| Cork |
Cork BranchNetwork Ireland Cork Branch is a non-profit, voluntary organisation which supports the professional and personal development of women. It provides a forum in which women can develop professional and personal contacts to ensure that their contribution and influence is recognised as a vital force in business and in society. Of the branch network of members around the country, Cork has the largest membership base. Network Cork’s membership includes both entrepreneurs and employees, SME owners and professionals, leaders in indigenous and multinational organisations, non-profits, the arts and public sector. This dynamic branch has a strong voice and is interested in promoting diversity and equality, entrepreneurship and leadership development. The Cork branch maintains a very high level of engagement with members and a super line-up of monthly events, annual awards, barbecue and Christmas party. Topics and event speakers are selected to appeal across the diverse membership. Members can also avail of the national mentoring programme and attend events in any branch within the country. AIB is the official partner for Network Ireland and Network Cork is also supported by LEO Cork City. Network Ireland is a signatory of Diversity Charter Ireland. For more information contact the Network Cork branch secretary at cork@networkireland.ie or corkmembership@networkireland.ie if interested in joining. Connect with our Branch:2025 Committee
Cathy Fitzgibbon
President
The Culinary Celt
Cork Branch President
Founder & OwnerThe Culinary Celt Cathy joined the Network Cork branch in 2012. As an advocate for Irish produce and a published author in the areas of wellbeing and sustainability, her work involves mentoring intergenerational cohorts and marketing consultancy services tailored to SME businesses in the agri. and food sectors, enabling them to effectively communicate and market their brands. The Culinary Celt earned Cathy the Solo Businesswoman Award at the 2022 Network Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards (Cork branch), with her award-winning ethos centred on sustainable food practices using a mindful eating approach. Under her leadership, Cathy is deeply committed to championing sustainability and prioritising the wellbeing of members. She believes these principles are integral to the success of any network, ensuring we not only thrive in the present but also lay the foundation for a sustainable and thriving future. With this focus, she strives to continue building on the organisation’s values: leading, supporting, collaborating - inspiring members to achieve both personal and professional growth, with a commitment to a bright and sustainable future!
Diane Higgins
Vice President & Awards Coordinator
Diane Higgins Design
Cork Branch Vice President & Awards Coordinator
DesignerDiane Higgins Design Diane Higgins is a freelance graphic designer based in Cork, with over a decade of experience working with clients ranging from start-ups to established businesses. Alongside her design work, Diane lectures university students, combining her marketing expertise with a passion for education. Since joining Network Ireland in 2020, Diane describes it as her “business family,” a community that has transformed her personally and professionally. Through roles such as Events Officer, Social Media Officer, and Website Officer, she has supported the Network while growing her own skills and confidence. As Vice President of the Cork branch, Diane is dedicated to fostering connection, confidence, and belonging among members. Collaborating with President Cathy and the committee, she aims to strengthen the Network’s foundation and welcome new members. Diane’s commitment is rooted in her belief in the power of professional networking and the lifelong friendships it can create, calling the Network “the friend you never knew you needed.” Looking ahead, Diane is excited to continue her journey with Network Ireland, helping others discover the invaluable support and opportunities it offers.
Susana Marambio
Ex Officio
BBCS Business Advisors
Cork Branch Ex Officio
Co-owner & DirectorBBCS Business Advisors Susana joined Network Cork in 2020, while planning her move to Ireland. She often says that in her first five months in Ireland, she had more virtual coffee chats than during her 14 years in the Netherlands and the UK combined. Susana is the 2024 Ex-Officio of Network Cork, having been President in 2024, Vice President and Awards Coordinator in 2023 and Social Media Officer in 2021 and 2022. As Awards Coordinator in 2023, she achieved a record number of applications for the Businesswoman of the Year Awards. As the 2024 President, she goal was to help members feel truly connected to this dynamic business community. She grew event attendance by 30%, held 7 out of 10 sold-out events, with 5 drawing over 150 attendees, and welcomed 300+ extra attendees compared to 2023. Susana's time with Network Cork has been invaluable for her personal growth. Originally from Chile, Susana has lived in Europe for 25 years and worked as a corporate business leader across EMEA for 23 years. She is co-owner and director at BBCS Business Advisors, helping small and medium businesses grow faster and reach their goals more effectively.
