A sell-out crowd gathered at Ulster University’s Coleraine campus last week for the CelebrateHER Conference, recognising the achievements, leadership and influence of women across business, community and the arts.
Delivered in partnership between Enterprise Causeway and Ulster University, the International Women’s Day event welcomed more than 250 attendees for a programme of keynote talks, discussion and networking. The event was supported by Go Succeed, delivered by Northern Ireland’s eleven councils and funded by the UK Government.
The conference was hosted by Digg Mama and Digg for Success founder, and Ulster University graduate, Caroline O’Neill, who returned to campus to lead the day’s programme.
Keynote speakers included Breda McCague, leadership and mindset expert and CEO of AIMING4AWESOME Ltd; Laura Rainey, founder of Hope + Light, which supports women and children affected by human trafficking; and Tina McKenzie MBE, entrepreneur and Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses Policy & Advocacy Board.
A panel discussion brought together several speakers with strong Ulster University connections, including graduates Grace Smith, founder of Forge Female Fitness and Workforce Wellness, and Sara O’Neill, artist and founder of Éadach. They were joined by Ulster University Honorary Graduate Dr Agnes Lunny OBE, CEO of Positive Futures, and internationally acclaimed actress and singer Jayne Wisener.
Together, the panel shared insights on leadership, resilience, creativity and the many ways women are shaping their own paths across different industries.
Reflecting on the event, Jayne Taggart, CEO of Enterprise Causeway, said:
“Alongside our partners at Ulster University, we are committed to making CelebrateHER an unforgettable, high-calibre annual conference – one that empowers women to push boundaries, embrace leadership and celebrate their achievements with pride. Events of this scale and diversity are few and far between for the North Coast, so it’s a true honour for us to develop this annual International Women’s Day event.
“This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, is a powerful reminder of the responsibility on us all to collaborate and continue support advancements towards gender equality.”
Kathy Morrow, Alumni Engagement Manager at Ulster University, added:
“CelebrateHER gives powerful recognition to the vital contribution of women’s leadership in our communities, in business and at every level in our society. It was wonderful to see so many Ulster University alumni returning to campus as speakers and attendees for such an uplifting and inspiring event.”
The CelebrateHER conference forms part of a wider programme of events hosted by Ulster University to mark International Women’s Day, including initiatives such as Empower Her and Give to Gain, which celebrate the achievements of women while encouraging conversations around equality, leadership and opportunity.
