Ulster University has welcomed members of the University and wider community to its Derry~Londonderry campus for the launch of the EMPOWER HER Exhibition – an inspiring celebration of strength, resilience and creativity.
The exhibition forms part of a wider programme of International Women’s Day events taking place across Ulster University’s three campuses.
Alongside EMPOWER HER in Derry~Londonderry, the University is hosting two further events led by Ulster University alumnae: Give to Gain: The Power of Giving in Belfast on 4 March, led by philanthropist and Summerhill Foundation CEO and founder Eileen Mooney, and the CelebrateHER Conference in Coleraine on 5 March, hosted by Caroline O’Neill, founder of Dig Mama – a leading Northern Ireland-based women’s empowerment platform and podcast.
Together, the events reflect Ulster University’s continued commitment to championing women’s voices, leadership and impact across education, research, business and community life.
Supported by the Department for the Economy, EMPOWER HER showcases a striking portrait collection celebrating 54 women from diverse backgrounds who have pushed through personal and professional glass ceilings – including, though not exclusively, career firsts across the island of Ireland.
The exhibition captures women from many walks of life, ethnic backgrounds and generations, ranging in age from 19 to 95, highlighting the breadth of female achievement and lived experience.
Guests at the launch also heard powerful personal reflections from four inspirational women connected to Ulster University, representing the students, staff, researchers and community partners who make up the University community:
- Professor Laura Bradley-McCauley, Professor of Inclusive Entrepreneurship, Ulster University
- Katrina Bradley, Company Director of Numerasee, community partner with the School of Education, Ulster University alumna and 25@25 alumna
- Shelley Cowan, Ulster University postgraduate student, social entrepreneur and disability activist
- Emily Roberts, Ulster University Students’ Union President and developer of the Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (TVAWG) Charter
Reflecting on the launch, Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, Provost of Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus, said:
“At Ulster University, we are committed to taking proactive stances on equality, diversity and inclusion. Exhibitions like EMPOWER HER remind us of our responsibility – as educators, students, colleagues and community members – to support women’s advancement in tangible, meaningful ways.
"We are honoured to host the exhibition at our Derry~Londonderry campus and to welcome everyone to experience this remarkable portrait collection, showcasing women whose vision, resilience and leadership are breaking barriers and setting new standards for future generations.”
Exhibition author Linda Hanlon, working in collaboration with Maria McGrane, said:
“Having EMPOWER HER exhibited at Ulster University Derry~Londonderry feels deeply meaningful to us. This city carries a rich and complex history shaped by resilience and strength – qualities reflected in the 54 women portrayed.
“To bring their stories into a university setting, where futures are shaped and voices are formed, feels especially powerful. It serves as a reminder to students – particularly young women – that leadership, courage and impact are not distant ideals, but real and attainable paths.
“As we mark International Women’s Day, it feels particularly fitting to celebrate these trailblazers here – in a place defined by learning, possibility and renewal. This exhibition is not only a reflection of achievement, but an invitation to the next generation to step forward and shape what comes next.”
The EMPOWER HER exhibition is open in the Ulster University Derry~Londonderry Campus Library (first floor) until Sunday 15 March 2026 at 5pm.
Opening hours:
Monday–Thursday: 8.45am–9pm
Friday: 8.45am–8pm
Saturday–Sunday: 1pm–5pm
To find out more, visit the EMPOWER HER website.
