ENTREPRENEURS OF CORK
Opening
Welcome to the captivating world of Cork City's Entrepreneurs!
Through a series of compelling videos, we bring you closer to these remarkable entrepreneurs as they share their journeys of transforming their dreams into thriving businesses.
What's more, the entrepreneurs will delve into how they engaged with us, the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City, and the role we played in their success stories. Join us on this incredible voyage of discovery as we celebrate the Entrepreneurs of Cork City and their flourishing businesses.
Five minute read.
Anita Siegl
Meet Anita Siegl, the founder of both WorkplaceWellbeing and Happy Feet Reflexology, who has broken barriers with stress management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation.
With her notable qualifications and achievements, such as an ITEC level 5 in reflexology, Anita brings a remarkable level of expertise to her practice.
Formulated in 2019, WorkplaceWellbeing.ie is the newest branch of Happy Feet Reflexology. It initially catered to the needs of full-time working individuals in Cork, however over time they have expanded their services beyond borders, offering online and on-site services, workshops and webinars globally.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0mrNJorIjz/?igsh=ZDE1MWVjZGVmZQ==
Brigid Farrell
Meet Brigid Farell, the director of the network AllTalk Training.
AllTalk Training takes a practical approach when it comes to improving communication in Multicultural workplaces where there is one company language (usually English) individuals from different language and cultural backgrounds may feel that the burden to understand and to be understood, rests with them.
Brigid established AllTalk Training to “help business leaders and professionals break down any language and cultural obstacles they may be faced with so that their voice is clear, confident and respectful.
At AllTalk Training, they are deeply committed to bridging language barriers in the corporate world. It is designed to empower professionals who do not speak English as their first language, ensuring they have the communication skills necessary to excel in the global business arena.
Brigid reflects on the invaluable support and resources provided by the Local Enterprise Cork City. The courses attended by members of AllTalk Training have allowed the company to extend their reach and effectiveness.
To watch the video, click the link below:
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7140687634250506240
Eimear O’Brien
Meet Eimear O’Brien. Eimear founded her company, Lunasa PR, way back in 2005, with the principles of creating a boutique agency with big ideas.
Lunasa Pr is a prime example of ensuring experience, expertise and success is reflected in their clients. The exemplary agency, located in White Cross, Cork, has over 15 years experience working in Public Relations and marketing in Ireland.
From widespread engagement with festivals and large events to operating as a bilingual company, Lunasa Pr has indisputably grown its business over the years into a thriving service for all.
Thank you Eimear for sharing your story with us yesterday at The Montenotte and the help you’ve received from Leo Cork City over the years 🙌 Stay tuned as we publish more stories from the Entrepreneurs that make up Cork City’s thriving business communities.
Watch the full video here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7136330797057236992
Nicole Butler
Meet Nicole Butler Personal Trainer, the founder of Base Health & Fitness. From a young age, Nicole was drawn to fitness. She has earned numerous accolades in Taekwondo, from which she retired with a world ranking of 3rd.
The discipline and consistency inherent in martial arts and sports provided Nicole with valuable lessons in her youth. These principles now form the cornerstone of her approach to coaching and serve as the foundation of her business.
After successfully studying Recreation and Leisure Management in Coláiste Stiofan Naofa in Cork City, she procured a first class Honors degree in Exercise and Health fitness at UL.
With the knowledge of sports psychology, nutrition, business management, swim coaching etc, Nicole left her mark in numerous personal trainer and instructor roles around Cork. So much so that, in 2015, it was time for Nicole to broaden her horizons and move to New Zealand to get a more global experience in the fitness industry.
From 2016-2019, Nicole moved back to Cork, working and learning more in one of Cork's leading gyms, Dennehys Health & Fitness, before making the jump to Australia, where she opened up her own business in Melbourne.
“This is where I was again mentored in how to run a well-established business in a highly competitive market”.
In 2020, Nicole moved home for a second and final time, with a global online client base in Ireland, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Together, Nicole and her sister Aidean have grown the business to what it is today, BASE Fitness & Health.
Base is an establishment that listens to what the client wants and they explain the ‘why’ behind training
“We understand how hard it can be to step foot in the gym […] We support you every step of the way.”
Thank you Nicole for taking the time to sit down and speak to us about your company, Base, at last week’s event in The Montenotte Hotel.
