Elaine Kennedy elected new president of Network Ireland Mayo

Elaine Kennedy, the founder and creator behind Hawthorn Skincare, has taken the helm as president of Network Ireland Mayo for 2024.

She has been an active member of the networking organisation since 2018 and an integral part of the branch committee since 2020.

Network Ireland Mayo empowers women to thrive personally and professionally by fostering a vibrant community that champions equality, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Through collaboration, education, and meaningful connections, they cultivate success and inspire progress in every member's journey.

A native of Kilkeeran, Partry, Elaine established Hawthorn Skincare, a brand synonymous with 100% natural skincare products.

Her journey within Network Ireland mirrors her growth as an entrepreneur, having joined the network in the same year as her company's launch.

Elaine's accomplishments include winning Mayo Solo Businesswoman of the Year in 2021 and she went on to be awarded Highly Commended in the hugely competitive national final.

Her commitment to excellence in entrepreneurship was further acknowledged when she was celebrated as the Mayo Local Enterprise Office’s ‘Leading Light’ for National Women’s Enterprise Day in 2021.

Reflecting on her new role, she stated: “As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of our branch in 2024, it is an immense honour to step into the role of president of Network Ireland Mayo.

"I am looking forward to working with our new vice-president, Lorraine Burnell, and our incoming committee. The theme for the upcoming year is 'Habits of Successful Women.' This theme resonates with the strength, resilience, and success that characterises our network.”

At their recent annual general meeting, Elaine thanked the outgoing president, Melissa Moore, for her outstanding leadership in 2023 and appointed Melissa to the role of ex-officio for the year ahead.

Lorraine Burnell, managing director of Joseph Murphy Ballina Limited, was elected as the new vice-president.

The 2024 Network Ireland Mayo committee is as follows: Ann Leonard (secretary), Judi Roche (awards co-ordinator), Dani Baumgarten (PRO), Be Rowland (treasurer), Orla Bakeberg (membership), Lorraine Hall (membership), Carmel Connor (social media) and Edel Gavan (LinkedIn).

Throughout the year, the network will host a series of engaging and interactive monthly events designed to empower women in their personal and professional lives.

They will kick off with a lunchtime workshop on Wednesday next, January 17, at The Ellison Hotel in Castlebar.

Entitled “The Power of Habit: Wellbeing Practices for Successful Women”, it will be presented by Janine van Someren of The Wellbeing Advantage.

Elaine invites women - from entrepreneurs, solo businesswomen, SMEs, corporate professionals, to aspiring leaders - to join Network Ireland Mayo and be part of a supportive network that fosters growth, collaboration, and empowerment.

For more information about becoming a member visit www.networkireland.ie or attend the upcoming workshop on January 17 at The Ellison Hotel, Castlebar.

Register in advance by contacting Elaine at president@networkmayo.com.