Samantha Halpin
Treasurer
Halpin Wealth Management
Cork Branch Treasurer
Managing DirectorHalpin Wealth Management Samantha Halpin is the Managing Director of Halpin Wealth Management and the newly appointed Treasurer of the Network Cork committee. With a career dedicated to empowering people to take control of their finances, Samantha views financial planning as more than just numbers—it’s about equipping individuals with the confidence and tools to achieve financial freedom, no matter their starting point. In addition to her work in wealth management, Samantha is the owner of Creative Solutions, a website and marketing company. Her entrepreneurial ventures blend creativity with strategy, showcasing her passion for innovation and connection. Since joining Network Cork, Samantha has been inspired by its vibrant community of women who champion one another’s successes. As Treasurer, she is committed to giving back to this supportive network and contributing to its ongoing growth and impact. Outside of her professional roles, Samantha is a mum, a dog lover, and a lifelong learner. She is eager to bring her expertise, energy, and enthusiasm to the committee, with a vision of making 2025 a year of opportunity, collaboration, and success for all Network Cork members.”
Louise Kane Buckley
Secretary
Loula Natural
Cork Branch Secretary
NaturopathLoula Natural When Louise joined Network Ireland Cork in 2023, she immediately recognised how aligned its values were with her own—community, collaboration, and empowering others to thrive. As a naturopath, she believes in treating the whole person, addressing root causes, and sharing knowledge so others can make informed choices, principles she brings into both her business and her role within the Network. Now in her third year as a mentor for the Mentoring for Success Programme, Louise has supported well-being business owners in course creation, website content, and building confidence in their expertise. Last year, she enjoyed writing the Network Cork newsletter so much that she’s delighted to be back on the Cork committee in 2024/5 as Secretary. With over 20 years in the wellness industry and a lifetime of experience as a sole trader, she understands the challenges of balancing passion with the realities of running a business. She is committed to helping members get the most from their Network experience, whether through connections, learning opportunities, or simply feeling supported in their journey. From her very first meeting, she was struck by the warmth and camaraderie of this inspiring group of women and is excited to continue growing alongside them while being a friendly, approachable presence at events.
Roisín Flynn
PRO & Events Officer
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Cork
Cork Branch PRO & Events Officer
Director of SalesRadisson Blu Hotel & Spa Cork Roisín originally joined Network Cork in July 2019 and is now delighted to join the Network Cork Committee for 2025 in the role of Events Officer and PRO. She is Director of Sales at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa in Cork, part of the iNUA Collection, with nearly 20 years' experience in the hotel industry, Roisín now focuses on Revenue, Sales, Marketing and Event Management. She's really excited to bring her experience to join a wonderful collective of businesswomen here in Cork and looks forward to delivering dynamic events to highlight Network Cork's mission, ensuring it remains a leading platform for professional women to thrive.
Maura Mackey
Membership Officer
Maura Mackey Design
Cork Branch Membership Officer
OwnerMaura Mackey Design Maura Mackey is a member of Network Cork with 5 years, she is on the committee 3 of those years. She joined Network Cork when she set up her business Maura Mackey Design- Interior Design for your home and your business. Her tag line is…. I turn new and tired properties into modern contemporary designs while adapting the biophilic design concept. So, in brief she will make your property SMILE. She loves creating beautiful spaces for her clients. Her clients vary from homeowners, business owners and also clients who want to stage their properties for sale. She is passionate about the members in Network Cork, she enjoys connecting people, giving introductions, creating collaborations within the network where possible. Meeting in person is so important in business, ladies get to meet the real person behind a name or business and that’s where the monthly events are key, she says. She love’s networking - this year she was a national finalist in the ‘Networker of the Year’ category. Her motto is if you are in business, come and meet the members in Network Cork.