Watch the full video here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7137837203992264704
Andrew Scannell
Meet Andrew Scannell, one of the Co- Founders of Clinks.ie, along with Regina Cremin Scannell.
Upon returning home from Australia to Ireland after 11 years, Andrew was surprised at the absence of an on-demand alcohol sales and delivery service. This is a clear phenomenon taking place in Australia and the USA, and the Scannells decided to establish this in Ireland.
Using their expertise in Sales, Marketing, and Tech, they decided to establish Clinks, Ireland’s rapidly growing drinks delivery service.
Andrew additionally turned to the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City, and has received grants to help him further establish his brand. Andrew reflects on his time with LEO Cork City stating their mentoring is nothing but commendable.
Thank you Andrew for taking part in the series.
Click the link to watch the video: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7143527483999481856
Lynda Di Blasi
Meet Lynda Di Blasi, the creator of LyndaDiBlasi.com, who is a Personal Stylist and Personal Shopper based in Cork.
After completing her training with Joan Cashman Style Academy, Lynda set up her own personal stylist and wardrobe edit service.
Lynda takes pride in helping men and women look confident and stylish in their clothes. She is a firm believer in using clothes and fashion to boost an individual's self esteem and achieve a positive attitude towards themselves.
In addition to taking style and decluttering courses, Lynda turned to the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City, and completed mentoring courses to further her achievements.
Thank you Lynda for filming this short introduction with us in The Montenotte Hotel.
Click here to watch the full video: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7147948399034527745
Andrew Whitaker
Introducing Andrew Whitaker, a driven and determined entrepreneur, the visionary behind Culture Co Working.
Culture Co Working isn't just your ordinary workspace; it's a vibrant, collaborative hub designed to cater to the needs of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. Here, the ethos revolves around cultivating innovation, nurturing creativity, and fostering a strong sense of community.
Rewind to 2017, when Andrew embarked on a mission to discover the ideal office space, meticulously considering factors like accessibility, amenities, and the overall ambiance. His dedication knew no bounds as he passionately undertook the task of bringing this innovative environment to life.
Curious to hear more about Andrew's journey and the invaluable support from the Local Enterprise Office of Cork City?
Click on the video to delve into the inspiring story of Culture Co-Working.
https://shorturl.at/bzJT9
Vereena Harrington and Noreen Roche
Meet Vereena and Noreen, two astute women leading their own businesses.
With her Indian ancestry matched with her African childhood memories, Naveena Harrington passionately set out to create distinctive jewelry which resembles the colors and textures of places she has been. Thus, Colour Addict Jewellery was born
Having originally established her business in Singapore, Naveena has since based her thriving company in Cork.
With a fully merited Dabeers award, Naveena has additionally worked with the Local Enterprise Office Cork City in flourishing her business. Naveena reflects on a recent LEO event she attended, expressing the sense of entrepreneurial community she encountered.
Noreen Roche opened the gates of her Retreat Centre, following the passing of her sister from Cancer, seeing it as a spiritual breakthrough.
Noreen saw the potential of Epona Retreat Centre as a guide to self discovery and claiming your own destiny. With her 3 therapy horses, she teaches visitors to support and love themselves without expecting to be loved back.
On top of her studies in Reiki Master Teaching, Equine Therapy Energy Healing along with so much more, Noreen has worked with the Local Enterprise Office Cork City in pushing the boundaries of her business!
Closing:
We cannot help but reflect on the incredible privilege it has been to support the entrepreneurs of Cork City in their business endeavors.
Working alongside these dedicated entrepreneurs has been an inspiring experience, and we are truly delighted to have played a role in their success stories. Witnessing their businesses thrive and flourish has been immensely rewarding.
These videos have not only showcased their products and services but have also revealed the human stories behind the businesses, adding depth and authenticity to their brands.
Through these videos, we have celebrated the diversity of ideas, the resilience in the face of challenges, and the unwavering spirit of entrepreneurship that defines Cork City.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the entrepreneurs who trusted us with their brands and how wonderful it is to be able to share their business stories.
We also extend our thanks to the entire Cork City community for their support and encouragement throughout this journey, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in the years to come.
Paddy White
Meet Paddy White, the creator of the wedding brand Now&Forever.
Together with his wife and Co-Worker Jan, he runs a business all about Irish Wedding Invitations and designs, prints, cuts, folds, glues, glitters, tapes and staples those individually designed for their customers.
