Network Ireland Kerry proudly hosted the 2026 Businesswoman of the Year Awards on Friday evening at The Rose Hotel, Tralee, where a packed audience gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in business across the county.
The event brought together members, sponsors, partners and supporters for an inspiring evening focused on recognition, leadership, connection and community.
The awards honoured excellence across a broad range of categories, highlighting the depth of talent, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within Network Ireland Kerry and the wider business community. This year’s finalists and winners reflected the growing strength and diversity of women-led enterprise and professional achievement throughout Kerry.
Inspiring Leadership and Community
Delivering the keynote address on the night was Maria Walsh, who spoke passionately about authentic leadership, resilience, inclusion and the importance of community in both business and public life. Her address resonated strongly with attendees and reinforced the evening’s themes of courage, connection and shared progress.
President of Network Ireland Kerry, Aisling Foley, reflected on the success of the event, saying:
“The energy in the room at The Rose Hotel on Friday night was absolutely electric as we celebrated the outstanding achievements of women in business from across Kerry. The calibre of this year’s finalists was truly exceptional, and the sense of support, encouragement and community throughout the evening was incredibly special. We are immensely proud of our seven branch winners and look forward to supporting them as they go on to represent Network Ireland Kerry at the Network Ireland National Awards this September in Galway.”
2026 Award Winners
The 2026 category winners were:
- Established Businesswoman: Noreen Mangan, What Women Want
- Advanced Career Employee: Cora Creed, Universal Music Group
- Emerging New Businesswoman: Josie Harty, Celtic Coastal Creations
- Solo Businesswoman: Christina Foley, Inish Living
- Creative Professional: Christine O’Donoghue de Vries, House of Kerry
- STEM Professional: Dr Sarah Morrissey Tucker, MTU
- Networker of the Year: Susan Quirke Crowley, Mounthawk Montessori School Ltd
In addition, Tara Pigott of Astellas was recognised as a Branch Finalist in the Employee Rising Star category, acknowledging her strong contribution and future potential within her field.
A Special Recognition Award was also presented to Brid McElligott of Brid McElligott Consulting Ltd in recognition of her outstanding contribution to business, community and professional life across Kerry.
A Celebration of Kerry Business
The event was expertly hosted by MC Brian Hurley, whose engaging presence brought warmth and energy to the evening.
The setting at The Rose Hotel was further enhanced by floral centrepieces created by North Kerry-based floral designer and stylist Jiska Healy of Yesca’s Flowers. Known for her elegant seasonal arrangements and sustainable approach using Irish-grown blooms wherever possible, her work added a refined and bespoke atmosphere to the celebration.
Network Ireland Kerry also extended sincere thanks to its sponsors and supporters, whose continued backing helps champion women in business across the region.
Looking Ahead
All category winners will now go forward to represent Network Ireland Kerry at the National Businesswoman of the Year Awards, which will take place in Galway this September.
Network Ireland Kerry continues to play an important role in supporting, connecting and empowering women across the county, with this year’s awards once again highlighting the ambition, innovation and impact of its members and wider network.
The organisation’s next event will take place on June 16th at Ballyseede Castle Hotel and will focus on “The Power Edit – Success without Burnout”. The event will feature Linda O’Mahony Logan of Leadership 360 and Michelle Walsh of New Body & Soul. The event is open to both members and non-members.
For more information or bookings, visit Network Ireland