Therese Deane
Membership Officer
MACOM
Cork Branch Membership Officer
Snr. Director, Corporate SustainabilityMACOM From the very first event that Therese attended in 2023, she found the women of Network Ireland Cork to be dynamic, optimistic and supportive. Recognising the positive impact of the network for women in business, she joined the committee in 2024 to help grow our membership across Cork and beyond. Leading Corporate Sustainability at MACOM, Therese is passionate about implementing practical solutions to sustainability challenges, and about supporting Cathy Fitzgibbon’s theme of Sustainable Success. Coming from a STEM background, with an MSc. in Materials Chemistry, she is also passionate about supporting lifelong learning, women and STEM. She is a mentor for Network Ireland and WITS (Women in Technology & Science), whilst also leading MACOM’s engagement with STEM Southwest, an organisation dedicated to promoting STEM within our communities, our education system and industry.
Gemma Kingston
Membership Officer
The Family Edit
Cork Branch Membership Officer
FounderThe Family Edit Gemma Kingston is the founder of The Family Edit, a platform that showcases the top family friendly and family approved businesses across Ireland - from Pregnancy to Primary School Years, across eleven categories of family life. With a unique blend of expertise in Commerce and Primary Teaching, Gemma has combined her business acumen with a deep understanding of family dynamics and educational needs. This fusion allows The Family Edit to curate and deliver relatable and engaging content that resonates with families looking for trusted services, supports and products. Since 2023, Gemma has been a member of Network Cork, where she loves the opportunity to connect, collaborate and be inspired along her business journey. Serving on the committee, Gemma takes pride in fostering relationships with existing members and warmly welcoming new ones, further enriching the vibrant community that Network Cork is known for.
Nadine Hughes Campbell
Membership Officer
Noah’s Adventures
Cork Branch Membership Officer
AuthorNoah’s Adventures Nadine joined Network Cork in January 2024 and has found it to be an incredibly welcoming and supportive community. A creative professional and children's author, she is passionate about storytelling and fostering cultural understanding and inclusion. Through her picture book series; Noah's Adventures. Through the network, Nadine was honoured to be selected for the Spark It program and the IMI 30% Club Network Mentoring Programme, both of which have been invaluable in shaping her professional journey. Delighted to be part of the committee this year as Membership Officer, looking forward to working alongside Cathy, Diane, and the other inspiring members of the network to contribute to its continued success and mission of empowering women in business.
Victoria Curtis
Events Officer
Cork Opera House
Cork Branch Events Officer
Marketing ExecutiveCork Opera House Victoria is an experienced Marketing Executive with a demonstrated history of working in the performing arts and events industries. With a BA degree in New Media and a postgraduate diploma in Digital Marketing from MTU, Victoria brought 6 years marketing experience to Cork Opera House when she took up her dream role in 2023. Victoria hails from Mallow, Co.Cork and in 2017 co-founded the Mallow Arts Festival with her father. She loves to co-ordinate events that bring local communities together and promote the flourishing arts industry in Ireland. After becoming a member of Network Cork in 2024, Victoria was inspired by the events throughout the year to join the committee in 2025. She is looking forward to working with her fellow committee members to bring Network Cork’s vision to life.
Marilyn Reidy
Social Media Officer
Kneat Solutions
Cork Branch Social Media Officer
Senior Digital Marketing & Demand Generation LeadKneat Solutions Marilyn joined Network Cork in 2022 to connect with like-minded professionals, and in 2023, she was honored to receive the Shining Star award at the Network Cork Businesswoman of the Year. Her marketing career, which began in 2011, has given her a deep and comprehensive understanding of the industry. This experience plays a vital role in her position at Kneat Solutions, where she leads their Digital Marketing and Demand Generation strategies, driving growth and engagement. She’s absolutely thrilled to continue her journey with Network Cork as a Social Media Officer on the committee for a third year. In this role, Marilyn is dedicated to developing a strategic social media plan that delivers engaging content and impactful marketing campaigns. Her goal for the coming year is to work collaboratively with fellow officers to drive greater engagement, enhance visibility and grow the network’s membership.
