Network Ireland Mayo to mark IWD 2026 in style

The Mayo branch of Network Ireland will mark International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 with an inspiring morning of connection, celebration and leadership at the stunning new Grace Hotel in Westport, on Thursday, March 12th.

Set against the elegant backdrop of one of Westport’s most beautiful new venues, the event will bring together women from across Mayo and beyond to celebrate achievement, resilience and the power of community in business.

The morning will feature keynote speaker Ruth Larkin, alongside a celebration of Network Ireland Mayo’s 2025 award winners, women whose ambition and innovation continue to shape the region’s business landscape. Ruth will inspire and motivate with her insights and experiences during her keynote speech at the event.

The event will also officially launch the Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026, recognising the next generation of outstanding female leaders.

The day will be expertly guided by respected Network Ireland longtime members and former National President, Emma Early Murphy and Linda O’Mahony Logan (Kerry branch), ensuring an engaging and meaningful experience for all in attendance.

This year's theme for International Women's Day is Give to Gain, which encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.

Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it's intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise.

Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time, contributing to women's advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world.

Speaking ahead of the event, Orla Bakeberg, President of Network Ireland Mayo, whose presidential theme for 2026 is 'Be Your Change', said:

“International Women’s Day is not just about celebration, it is about courage. It is about women choosing to step forward, to back themselves and to become the change they want to see in their lives, in their businesses and their communities. 

"My theme this year is ‘Be Your Change,’ and this event embodies that message, with our International Women's Day theme of 'Give to Gain'."

Ms Bakeberg said the event will be a really memorable occasion. 

“When women gather in a room like this, in a space as beautiful and uplifting as the new Grace Hotel, something powerful happens. Confidence grows. Ideas spark. Support strengthens. We are not just celebrating success; we are creating momentum for what comes next.” 

Registration and breakfast will begin at 8.30am, with the main event commencing sharply at 10am.

Lunch and dedicated networking time will follow the morning event, coming to a close at around 1pm. This will give attendees the opportunity to build meaningful connections in the refined and welcoming surroundings of the newly opened hotel, which is a fitting setting for a morning dedicated to progress and possibility for all women in business and women at work.

One lucky attendee, member or non-member, will win a complimentary annual subscription to Network Ireland. Don’t miss your chance to join and benefit from this thriving network.

There will be additional activities and special moments throughout the morning to make this celebration even more memorable.

The event is open to both members and non-members, with early booking encouraged, as places are expected to fill quickly.

To register, please visit this link www.networkireland.ie.