Pictures: Network Ireland Kilkenny’s Businesswomen of the Year announced

The regional finalists for the Network Ireland Kilkenny Businesswoman of the Year Awards were announced on Friday, June 14 at the annual dinner celebration held at The Set Theatre in Langton House Hotel.

The celebration began with a prosecco reception in Bridies Bar followed by a three-course dinner. Keynote speakers included Network Ireland President Linda Codoul, AIB’s Relationship Manager, Natasha Hayes, Aileen McGrath of Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office and KCLR’s Edward Hayden. A fireside chat featured Ella Dunphy of DNG Ella Dunphy, Anita Thomas, Ireland Manager at Emirates Ireland, and Catherine Dalton of Crown Hair Salon. The event was MC’d by Eimear Ni Bhraonáin, with Aisling Delaney serving as DJ.

The awards, sponsored by Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office, Valley of Roses, and AIB, recognised 21 local professionals shortlisted across five categories. The winners are:

Emerging Businesswoman: Michelle McDonald, Sásta Skin Health.
Established Businesswoman: Linda Murray, Beoga Nutrition.
Creative Professional of the Year: Sarah McGree, The Wild Grazer.
Employee – Shining Star: Valerie O’Sullivan, Rothe House Trust.
Solo Businesswoman: Visual Artist Dominika Stoppa.

Gail Daniels of Bó Bar Soap was highly commended in the Creative Professional category. It has been a great few days for Gail, who also picked up silverware at the National Dairy Awards (see page 3).

The finalists will go forward to represent the county in the national Businesswomen of the Year Awards in Lyrath Estate Hotel on September 27