The exceptional achievements of women in business across Louth and surrounding counties were celebrated on Friday evening, 23^rd May, at the Network Ireland Louth Businesswoman of the Year Awards, held at the Fairways Hotel Dundalk.

The black-tie event recognised local female entrepreneurs and professionals across a range of sectors, with winners in national award categories now set to represent the Louth branch at the Network Ireland National Businesswoman of the Year Awards in September, in Killarney.

The 2025 Louth Branch winners, who will be going forward to represent Louth at the National Businesswoman of the Year Awards are:

• Emerging Businesswoman – Natasha Keenan, Border Boutique Hire
• Solo Businesswoman – Maria Morgan, Esker Fields Skincare
• Established Businesswoman – Joanne Lavelle, Lavelle Auctioneers & Valuers
• STEM Professional – Joan McCann, The Code Lab
• Creative Professional – Caroline Duffy, Caroline Duffy Designs
• Networker of the Year – Pauline Clarke, Kookee

Highly Commended recipients included:

• Leanne McGrath, Virtually Leanne (Emerging Businesswoman)
• Pauline Clarke, Kookee (Established Businesswoman)

Judges’ Awards celebrated unique contributions and innovation:

• One to Watch Award – Joanne Lynch, Bo By Jo
• Innovation Award – Hazel Rossiter, Support to Rise
• Outstanding Contribution to Industry Award – Carmel McCarthy, EMS & Associates
• Community Contribution Award – Cathrine Chiduza, Holistic Healthcare Ireland
• Future Growth Award – Eileen Taylor, Woofland Dog Park

In a symbolic gesture of empowerment, Nicola Connolly Byrne, President of Network Ireland Louth, presented each finalist with a crown, saying: “Women always fix each other’s crowns.”

Nicola expressed heartfelt thanks to the judging panel and sponsors, especially AIB Bank, LEO Louth, Face Credit Consultancy, and Relish Café, whose support made the evening possible.

The event was expertly hosted by Julie Burke of Jules Rules Irl, whose wit and charisma kept the evening flowing. Julie also led a special ‘fireside chat’ with Linda Hanlon, retired psychotherapist turned photographer, whose exhibition and book, Empower Her, features 54 portraits capturing the essence of female empowerment in Ireland. Four Louth women are among those highlighted in the collection, which was proudly exhibited at the ceremony.

This year’s charity partner was Dundalk Women’s Aid whose CEO Ann Larkin delivered a powerful message about the organisation’s work, reminding the audience that “one in three women in Ireland have experienced psychological, physical and/or sexual abuse from their partner.” Proceeds from the event supported this vital local service.

Network Ireland is a progressive, dynamic organisation supporting the professional and personal development of women. With over 1,200 members, 17 Branches, and a strong nationwide presence, the group holds regular events, workshops, and networking opportunities that promote empowerment and leadership for women in business.  They are always open to new members joining, who can avail of all the supports and benefits available.  It doesn’t matter if someone is an established businesswoman or just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey.    To join Network Ireland, go to:  www.networkireland.ie and ‘become a member.’