Meet the winners of the Network Ireland Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards

THE Network Cork, Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2024 have been announced.

The celebratory event took place at Vienna Woods Hotel, Cork, on Thursday night.

The winners were chosen from multiple sectors and industries, from start-ups to established businesses and from entrepreneurs to organisational changemakers.

The winners in the eight categories are:

• Dara O’ Shea, RHEA, Emerging Businesswoman sponsored by Occupational Health Solutions 
• Elizabeth Gavin, NuaFund, Established Businesswoman sponsored by Hegarty Properties 
• Orla McAndrew, Orla McAndrew Food, Solo Businesswoman sponsored by Up She Rises 
• Patricia Macropoulos, Access Laboratories, STEM Professional sponsored by Kneat Solutions 
• Stef McSherry, Kinderama, Creative Professional sponsored by Maura Mackey Design 
• Lorna Horgan, Cork's 96FM & C103, Employee Rising Star sponsored by Celtic Ross Hotel 
• Siobhán Lucey, University College Cork, Employee Shining Star sponsored by Avenues Consultancy & Coaching 
• Maura Mackey, Maura Mackey Design Networker of the Year sponsored by HerMoney 

Forty-five women from across Cork City and County were shortlisted for the awards across eight different award categories, based on the calibre of their professional achievement. The winners in each category were determined by a judging panel comprised of business experts including Evelyn Moynihan, CEO, Kilkenny Group; Audrey Houlihan, Branch Manager at AIB Blackpool; and Niall O’Keeffe, Head of Enterprise at LEO Cork City.

The President’s Award was also presented to Elaine Duggan, Deputy Features Editor of The Echo and EchoLive.ie and Editor of the paper's Women on Wednesday (WoW!) supplement, for her support on amplifying stories of individuals driving change in Cork. This special award acknowledges the work of one exceptional individual outside of Network Cork who embodies the spirit of the Network and who has inspired other members.

The event was hosted by Anna Daly, multi-award winning TV anchor and presenter, and founder of slow fashion brand Little Bliss, with a special address from Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Kieran McCarthy.

Speaking at the Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2024 ceremony, Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Kieran McCarthy stressed the importance of this annual event: “To see such an impressive line-up of finalists for the 2024 Network Ireland Cork Awards is truly spectacular. Network Cork plays a vital role in supporting women in their careers and businesses, and this annual awards ceremony is a significant event that celebrates and recognises the remarkable achievements of professionals across Cork City and County. 

These leaders are driving innovation and growth within Cork’s business community while also inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and business leaders. Their accomplishments are worthy of celebration. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to not only the winners but also each finalist for this well-deserved recognition.

President of Network Cork, Susana Marambio extended her congratulations to this year’s winners and shared her pride in showcasing the achievements of Cork women in business: “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.

 Network Cork Awards Co-Ordinator and 2022 recipient of the Solo Businesswoman award, Cathy Fitzgibbon spoke of the exceptional talent and innovation within Cork's business community: “Each year at the Businesswoman of the Year awards, we are reminded of the incredible talent, dedication and innovation that define our business community here in Cork. With each nominee, we witness the embodiment of perseverance and excellence, shaping the landscape of entrepreneurship and leadership."

The evening included a drinks reception sponsored by Rebel City Distillery, followed by an exquisite dinner featuring local produce and later, music by a fantastic local DJ.

As a continued strong voice for women in business in Cork, the Cork branch is honoured to host this momentous event.

To learn more about Network Cork visit www.networkireland.ie/cork

About Network Cork 

Network 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.

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.

See WoW next week in print for more.