Niamh Gaine
Social Media Officer
Cork Education & Training Board
Cork Branch Social Media Officer
Assistant ManagerCork Education & Training Board Niamh is one of the Assistant Managers in Cork College of FET- Bishopstown Campus, with responsibility for the FET for Enterprise upskilling section. In her work she supports individuals and businesses to upskill and reskill and to engage in lifelong learning. Niamh is passionate about the transformative power of education and how it changes people’s lives. An avid reader from a young age, Niamh can usually be found with my nose in a book, whether fiction or non-fiction. She also enjoys going to the gym, running slowly and she never turns down the chance for a coffee and a chat! Niamh also looks after the marketing and social media for Bishopstown Campus and is looking forward to bringing these skills to Network Cork this year as part of the Social Media Team. A member of of Network Cork since July 2023, Niamh has really enjoyed her time in the Network and the connections she has made. The energy and inspiration that each event has given her has motivated her to give back this year and deepen her connections across the Network.
Tracy McCarthy
Social Media Officer
Natural Balanced and Head to Toe Therapies
Cork Branch Social Media Officer
FounderNatural Balanced and Head to Toe Therapies Tracy is the dedicated and innovative founder of Natural Balanced and Head to Toe Therapies, where she is now leading the way in creating honest skincare. As a mother of six, Tracy’s journey began over 15 years ago when she returned to college to study holistic therapies. Having qualified in massage, beauty therapy, neuromuscular physical therapy, reflexology, baby massage and a wide variety of holistic therapies, Tracy progressed to become an educator teaching massage and beauty therapy for a private college in Cork. Here her passion for skin grew when she realised that true skin care needed a holistic approach. Tracy has established two renowned clinics in Kinsale and Clonakilty specialising in holistic and physical therapies. On site she began to blend oils specific for her client’s needs which led to the creation of Naturally Balanced concept oils, a range of plant-based oils free from chemicals and artificial preservatives. Inspired by her surroundings in Kinsale and West Cork, Tracy’s belief in creating her product is rooted in nature and what it has to provide us. Every product is hand-crafted with care and expertise, ensuring the highest quality and efficacy and all are designed to support overall wellbeing, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, enhancing natural beauty and sustainable.
Dr. Siobhán Lucey
Strategic Collaborations
University College Cork
Cork Branch Strategic Collaborations
AcademicUniversity College Cork Siobhán has been a member of Network Ireland since November 2023, won the 2024 Network Cork Employee Shining Star award and joined the Network Cork committee as its inaugural Strategic Collaborations officer in 2024. She was the inaugural President and co-founder of UCC’s Women’s Network (Mná@UCC) and it was in this capacity that Siobhán first approached Network Ireland Cork in 2022, to discuss the idea/opportunity of Network Ireland Cork and Mná@UCC working together to achieve a common aim of promoting and supporting the professional development of women in respective fields. Siobhán proposed the idea of collaborating on hosting joint speaking events and workshops and to that end the inaugural joint workshop and keynote event with Mary Ann Sieghart (The Authority Gap) took place on St. Brigid’s Day, 2023, followed by a second joint event in February 2024 with Profs. Brad Johnson and David Smith (Workplace Allies). The success of these events has laid a strong foundation to pursue similar joint/collaborative networking events and opportunities, which can now be further supported in this current 2025 Strategic Collaborations officer role on the Network Ireland Cork committee.
