Soroptimist International of Ireland celebrates resilience and inspiration in Mayo
Despite the challenges brought by Storm Amy over 140 Soroptimist members and guests gathered in Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar, for the Soroptimist International Republic of Ireland (SIROI) Friendship Weekend, hosted by National President Anne O’Sullivan.
Originally planned as a weekend of activities across Castlebar, the arrival of Storm Amy forced a complete pivot, with Friday’s festivities cancelled and the event moving indoors to Breaffy House Resort, where proceedings began by candlelight due to a power outage.
Undeterred, spirits were high as broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan joined the almost 80 women assembled to open what became a truly memorable and meaningful weekend.
Saturday marked the highlight of the event, beginning with the National Association meeting and followed by a full conference attended by representatives from every soroptimist club across Ireland, joined by members from Northern Ireland.
The conference opened with a panel discussion hosted by Aisling Nolan, CEO of St James’s Hospital Foundation and SIROI National Communications Officer, exploring the theme ‘Remarkable Women, Extraordinary Impact: Stories of Strength and Success.’
The panel featured four exceptional women: Niamh Ryan, Co-founder of Ella & Jo; Martina Jennings, CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice; Teresa McGuire, counsellor and Death Doula; and Dr Áine Lawlor, former CEO of the Teaching Council of Ireland.
Together they shared deeply personal stories of resilience, success, leadership, and purpose.
From Niamh’s reflections on self-celebration and confidence, to Martina’s emotional journey through charity leadership, Teresa’s wisdom on life and mortality, and Áine’s humour and humility in recounting her career — the panel was a standout moment of insight, laughter, and inspiration.
The afternoon session featured a special in-conversation between Dr. Mary McAleese and broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan, where warmth, honesty, and friendship filled the room.
The intimate dialogue touched on family, faith, leadership, loss, and hope — offering a rare glimpse into Dr. McAleese’s reflections on life and legacy. She urged soroptimists to “never grow complacent on the big issues,” reminding all present that “the work of championing causes and pushing for progress is never done.”
A central highlight of the day was Ava Jackson, a 22-year-old master’s student and former Transition Year participant of the Girls’ Conference project pioneered by soroptimists in Castlebar.
Ava shared how that early experience shaped her confidence, voice and ambition, a testament to the lasting impact of SIROI’s work with young women.
The keynote address came from Professor Roseanne Kenny, Regius Professor of Physic at Trinity College Dublin, who spoke on “Aging Well” - sharing the science of longevity, wellbeing, and the powerful role of female friendship in health.
She later joined Aisling Nolan for a fireside chat delving deeper into leadership, resilience, and the science of connection.
The evening culminated in a gala dinner where SIROI Brand Ambassador Louise Duffy, fresh from her IMRO Silver Award for Radio DJ of the Year, led post-dinner toasts.
Over 110 soroptimists, guests, and local dignitaries celebrated friendship, service, and the spirit of optimism that defines the movement.
Reflecting on the weekend, President Anne O’Sullivan said: “This weekend showed the very best of who we are — adaptable, connected, and full of joy. Despite the storm, we came together by candlelight, in friendship and purpose. The stories, conversations, and laughter shared in Breaffy will stay with us for a long time.”
Aisling Nolan, National PR & Communications who helped curate the conference programme, added: “Every woman who spoke this weekend brought her own extraordinary energy and truth. From the national to the personal, the message was the same — women’s voices matter, friendship sustains us, and our impact grows when we lift each other up.”
Soroptimist International Republic of Ireland (SIROI) is part of Soroptimist International, a global volunteer movement of over 70,000 women working across more than 100 countries to transform the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment, and advocacy.
Soroptimist International holds General Consultative Status at the United Nations (ECOSOC), one of the highest levels of recognition for a non-governmental organisation, allowing it to influence global policy and champion gender equality, human rights, and sustainable development at the highest international levels.
Across Ireland, SIROI clubs deliver local, national, and international projects that empower women, promote education, and support leadership and advocacy.
For more information, visit here, or follow Soroptimist Ireland on social media.