Marion wins Women into Business Award

She was presented with the award from Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry recently and chief executive of Women in Business Northern Ireland, Roseann Kelly.

The Women into Business programme, funded by Northern Ireland European Social Fund, Department of Employment and Learning (DEL) and Invest Northern Ireland, ended its seven year run at an awards ceremony in Belfast’s Grand Opera House.

The programme has provided support and assistance to women aspiring to start their own business and gain employment.

Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry said: “Diversity and inclusion is an important issue in the world of business, not least gender diversity, and my Department is proud to support the work of Women in Business NI in their drive to retain and develop female talent.

“Inspiring women is crucial if we are to maximise their potential and avoid depriving the economy of this enormous pool of talent. These awards are an excellent way to showcase individual enterprise and give recognition for their efforts and success.”

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “We have a rich seam of hard working women making a major contribution to the fabric of Northern Ireland life. I would like to commend the award winners today for the inspiring example they set.

“However there is a wealth of untapped talent which, for a variety of reasons, remains undeveloped. It is important that we look at the ways that we can share our collective experience and provide strong confident voices so that women are empowered to become the next business leaders, politicians and play their part in wider society.”

The ceremony was hosted by television presenter Sarah Clarke and Mary Keightley of Mind Associates spoke on ‘Why Optimism Wins’.