Arife Hysaj
Collaborations Officer
Saoirse Ethnic Hands on Deck
Cork Branch Collaborations Officer
Founder and Community MentorSaoirse Ethnic Hands on Deck Arife Hysaj is a passionate advocate for community entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment. Originally from Albania, she has lived in Cork since 2017. Fluent in multiple languages, Arife values the power of connection across cultures to inspire change. In April 2024, Arife joined Network Ireland Cork through Saoirse Ethnic Hands on Deck, a social enterprise she co-founded in 2020. Saoirse has become a vital support network for migrant women and families, offering resources, mentorship, and a sense of belonging. Arife is also a Founding Member of the Women’s Coffee Morning at the CMC and Co-founder of the International Garden Project. She has contributed to the Sanctuary Mask Initiative and Let’s Match Mums, as well as supporting migrant families through parenting workshops. Arife holds a degree in Chemistry and Food Technology and has completed certifications in leadership, mentorship and community development. A dedicated wife and mother of two, she balances family life with her passion for community work. As the 2025 Collaborations Officer for Network Ireland Cork, Arife is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where women can connect, share resources and grow together. She is eager to embrace new experiences and looks forward to collaborating with the inspiring leaders within the network. Businesswoman of the Year Awards Cork Branch Awards 2025
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2025Network Ireland Cork Branch held its 2025 Businesswoman of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday, 23rd May 2025, at The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork. Nine individual awards were presented to exceptional female business leaders in Cork at the gala ceremony, recognising their achievements in their respective categories.
2025 Network Ireland Cork Winners are: The "President's Awards" was presented to presented to Caitríona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners. Cork Branch Awards 2024
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2024Network Ireland Cork Branch held its 2024 Businesswoman of the Year Awards ceremony on May 23rd, 2024, at The Vienna Woods Hotel. Nine individual awards were presented to exceptional female business leaders in Cork at the gala ceremony, recognising their achievements in their respective categories.
2024 Network Ireland Cork Winners are: The "President's Awards" sponsored by RHEA Events was presented to presented to Elaine Duggan, Deputy Features Editor at The Echo newspaper and EchoLive.ie. Editor of Women on Wednesday (WoW!). The event was hosted by Anna Daly, TV presenter, host of 'Future Island' (RTE1) Hospital Live' (RTE 1) Zoo live (RTE 1). The winners in each category were determined by the judging panel of Evelyn Moynihan, CEO Kilkenny Design Centre, Audrey Houlihan, Branch Manager at AIB Blackpool and Niall O’ Keeffe, Head of Enterprise at LEO Cork City Speaking on the announcement of the winners, Network Cork President, Susana Marambio said: “We’re immensely proud to celebrate our outstanding winner. Their achievements reflect the ambition, innovation, and determination that define our community. Their stories will undoubtedly inspire not only the next generation, but all women in business. Let's continue to support and uplift one another as we celebrate their exceptional accomplishments.” Cork Branch Awards 2023
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2023On 25th May 2023, we gathered at Maryborough House Hotel to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in business and, in particular, to celebrate those who won the Nine Businesswoman of the Year Award categories.
2023 Network Cork Winners are: The "President's Awards" sponsored by RHEA Events was presented to Paula Cogan, CEO at Cognate Health. The event was hosted by Deirdre O' Shaughnessy, News Editor at Irish Examiner. The winners in each category were determined by the judging panel of Gillian Keating, Partner at RDJ, Vicki Crean, Manager Service and Sales at AIB and Niall O’ Keeffe, Head of Enterprise at LEO Cork City. Speaking on the announcement of the winners, Network Cork President, Ingrid Seim said: “We are celebrating the achievements of so many outstanding women. Our members represent such a wide range of businesses and industries in Cork, and we are proud and honoured to highlight their successes.” Cork Branch Awards 2022
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2022Nine women from across Cork were honoured for their professional achievements at the Network Ireland Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards held on Friday May 27th 2022 at Fota Island Resort.
