On March 8th, Network Ireland Wicklow hosted an event to celebrate International Women’s Day at Tinakilly House Hotel. Over 70 female businesswomen from Wicklow and surrounding counties attended the event, which was a huge success.
The proceedings were hosted by Joanne Costello, the Wicklow Branch President, and guests were treated to a champagne reception. They also had the opportunity to browse and purchase products from branch members companies, Care Box Collection, Artist Katrina Shine Of Gallery No.5, Ethos Beauty & Wellness, Lolli & Mo, Gabrielle’s cards & printing, SOL products, and Pretty Woman Boutiques Nilai jewellery collection, which were on display. Network Ireland Wicklow’s charity partner, Suzanne House, was also in attendance, and Rosin McGarry (Clinical Nurse Manager) and Fiona Duffy (Parent) from Suzanne House spoke about their organisation’s mission and the need for respite for families with children with life-limiting conditions and complex medical needs.
The highlight of the event was the presentation by two expert speakers, Vibeke Delahunt, Head of Enterprise, Wicklow LEO, and Valerie Lynch, Data Science Manager at the ESB. Vibeke spoke about the range of business supports available for micro-enterprises and sole traders through the Local Enterprise Office Wicklow, while Valerie shared her expertise in establishing an Ethical AI strategy in ESB. Valerie’s presentation gave a short overview of what ChatGPT is, followed by its potential impact on various industries. She also discussed the ethical and societal implications of ChatGPT, and what the future may hold for this rapidly evolving technology.
Guests were treated to a sumptuous meal followed by a S/S23 fashion show featuring looks from female-owned independent boutiques Pretty Woman, Ebony, Fishers, Tonic, Ashanti Gold, Juju, Shapemoda, and Eclipse boutique, worn by models from Assets agency. Even some of the Wicklow branch members walked in the show, adding to the event’s already great atmosphere.
Jean, the owner of Desert Diamonds Ireland, generously donated a diamond tennis bracelet to a special fundraising draw. Moreover, Network Ireland’s generous Wicklow branch members and local businesses donated many of their products to support the worthy cause. The event raised an incredible €2,000 for Suzanne House, a testament to the generosity and support of the female business community in Wicklow and surrounding counties.
Guests were also treated to goodie bags sponsored by Tonic Boutique, Dunboyne, Avoca, and King Hair & Beauty products. As always, an event such as this could not take place without the generosity of its sponsors, AIB Wicklow (official partner), LEO, and Wicklow News.
The Network Ireland Wicklow International Women’s Day event was a huge success, providing valuable insights, networking opportunities, and supporting a worthy cause. For more information about Network Ireland and future events, please visit networkireland.ie.