After over 12 years of graphic design experience, he loves creating new design ideas for their wedding stationery but also getting brides and grooms input to work with them to create their new ideas. They just recently created their first scratch ‘save the date’-card and it allows guests to reveal the date of the couple's big day in another way than usual.
He’s working day and night, designing and printing the stationery during the day and folding, collating and stapling the likes of their 12-16 page wedding ceremony mass booklets with the production team at night time. Also packaging orders and handwriting guests names to relieve the busy couples takes some time.
Not only the business keeps them busy but also their two children. They always try to take turns looking after them to allow them both to get some quality time with them. It’s a bit like a family business where the kids already try to help and the parents take into consideration that their children might also want to get into this kind of job.
Deaf Enterprises
- Ireland’s only dedicated employer of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community
- founded in 1987 by Fr. Bill Clarke
- Their charity was set up to tackle the high rates of unemployment among Cork’s deaf community
- has subsequently grown throughout its history to provide training and placement opportunities
- proud part of Cork’s deaf community for over 30 years
- 4 eu horizon projects successfully completed: Furniture Manufacturing, Motor School for deaf people, Ten sign-language interpreters and three tutors trained to Diploma level, and Jobnet Consortium - participation of disabled people in the workforce
History:
- launched workshop in 1988
- received training approval from FAS, and charitable status and incorporation as a limited company in 1989
- over 100 deaf people have taken part in the employment, training and work experience initiatives of the company
Deaf Enterprises
Introducing Deaf Enterprises, Ireland’s only dedicated employer of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community that was founded in 1987 by Fr. Bill Clarke.
That charity was first set up to tackle the high rates of unemployment among Cork’s deaf community and has eventually subsequently grown throughout its history to provide training and placement opportunities. Nowadays it’s a proud part of Cork’s deaf community for over 30 years.
They even successfully completed 4 EU Horizon projects, among other things a Motor School for deaf people and Furniture Manufacturing.
The workshop got launched in 1988 and they received training approval from FAS and a charitable status as a limited company in 1989.
Deaf enterprises already supported over 30 years and they’ve taken part in the employment, training and work experience initiatives off the company. In 1989, a new showroom and in 2000 new offices got opened.
ENTREPRENEURS OF CORK
Opening
Welcome to the captivating world of Cork City's Entrepreneurs!
Through a series of compelling videos, we bring you closer to these remarkable entrepreneurs as they share their journeys of transforming their dreams into thriving businesses.
What's more, the entrepreneurs will delve into how they engaged with us, the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City, and the role we played in their success stories. Join us on this incredible voyage of discovery as we celebrate the Entrepreneurs of Cork City and their flourishing businesses.
Five minute read.
Anita Siegl
Meet Anita Siegl, the founder of both WorkplaceWellbeing and Happy Feet Reflexology, who has broken barriers with stress management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation.
With her notable qualifications and achievements, such as an ITEC level 5 in reflexology, Anita brings a remarkable level of expertise to her practice.
Formulated in 2019, WorkplaceWellbeing.ie is the newest branch of Happy Feet Reflexology. It initially catered to the needs of full-time working individuals in Cork, however over time they have expanded their services beyond borders, offering online and on-site services, workshops and webinars globally.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0mrNJorIjz/?igsh=ZDE1MWVjZGVmZQ==
Brigid Farrell
Meet Brigid Farell, the director of the network AllTalk Training.
AllTalk Training takes a practical approach when it comes to improving communication in Multicultural workplaces where there is one company language (usually English) individuals from different language and cultural backgrounds may feel that the burden to understand and to be understood, rests with them.
Brigid established AllTalk Training to “help business leaders and professionals break down any language and cultural obstacles they may be faced with so that their voice is clear, confident and respectful.
At AllTalk Training, they are deeply committed to bridging language barriers in the corporate world. It is designed to empower professionals who do not speak English as their first language, ensuring they have the communication skills necessary to excel in the global business arena.
Brigid reflects on the invaluable support and resources provided by the Local Enterprise Cork City. The courses attended by members of AllTalk Training have allowed the company to extend their reach and effectiveness.
To watch the video, click the link below:
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7140687634250506240
Eimear O’Brien
Meet Eimear O’Brien. Eimear founded her company, Lunasa PR, way back in 2005, with the principles of creating a boutique agency with big ideas.
