiments resonate with the members of the local Network Ireland Kilkenny. Members report a lack of confidence, despite ample years of experience and poor access to affordable childcare as major barriers to the workplace for professional women.

Anne Healy

Membership is made up of a diverse group of women, from budding entrepreneurs, SME owners, professionals and leaders in indigenous and multinational organisations to non-profits, charities, arts and the public sector.

The thriving local Network Ireland Kilkenny boasts 60 professional women from across the county. The organisation offers an active schedule of events and workshops to support development and careers of its members.

“Network Ireland Kilkenny has been very instrumental in both my personal and professional growth,” said Network Ireland Kilkenny President, Anne Healy, owner of Biddy’s Good Luck Horse Shoes.

“It has given me the confidence to take my business to the next level. I would encourage any female who wants to advance their career to join Network Ireland Kilkenny to surround yourself with like-minded women who always have your back.”

One Network Ireland Kilkenny member of six years, Brigid Walsh, owner of Solar Evolution Ltd, told the Kilkenny People she joined the Network in Waterford and then moved to Kilkenny to set up her own business in 2021. Solar Evolution is a renewable energy company helping companies produce their own electricity.

“I find the Network a great sounding board,” she says.

“We share experiences and the challenges our companies are working to overcome. People are not afraid to voice and share opinions. I find the support you receive to be selfless from the ladies in within the network.”
Anne Healy (right), who stepped into the role of President of Network Ireland Kilkenny in January, has arranged an exciting calendar of events across 2024. Highlights among the schedule are ‘Financial Wellbeing’ on March 20th with Anne Doran at AIB, High Street.

April will see a fun and interactive workshop of quick wins for business owners in branding, traditional and social media with local businesses, K Hope Creative, Little Spark Media and PR Partners.

All upcoming events are open to both members and non-members alike and can be booked via the Network Ireland website.

“We are thrilled that one of the national flagship events will be hosted in County Kilkenny this year,” Anne says. “The International Women’s Day event is inspirational. You come away energised and ready for the next task! You come away with a change of mindset and confidence.

“The energy and buzz in the room is electric and tangible. It’s another great way to connect with people and expand your network.”

SPEAKERS
Among the speakers on the day are Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey from Kilkenny’s animation giant Cartoon Saloon, best-selling author of The Burnout Solution, Siobhán Murray MD, and Áine Ní Chaoildealbhain. Sports psychologist Dr Ciara Losty will draw on her experience working with Olympians for peak performance.

Network Ireland Kilkenny is accepting new members - visit www.networkireland.ie for more information.