Network Mayo prepare for International Women's Day

There is always a strong focus on women in business and female entrepreneurs, both active and aspiring, and this year's International Women’s Day is no different.

It is a day to reflect and celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of leading ladies in the world of business but also to let the ladder down and let those aspiring to climb that ladder know the climb can be made less arduous with the support and advice of those who have gone before you.

It is clear from the success of organisations such as Network Mayo that the saying ‘A rising tide lifts all boats’ rings true, and by coming together to share ideas, to provide support and mentorship and to inspire growth in one other, another saying rings true too: ‘We rise by lifting others’.

Lorraine Burnell is the Chief Corporate Consultant for Dynamite Lifestyle and the President of Network Mayo and has had quite the journey towards both her professional and voluntary roles.

The Belmullet native worked in Galway and the United Kingdom, where she ran a company, before moving home. She became managing director of a company in Mayo but as one of few women in her organisation, Lorraine began to look to make connections with other women succeeding in business, as she had been involved in similar organisations in the UK.

“I joined Network because I was working in a very male-dominated environment at the time, a hardware retailer. I was looking to make a connection with like-minded women in business or a networking platform,” she said.

International Women’s Day is an anniversary of sorts for Lorraine, it was the day she first walked in the door of a Network Mayo meeting, something she feels has made a huge difference for her.

“I feel like with the Network, it’s a network of ladies who hold the ladder for each other. We’re always trying to help each other, introduce each other to each other and there is a lot of supports. 

“There is a lot of different aspects such as wellness and financial advice and we all support each. For me walking in the door, I was looking for a group of women I could get advice off or talk to about careers and I have got that."

The Network regularly holds events bringing together its members and offering support and expert advice. Niamh Ryan, CEO and co-founder of Ella & Jo Cosmetics, will be the guest speaker at the ‘Together We Are Stronger’ event at Breaffy House Hotel tomorrow (Wednesday, March 5) at 9.30am.

Ella & Jo is an international award-winning Irish skincare company and Niamh will be confidently sharing her journey in business. It is an opportunity to gain valuable insights to take charge of your business.

It is the ethos of what groups like Network Mayo are about, says Lorraine.

“I couldn’t get over the level of collaboration, support, friendship from the moment I first walked in the door and I fell in love with the Network straight away. 

“I have made friends I know I’ll have for life within the Network. That support is always there.

“We have a great committee and we’re really strong right now and we always want to let people know we are here and always welcoming new members,” she said.