Instead of canceling or postponing, transitioning in-person events to a virtual or online experience has become the ‘new norm’ as we continue to adjust to Government restrictions. This year has been a particularly hard year for everybody in business however Network Galway, a branch of Network Ireland, a national organisation for Women in Business, the Professions and the Arts, forged ahead and held its annual Businesswoman of the Year Awards for Network Galway last night, Wednesday 27 August, via party hosts Zoomparty.ie.
The virtual event backed by AIB Bank and supported by the Local Enterprise Office, was hosted by Network Galway President Sharon Egan and Gemma Ní Chionnaith. Proceeds from the ticket sales went to charity partners Rainbows Ireland.
The following businesswomen were selected from 21 finalists to receive awards across a number of categories:

Dolores Andrew-Gavin Celtic Soul Essence – Highly Commended in the Regional Solo Businesswoman Category.

Sinead Cassidy – Regional Winner, Transformative Employee Category.

Emily Jean Milliner – Winner, Online Business Transformation Category.

Suzanne Ryan Home Instead Senior Care Galway – Winner, Business Innovation Category.

Cepta Mahon Cookalicious – Highly commended Runner Up, Emerging New Business Category.

Aveline O’Sullivan BloominaBox – Winner, Emerging New Business Category.

Dorothy Scarry Next Step Forward – Power Within Champion.

Clare Desbonnet – Network Galway Outstanding Business Woman of the Year 2020.
With 15 branches/1200 members across the country, Network Ireland provides a forum where women can exchange ideas and increase their business contacts. Whether you are the owner of an established business, just starting out or working for an employer, the Network can help you develop your career and promote your business locally and nationally. Their membership is diverse and the organisation welcomes women from the public and private sector, entrepreneurs and employees, professionals and artists in all sectors.