National awards bestowed upon brilliant Mayo businesswomen
L-R Alana Hayes, Michelle Scanlon, Cora Mulroy, Denise Munnelly, Lorraine Corcoran , Sandra Ganley , Mary McHugh, Orla Bakeberg, Lisa O Connor
Network Ireland Mayo is proud to announce that seven exceptional Mayo businesswomen, all winners of their respective categories at the local level, represented the county at the prestigious Network Ireland National Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2025. The national awards ceremony took place at the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney on Friday, September 26th, celebrating the achievements of professional women across Ireland.
Representing the diversity and strength of businesswomen in the region, the following Mayo finalists competed on the national stage:
Emerging Businesswoman: Michelle Scanlon – The Vital Sign Nutritionist
Solo Businesswoman: Mary McHugh – Counsellingonline.ie
Established Businesswoman: Cora Mulroy – Mayo Leisure Point
Creative Professional: Sandra Ganley – Sandra Ganley Dancer
STEM Professional: Alana Hayes – Hayes Mechanical & Engineering
Employee Shining Star: Denise Munnelly – Great National Hotel
Networker of the Year: Lorraine Hall – The Cleaning Corporation Ltd
Mayo shone brightly at the national ceremony, with three of the county’s finalists taking home top awards:
Established Businesswoman of the Year: Cora Mulroy – Mayo Leisure Point
A trailblazer in Mayo's entertainment and leisure industry, Cora Mulroy has led Mayo Leisure Point for over 31 years. After earning her Marketing degree in 1987 and working across London, Australia, Sligo, and Galway, she returned to Castlebar in 1993 to take the reins of the family business. Under her direction, Mayo Leisure Point has grown to include Mayo Movie World, Castle Leisure Club, Hogs Heaven Bar, and Garbo's Venue. Cora is widely respected for her strategic vision, leadership, and contribution to the cultural life of the region.
Creative Professional of the Year: Sandra Ganley – Sandra Ganley Dancer
As the founder of the Sandra Ganley Dance School and a leading figure in Irish country music and dance, Sandra Ganley has inspired thousands through jiving, Irish dance, and social dance. From toddlers to adults, Sandra teaches with passion, fun, and cultural pride. She is also a well-known podcast host and presenter, using her platforms to promote Irish arts and heritage. Her creativity and community spirit made her a standout winner in this national category.
Networker of the Year: Lorraine Hall – The Cleaning Corporation Ltd
Lorraine Hall, Director of The Cleaning Corporation, has been instrumental in building one of Mayo’s most trusted contract cleaning businesses, employing over 60 staff and serving clients across both the public and private sectors. With a background in corporate HR and psychometric training, Lorraine combines strategic leadership with a strong commitment to people development. A member of Network Ireland for over 30 years, she is a tireless advocate for women in business and professional networking.