‘The President’s Award’ sponsored by Grant Thornton was presented to Irene Wallace, Cork Fire Service in recognition of her mental and physical courage, her inspiration and service to the public, even during the pandemic, her appetite for continuous professional development, all in a male-dominated sector, and to highlight the importance of engagement between the public and private sectors. The event was hosted by Emmy-winning former CNN correspondent and anchor Gina London, while guest speaker for the evening was Minister Michael McGrath. President of Network Cork Maria Desmond congratulated the award winners and paid tribute to sponsors AIB, Cork City LEO and the judging panel for their support. She said: "This year’s awards were the first we were able to host, after a gap of two years over the pandemic, and it was incredible to see the collective support in the room that all of our members, finalists and winners had for each other on the night. I would like to express my sincere congratulations to all of the winners and hope they are immensely proud of their achievements but would also like to congratulate our finalists.” The winners in each category were determined by the judging panel of Linda Kiely, co-founder Voxpro; Vicki Crean, AIB and Dr Niall O'Keeffe, LEO Cork City. They expressed their delight at the opportunity to judge at the awards, and paid tribute to the standard of the applications. Cork Branch Awards 2021
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2021Winners of the 2021 Network Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards were announced at a virtual awards ceremony streamed lived from VE Studio on June 2nd.
Judges included former Tánaiste Mary Harney; Sharon Corcoran, Director of Economic Development & Tourism at Cork County Council; and Vicki Crean, AIB Manager of Service and Sales, Cork City. The category sponsors are DePuy Synthes, Grant Thornton, HerMoney, Kinsale Gin, Lady of the Valley, O'Flynn Exhams, Partnership International and Transilient Coaching. The virtual event was compered by Cork's 96fm presenter Keith Cunningham and guest speaker was Christine Armstrong, author of The Mother Of All Jobs.
Speaking on the winners, Network Ireland Cork’s president, Barbara Nugent said: “The 2021 winners of the Network Ireland Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards are hugely different, all operating across diverse fields, but are intrinsically linked through their exceptional leadership, creativity and resilience through crisis and uncertainty. They have used their knowledge, expertise and influence to shape their companies, and in some cases, the wider community for the better. Each woman is a truly deserving winner.” Cork Branch Awards 2020
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2020At a virtual awards ceremony on the 28th of August 2020, the winners of the Network Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards were announced. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Ireland’s national Online and Media Coordinator Linda O’Connell was named as the overall Network Ireland Cork Businesswoman of the Year. Linda also scooped the award for Transformative Employee. Winner of the Power Within Champion Award, recognising those who overcame challenges in business arising from COVID-19 was Trudy McQuaid, Events Coordinator for Enable Ireland, Cork. Solo Businesswoman winner was Maeve Lankford of Kaleidoscope Coaching and Facilitation who successfully migrated all her business online while Emerging New Business was won by co-founder of Change by Degrees, Madeleine Murray, for the social enterprise’s ambition and focus on developing new ways of living sustainably. The award for Business Innovation went to Jenny Murphy, the designer behind Red Balloon, who was commended for her creative and unique business model, while Eveanna De Barra Kumar of Himalaya Yoga Valley won Online Business Transformation for demonstrating resilience and focus in pivoting to online business. Speaking on the winners, Network Ireland Cork’s president, Marguerite O'Sullivan said: “From migrating to an online business to designing sustainability solutions, the 2020 winners of the Network Ireland Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards are hugely diverse but are linked through their exceptional leadership, creativity and resilience. This has been a year unlike any other. The pandemic has been an epic test of character and determination for so many — the pressure has been daunting and the need to pivot while staying energised and focused never more important. In the face of certain challenges, our winners have looked outwards and showed great strength. A huge congratulations to each and everyone.” Cork Branch Awards 2019
