Celestial Kilkenny Women Celebrate International Women's Day

Three inspiring local women guided by special guest MC Chupi Sweetman, addressed a large turnout at St Canice’s Cathedral as Network Ireland Kilkenny celebrated International Women’s Day.

The event, entitled Celestial Women: Brave, Nurturing, and Inclusive Leadership, took place on Wednesday, March 12, beneath the awe-inspiring touring artwork Museum of the Moon by Luke Jerram. The evening featured a fireside-chat-style format.
Chupi Sweetman is the founder of the Irish jewellery brand Chupi. Part of the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Alumni, Chupi is one of Ireland's leading female founders.

Chupi was joined by three accomplished local entrepreneurs, Denise Walsh, CEO of CurlyCo and Rustiq Salon; Dr Toluwani Akaehomen, a leadership, learning, and people development consultant; and Ella Dunphy, IPAV council member and director of DNG Ella Dunphy.

Caít Mackey Maher, of Yellow Deer Designs, Network Ireland Kilkenny President, said it was a very positive event. “Under the glow of the full moon at St Canice’s Cathedral, the energy in the room was palpable,” she said. “The evening was a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability, as our speakers shared honest stories of their light and dark moments. Their courage left us inspired and connected.

“As I reflect on the evening, I am grateful that Network Ireland Kilkenny continues to create spaces like this — where women are supported to thrive, share their light, and push their roles in employment and businesses forward. It’s not just about the work; it’s about finding harmony and showing up as we are. The power of this network lies in its ability to bring women together, to foster real connection and meaningful growth.

“I am so grateful to our incredible speakers for their honesty and to St Canice’s for providing such a magical setting. And a special thanks to LEO Kilkenny for their continued support — proof that when women come together, magic happens.”

Network Ireland is a voluntary-led business networking group with branches across Ireland that supports women's professional and personal development. It hosts regular monthly events and offers networking, mentoring, and advice, plus a social outlet and access to a national award scheme. Network Ireland Kilkenny is accepting new members.

For more information, visit www.networkireland.ie or follow @networkirelandkilkenny on Instagram.
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