Network Ireland Mayo to celebrate International Women’s Day in style

NETWORK Ireland Mayo will mark International Women’s Day 2026 with an inspiring morning of connection, celebration and leadership at the stunning new Grace Hotel in Westport, on Thursday, March 12.

Set against the elegant backdrop of one of Westport’s most beautiful new venues, the event will bring together women from across Mayo and beyond, to celebrate achievement, resilience and the power of community in business.

The morning will feature keynote speaker Ruth Larkin, alongside a celebration of Network Ireland Mayo’s 2025 award winners - women whose ambition and innovation continue to shape the region’s business landscape. The event will also officially launch the Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026, recognising the next generation of outstanding female leaders.

The day will be expertly guided by respected Network Ireland long-time members and former national president Emma Early Murphy and Linda O’Mahony Logan (Kerry branch), ensuring an engaging and meaningful experience for all.

Speaking ahead of the event, Orla Bakeberg, president of Network Ireland Mayo, whose presidential theme for 2026 is 'Be Your Change', said: “International Women’s Day is not just about celebration - it is about courage. It is about women choosing to step forward, to back themselves and to become the change they want to see in their lives, in their businesses and their communities.

“My theme this year is ‘Be Your Change,’ and this event embodies that message, with our IWD theme of Give to Gain. When women gather in a room like this - in a space as beautiful and uplifting as the new Grace Hotel - something powerful happens. Confidence grows. Ideas spark. Support strengthens. We are not just celebrating success; we are creating momentum for what comes next.”

Registration and breakfast will begin at 8.30 a.m., with the main event commencing at 10 a.m. Lunch and dedicated networking time will follow the morning event, coming to a close at around 1 p.m., giving attendees the opportunity to build meaningful connections in the refined and welcoming surroundings of the newly opened hotel - a fitting setting for a morning dedicated to progress and possibility for all women in business and women at work.

The event is open to both members and non-members, with early booking encouraged, as places are expected to fill quickly.

Register here.