Sponsored
Words of wisdom from award-winning businesswomen
Sponsored By
Every year, the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards celebrate the grit and determination of Ireland’s most formidable leaders.
These women leave behind more than just successful balance sheets and expanding global footprints; they leave a trail of wisdom and hard-won lessons for those following in their stead.
From the high-stakes world of international tech to the fast-paced beauty and construction industries, these winners have navigated the same “blood, sweat, and tears” that define the entrepreneurial journey. By distilling their experiences, taken directly from their winning speeches and published reflections, we can find a masterclass in resilience, empathy and the unwavering belief required to turn a “car loan” vision into a multi-million-pound reality.
On scaling with purpose: Aimee Connolly (Overall Winner 2025)
Aimee Connolly, the force behind Sculpted by Aimee, has become a masterclass in organic growth. Her advice centres on staying close to the core mission even as the company expands globally.
“We have grown far beyond anything I could have planned… it’s about staying authentic to why you started in the first place.”
The Lesson: Growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t lose the “why” in the pursuit of the “how much”.
On pacing and resilience: Fiona Matthews (CEO of the Year 2024)
Managing Director of Applegreen, Fiona Matthews, brings a deeply human perspective to corporate leadership, emphasising that even the most successful careers have varying tempos.
“It’s okay to have moments where you’re not running at the same pace as you want to run all of the time… we’re all human. It’s so important to trust your own instinct.”
The Lesson: Longevity in leadership requires recognising your own humanity and supporting the same understanding in your team.
On leading with empathy: Emma Maye (Overall Winner 2024)
As the head of Ardale Property Group, Emma Maye proved that leadership in “tough” industries like construction doesn’t require a hard heart. She often reflects on the “blood, sweat and tears” of the early years.
“Leading with empathy isn’t a weakness; it’s how you build a team that stays with you when things get difficult.”
The Lesson: Your emotional intelligence is a valuable – I would argue, essential – leadership attribute.
On taking action: Zara Flynn (Management Professional of the Year 2023)
As the Managing Director of Accenture Song, Zara Flynn navigates the intersection of data and creativity. She believes in the power of proactive movement over waiting for the perfect moment.
“I think for women, we often wait until we’re 100% ready. You’re never 100% ready. You just have to make it happen and figure it out as you go.”
The Lesson: Don’t wait for permission or perfect readiness; the most significant growth happens when you step into the “uncertainty gap.”
On being mission-led: Karen Clince (CEO of the Year 2023)
The founder of Tigers Childcare built a powerhouse business by refusing to see herself as “just” a service provider, instead viewing her work as a vital economic and social pillar.
“You have to be strong enough to always stay true to your purpose and values, no matter what is going on around you. Trust is the foundation.”
The Lesson: When your business serves people, your values are your most important asset. If you lose your “why,” you lose your business.
On the power of the pivot: Louise Grubb (Overall Winner 2023)
A serial entrepreneur and the founder of TriviumVet, Louise Grubb famously turned a small car loan into a multi-million euro venture.
“You have to be willing to take the risk, but you also have to be disciplined enough to know when to change course.”
The Lesson: Don’t be afraid of the pivot, it’s often where the real breakthrough lives.
On owning your ambition: Chupi Sweetman (Young Businesswoman of the Year 2015)
A trailblazer for Irish design, Chupi Sweetman built her jewellery brand from a kitchen table to a global luxury name, overcoming significant early hurdles for young women in business.
“Find something you love and you’ll work so passionately because you’ll care about why… I truly believe anything is possible if you work hard enough and shape your own future.”
The Lesson: Passion isn’t just a feeling; it’s the fuel that allows you to survive the “baptism of fire” that is a startup’s early years.
On leading through uncertainty: Sinead McSweeney (Overall Winner 2022)
Having led Twitter Ireland through turbulent times, Sinead McSweeney’s wisdom focuses on the human element of corporate leadership.
“Success is rarely a straight line. It’s about how you show up on the days when the line is going down, not just when it’s going up.”
The Lesson: Character is built in the valleys, not just on the peaks.
Join the legacy: your seat at the table
These insights are more than just reflections; they are a call to action for every woman currently shaping the future of Irish business. The IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards are not merely about a trophy on a shelf; they are about joining a powerhouse alumni of mentors, innovators and glass-ceiling breakers. Whether you are leading a global corporation, scaling a disruptive start-up or championing social change, your story deserves to be heard. By applying, you don’t just nominate yourself for an award; you take your place in a community that advocates for your visibility and celebrates your grit.
If you are ready to turn your own hard-won lessons into a blueprint for others, now is the time to step forward and apply.
IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026
Closing date for applications: Monday, March 9 at 5pm
Awards Ceremony: Friday, May 15, 2026, from 6pm until late
Where: The Main Hall, RDS
Dress Code
Black Tie
Tickets
Tickets are available now through Eventbrite below, or by emailing our events team at events@image.ie.
Each ticket includes
- Welcome drinks reception and opportunity to network with Ireland’s leaders in business
- Delicious four-course dinner including wine
- Luxurious gift bag
- Special musical performance
- Opportunity to win fantastic prizes
IMAGE Business Club members have access to one special rate ticket at €385 ex. VAT, available by emailing events@image.ie. Special rate tickets are strictly limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Join the club today and get your discounted ticket.
For event terms and conditions and the booking policy, please visit HERE.
For judging criteria, please visit HERE.
If you would like to pay via invoice, please email events@image.ie.
For full category criteria and to begin your application, visit our Awards Hub.
Photography by Kieran Harnett
Also Read