Lunasa Pr is a prime example of ensuring experience, expertise and success is reflected in their clients. The exemplary agency, located in White Cross, Cork, has over 15 years experience working in Public Relations and marketing in Ireland.
From widespread engagement with festivals and large events to operating as a bilingual company, Lunasa Pr has indisputably grown its business over the years into a thriving service for all.
Thank you Eimear for sharing your story with us yesterday at The Montenotte and the help you’ve received from Leo Cork City over the years 🙌 Stay tuned as we publish more stories from the Entrepreneurs that make up Cork City’s thriving business communities.
Watch the full video here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7136330797057236992
Nicole Butler
Meet Nicole Butler Personal Trainer, the founder of Base Health & Fitness. From a young age, Nicole was drawn to fitness. She has earned numerous accolades in Taekwondo, from which she retired with a world ranking of 3rd.
The discipline and consistency inherent in martial arts and sports provided Nicole with valuable lessons in her youth. These principles now form the cornerstone of her approach to coaching and serve as the foundation of her business.
After successfully studying Recreation and Leisure Management in Coláiste Stiofan Naofa in Cork City, she procured a first class Honors degree in Exercise and Health fitness at UL.
With the knowledge of sports psychology, nutrition, business management, swim coaching etc, Nicole left her mark in numerous personal trainer and instructor roles around Cork. So much so that, in 2015, it was time for Nicole to broaden her horizons and move to New Zealand to get a more global experience in the fitness industry.
From 2016-2019, Nicole moved back to Cork, working and learning more in one of Cork's leading gyms, Dennehys Health & Fitness, before making the jump to Australia, where she opened up her own business in Melbourne.
“This is where I was again mentored in how to run a well-established business in a highly competitive market”.
In 2020, Nicole moved home for a second and final time, with a global online client base in Ireland, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Together, Nicole and her sister Aidean have grown the business to what it is today, BASE Fitness & Health.
Base is an establishment that listens to what the client wants and they explain the ‘why’ behind training
“We understand how hard it can be to step foot in the gym […] We support you every step of the way.”
Thank you Nicole for taking the time to sit down and speak to us about your company, Base, at last week’s event in The Montenotte Hotel.
Watch the full video here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7137837203992264704
Andrew Scannell
Meet Andrew Scannell, one of the Co- Founders of Clinks.ie, along with Regina Cremin Scannell.
Upon returning home from Australia to Ireland after 11 years, Andrew was surprised at the absence of an on-demand alcohol sales and delivery service. This is a clear phenomenon taking place in Australia and the USA, and the Scannells decided to establish this in Ireland.
Using their expertise in Sales, Marketing, and Tech, they decided to establish Clinks, Ireland’s rapidly growing drinks delivery service.
Andrew additionally turned to the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City, and has received grants to help him further establish his brand. Andrew reflects on his time with LEO Cork City stating their mentoring is nothing but commendable.
Thank you Andrew for taking part in the series.
Click the link to watch the video: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7143527483999481856
Lynda Di Blasi
Meet Lynda Di Blasi, the creator of LyndaDiBlasi.com, who is a Personal Stylist and Personal Shopper based in Cork.
After completing her training with Joan Cashman Style Academy, Lynda set up her own personal stylist and wardrobe edit service.
Lynda takes pride in helping men and women look confident and stylish in their clothes. She is a firm believer in using clothes and fashion to boost an individual's self esteem and achieve a positive attitude towards themselves.
In addition to taking style and decluttering courses, Lynda turned to the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City, and completed mentoring courses to further her achievements.
Thank you Lynda for filming this short introduction with us in The Montenotte Hotel.
Click here to watch the full video: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7147948399034527745
Andrew Whitaker
Introducing Andrew Whitaker, a driven and determined entrepreneur, the visionary behind Culture Co Working.
Culture Co Working isn't just your ordinary workspace; it's a vibrant, collaborative hub designed to cater to the needs of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. Here, the ethos revolves around cultivating innovation, nurturing creativity, and fostering a strong sense of community.
Rewind to 2017, when Andrew embarked on a mission to discover the ideal office space, meticulously considering factors like accessibility, amenities, and the overall ambiance. His dedication knew no bounds as he passionately undertook the task of bringing this innovative environment to life.
Curious to hear more about Andrew's journey and the invaluable support from the Local Enterprise Office of Cork City?
