Waterford businesswomen recognised at annual awards

The Network Ireland Waterford Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2025, meticulously crafted under the exceptional leadership of President Ann Marie Shannon, managing director of Veritas Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors, proved to be a truly powerful and memorable event. 

Ann Marie's vision shone through, focusing on creating an atmosphere where every attendee felt empowered to connect and collaborate. 

The awards ceremony, held in Waterford Castle, saw 37 inspiring applicants compete across eight diverse categories, showcasing the impressive breadth of talent within the Network Ireland Waterford membership. Ms Shannon, in her address highlighted the branch's guiding principle for the year - 'Collaborate to Elevate' - was instrumental in fostering strong business relationships and facilitating professional and personal growth for its members. That ethos led to significant successes this year, including increased collaborations in the wider business community, increased membership and a finalist nomination in the Best Digital Marketing Campaign Category at the LEO Waterford Digital Awards.

A spokesperson for the organisers said the event featured an awe-inspiring keynote address from Louise Grubb, CEO of TriviumVet, a renowned serial life science entrepreneur and inventor. Her journey served as a powerful source of inspiration for all attendees. Guests also heard from Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber of Commerce and National Vice President of Network Ireland. Gratitude was extended to AIB, the Official Partner, and the Local Enterprise Office Waterford for their consistent and incredible advocacy and special thanks was given to the Category Award Sponsors: Haleon, Granville, UPMC, and Energia.

The event also benefited from the invaluable contributions of Waterford Castle, who hosted the prosecco reception, and OfficeMaster, who provided excellent brochures and certificates. The organisers were also thankful for the continued support from Veritas Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors and The Compliance Specialist. 

"The collaborative spirit of the Network truly shone through the engagement of our gifting partners: Jayné Cahill Art, Carmel Grant Designs, Victoria’s Incredible Edibles, LBT Multidimensional Medicine, and Nature's Alchemy," said the spokesperson.

"Their involvement not only enriched the day but also effectively supported and promoted their member businesses," she added.

A beautiful performance by Áine McCarthy Kent added a wonderful touch to the atmosphere and the generous donations from the wider business community for the charity raffle in aid of the Solas Cancer Support Centre, were truly heartening.

The dedication of the Network Ireland Waterford Committee was commended by Ms Shannon with particular recognition given to Claire Mooney, owner of Reduce Costs and Vice President and Awards Co-ordinator, for her unwavering commitment. 

Margaret Julian, owner of The Compliance Specialist and Events Co-ordinator, was also celebrated for her magical touch and unwavering dedication to the branch's ethos.

Beyond the individual award winners, a truly special moment of the day was the presentation of the inaugural Network Ireland Waterford Branch President's Award 2025: The Spirit of Network Award. 

This new accolade, chosen by Branch President Ann Marie Shannon, honoured Jenny Beresford, CEO of Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber of Commerce. She was described as "an exceptional individual outside of Network Ireland Waterford who profoundly embodies the spirit of the Network and has genuinely inspired its members". 

Jenny was praised for her tireless dedication and collaborative spirit, embodying the 'Collaborate to Elevate' principle. 

It was noted that Jenny's remarkable leadership was instrumental in securing several very significant awards for her organisation. 

The results of the various categories on the night were composed of: Emerging Businesswoman - Pippa Halley – Halley Consulting; Solo Businesswoman - Lynn Shead – Natures Alchemy; Creative Professional- Louisa Murphy – Saints Colour Specialist; Employee - Rising - Cody King - MacuHealth; Employee - Shining - Catherine Power - Albatel; STEM Professional - Dr. Mary Doyle-Kent – Dept. of Engineering Technology, SETU, Waterford; Established Businesswoman - Suzanne Parker – Parker Law Solicitors; Networker - Sinead O'Neill – Sinead O Neill Consulting; Highly Commended Winners: Emerging Businesswoman - Sonia Cruz Oro – Travel Awakens; Solo Businesswoman - Sinead O Neill – Sinead O Neill Consulting; Creative Professional - Jayné Cahill – Jayné Cahill Art; Employee - Rising - Lisa Curtis – SETU Arena; Employee - Shining - Maxine McLoughlin – Little Darlings Childcare; STEM Professional - Natalie Garland Cooke – ncco- NC Consulting & Co; Established Businesswoman - Aisling Finn – The Book Resort; Networker - Sharon Ginnetty – Optimise Marketing.

The success of the Network Ireland Waterford Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2025 is a powerful testament to the vibrant community fostered by the not-for-profit organisation. Driven by a true collaborative spirit and dedicated to elevating its members, Network Ireland Waterford offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, support, and visibility. If you're a businesswoman or professional looking to elevate your career or business in Waterford, discover how collaborating with Network Ireland Waterford can help you achieve your aspirations. For more information email waterford@networkireland.ie.