CELEBRATING LOUTH’S WOMEN IN ENTERPRISE

The Local Enterprise Office Louth was proud to sponsor the prestigious 2024 Network Louth Businesswoman of the Year awards, which took place at The Monasterboice Inn, Drogheda, on Friday night. This annual event, organised by Network Louth, honours the remarkable achievements of women in business, celebrating their talent, innovation, and dedication.

The evening was superbly hosted by Sinead Brassil, who kept the audience engaged and entertained throughout the event. Emma Jane Clarke of Martinstown Lodge delivered an inspiring keynote address. Her equine-centred coaching and leadership centre supports individuals in achieving their true potential, and her insights and experiences in the business world were motivational.

The awards ceremony featured four categories, each recognising outstanding contributions and achievements:

• The Award for Innovative Businesswoman was presented by Linda Codoul, Network Ireland National President, to Andrea McQuillan of Coppertops Digital Marketing. Andrea was praised by the judges for her agility and forward-thinking, which have significantly supported her clients' growth and potential.
• The Inspirational Businesswoman Award was presented by Brona Grogan, judge and Operations Director with Paycheck Plus, to Marina Branigan of Brava Virtual. The judges highlighted that Marina offers much more than one-to-one operations support for business owners; she creates space for connection, creativity, and collaboration.
• Our own Pamela Kerr, Senior Enterprise Development Officer at Local Enterprise Office Louth presented the Creative Brand Champion award to Caroline Duffy. Caroline, an artist and designer, has developed a stunning range of hand-painted floral silk dresses, kimonos, scarves, woven blankets, and art prints. Judges recognised her strong brand development, potential, and focus on sustainability.
• The final award of the night, Networker of the Year, was presented by AIB’s Sarah Boylan to Hanna McDonnell of Hanna McDonnell Marketing. The judges acknowledged Hanna's expertise in supporting business owners with effective marketing strategies. Her passion for networking and her embodiment of Network Ireland’s values on regional, national, and international levels were particularly noted.

Hanna McDonnell, as the winner of the Networker of the Year Award, will represent the Louth branch at the Network Ireland National Awards on 27th September at Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny.

Network Louth proudly partnered with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland for this event, with Noel Heeney of Tredagh Lodge representing the charity. This partnership underscores Network Louth's commitment to community support and vital causes.

As a branch of Network Ireland, Network Louth is dedicated to empowering women in business through networking, mentorship, and support. Their mission is to promote the personal and professional development of women in business and to celebrate their successes. To discover more about membership and how to join, visit www.networkireland.ie/Louth.