Click on the video to delve into the inspiring story of Culture Co-Working.
https://shorturl.at/bzJT9
Vereena Harrington and Noreen Roche
Meet Vereena and Noreen, two astute women leading their own businesses.
With her Indian ancestry matched with her African childhood memories, Naveena Harrington passionately set out to create distinctive jewelry which resembles the colors and textures of places she has been. Thus, Colour Addict Jewellery was born
Having originally established her business in Singapore, Naveena has since based her thriving company in Cork.
With a fully merited Dabeers award, Naveena has additionally worked with the Local Enterprise Office Cork City in flourishing her business. Naveena reflects on a recent LEO event she attended, expressing the sense of entrepreneurial community she encountered.
Noreen Roche opened the gates of her Retreat Centre, following the passing of her sister from Cancer, seeing it as a spiritual breakthrough.
Noreen saw the potential of Epona Retreat Centre as a guide to self discovery and claiming your own destiny. With her 3 therapy horses, she teaches visitors to support and love themselves without expecting to be loved back.
On top of her studies in Reiki Master Teaching, Equine Therapy Energy Healing along with so much more, Noreen has worked with the Local Enterprise Office Cork City in pushing the boundaries of her business!
Closing:
We cannot help but reflect on the incredible privilege it has been to support the entrepreneurs of Cork City in their business endeavors.
Working alongside these dedicated entrepreneurs has been an inspiring experience, and we are truly delighted to have played a role in their success stories. Witnessing their businesses thrive and flourish has been immensely rewarding.
These videos have not only showcased their products and services but have also revealed the human stories behind the businesses, adding depth and authenticity to their brands.
Through these videos, we have celebrated the diversity of ideas, the resilience in the face of challenges, and the unwavering spirit of entrepreneurship that defines Cork City.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the entrepreneurs who trusted us with their brands and how wonderful it is to be able to share their business stories.
We also extend our thanks to the entire Cork City community for their support and encouragement throughout this journey, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in the years to come.
Paddy White
Meet Paddy White, the creator of the wedding brand Now&Forever.
Together with his wife and Co-Worker Jan, he runs a business all about Irish Wedding Invitations and designs, prints, cuts, folds, glues, glitters, tapes and staples those individually designed for their customers.
After over 12 years of graphic design experience, he loves creating new design ideas for their wedding stationery but also getting brides and grooms input to work with them to create their new ideas. They just recently created their first scratch ‘save the date’-card and it allows guests to reveal the date of the couple's big day in another way than usual.
He’s working day and night, designing and printing the stationery during the day and folding, collating and stapling the likes of their 12-16 page wedding ceremony mass booklets with the production team at night time. Also packaging orders and handwriting guests names to relieve the busy couples takes some time.
Not only the business keeps them busy but also their two children. They always try to take turns looking after them to allow them both to get some quality time with them. It’s a bit like a family business where the kids already try to help and the parents take into consideration that their children might also want to get into this kind of job.
Deaf Enterprises
- Ireland’s only dedicated employer of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community
- founded in 1987 by Fr. Bill Clarke
- Their charity was set up to tackle the high rates of unemployment among Cork’s deaf community
- has subsequently grown throughout its history to provide training and placement opportunities
- proud part of Cork’s deaf community for over 30 years
- 4 eu horizon projects successfully completed: Furniture Manufacturing, Motor School for deaf people, Ten sign-language interpreters and three tutors trained to Diploma level, and Jobnet Consortium - participation of disabled people in the workforce
History:
- launched workshop in 1988
- received training approval from FAS, and charitable status and incorporation as a limited company in 1989
- over 100 deaf people have taken part in the employment, training and work experience initiatives of the company
Deaf Enterprises
Introducing Deaf Enterprises, Ireland’s only dedicated employer of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community that was founded in 1987 by Fr. Bill Clarke.
That charity was first set up to tackle the high rates of unemployment among Cork’s deaf community and has eventually subsequently grown throughout its history to provide training and placement opportunities. Nowadays it’s a proud part of Cork’s deaf community for over 30 years.
They even successfully completed 4 EU Horizon projects, among other things a Motor School for deaf people and Furniture Manufacturing.
The workshop got launched in 1988 and they received training approval from FAS and a charitable status as a limited company in 1989.
Deaf enterprises already supported over 30 years and they’ve taken part in the employment, training and work experience initiatives off the company. In 1989, a new showroom and in 2000 new offices got opened.
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