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2019On 24 May 2019, members and friends of Network Cork gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in business and, in particular, to celebrate those who won the six Businesswoman of the Year Award categories. Congratulations to our six winners as well as to our finalists and nominees. Well done for stepping up and putting yourselves forward for these awards. Pictured from back left: Small Business – Ikon Hair – Valerie Finnegan Cahill Employee - Rising Star – Recruitment Consultant and Change Manager in EmployMum – Helen Walshe STEM – Depuy Johnson & Johnson – Marguerite O’Sullivan Emerging Category Winner – MamaBear Foods – Loretta Kennedy Large Business & Overall Winner – Wedding Dates – Ciara Crossan President of Network Ireland Cork Branch 2019 – Gillian Hennessy Employee - Shining Star – Business Manager in Himalaya Yoga Valley – Marion Courtney Cork Branch Awards 2018
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2018Network Ireland Cork Branch held its 2018 Businesswoman of the Year Awards ceremony in Fota Island Resort on the 11th of May. Six individual awards were presented to outstanding female business leaders in Cork at the gala ceremony in their respective categories. Irene Twohig of Educogym was crowned overall Cork Businesswoman of the Year 2018, with the judges commending her entrepreneurial spirit, passion for the business and willingness to take risks. Irene also took the award for SME with more than 10 employees, sponsored by the Hayfield Family Collection, recognising her growth mindset and future business strategy, while Emerging New Business of the Year, sponsored by the Montenotte Hotel, went to Karen O’Reilly of Employmum for her clear business plan and effective use of media. Maria Desmond of Enable Ireland won the Employee of the Year category, sponsored by EQ.ie, for her distinguished contribution to the charity and impact on the lives of people who face challenges. Fiona Kennedy won the Arts category, sponsored by Fota Island Resort, for her perseverance and resilience, whilst Shirley Feeney of Shirley’s Beauty Clinic took the Best Small Business <10 Employees Award, sponsored by Contracting Plus and HerMoney, for their investment in the business and adaption to new trends. Joan Walsh of Partnership International was presented with the Award for Best Use of Digital, sponsored by Clayton Hotel Cork City, for embracing a range of new technologies in digital marketing. Maureen Forrest of HOPE Foundation also received a special recognition on the evening which recognised her hard work and dedication to the charity over the past 20 years. Speaking on the announcement of the winners, Network Cork President, Karen Fleming said: “The Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of women in business across Cork City and County. Both winners and finalists deserved to be recognised for outstanding contributions to their respective industries and companies.” Picture: Darragh Kane Cork Branch Awards 2017
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2017Winners of the Network Cork Businesswomen of the Year Awards: Michelle Johnson from ASA Marketing who won SME more than 10 Employees; Sinead O’Keeffe from Enable Ireland who won Social Enterprise Category; Gillian Hennessy of Collins Press who won Employee Category; Maria Tracey representing Susie Horgan of Springboard PR who won both SME less than 10 Employees Category and overall Cork Businesswoman of the Year for 2017; Sian Horn of Elite Pilates who won Emerging Business Category; Sinead Dunphy from The Cork Choral Festival who won Arts Category with President of Network Cork Ciara Wilson, The Salon Shop at the Network Cork Businesswomen of the Year Awards 2017 in the Rochestown Park Hotel. Picture: Darragh Kane Cork Branch Awards 2016
Cork Branch Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2016President of Network Cork Joan Walsh, Partnership International and President of Network Ireland Deirdre Waldron, Fuzion Communications with (front anti-clockwise) Winners Best Business in Arts and overall Winner Lorraine Maye; Best SME 6-20 Joanne O'Regan, JLT Tiles; Best Social Enterprise Miriam Forde, CUH; Best Employee Jacqueline McCarthy, Deputy Synthes; Best SME 0-5 employees Clodagh Sheehan, Accuro and Best Emerging Business Teresa O'Sullivan, Douglas Law at the Network Cork Businesswomen of the Year Awards in the Imperial Hotel, Cork. Picture: Darragh Kane |