Network Ireland Louth members were enthralled with the stories of determination and self-belief told by the two guest speakers at their April event in the Marcy Hotel.
Linda Hanlon, a retired psychotherapist, who picked up a camera and took on a project to photograph women, in Ireland, who had pushed through personal and professional glass ceilings with determination and resilience.
Linda’s beautiful book entitled ‘EM-POWER-HER’ is produced “In Celebration of Extraordinary Women of Ireland” is a beautifully bound testament to all these wonderful ladies and Linda, in her generosity, had “one for everyone in the audience”.
One of the 54 women photographed in the book is Lisa Cusack, who was the second speaker on the night. Lisa told her story of wanting to be a pilot from the age of 13, going to Florida to get her Private Pilots Licence, and telling herself that she would be a commercial pilot by the time she was 30.
She loved aviation so much that she worked on the ramps as a young woman and even went in on her day off – she couldn’t get enough of the aviation life. Lisa went on to study Applied Physics in DCU and graduated with an honours degree, but she still wanted to pursue her dream of becoming a pilot.
It costs €120,000 to become a pilot. She saved and went to the banks looking for the money only to be refused a loan. She started a cupcake business and produced over 10,000 cupcakes in one year; such was her determination to save to achieve her dream.
Aer Lingus launched their cadetship programme and having been unsuccessful at the first attempt, she bought aptitude test books and practiced relentlessly and was successful when the programme launched again. Lisa flew her first commercial plane just 2 days before her 31st birthday.
She achieved her goal and her dream. Lisa now flies transatlantic for Aer Lingus and still loves every minute she spends in the cockpit. Her mantra is: “Work hard, Believe in yourself; Never give up”.
As part of the celebration of resilient women, Caroline Duffy, Artist and Designer, and a member of Network Ireland Louth had a gift of one of her beautiful prints with an inspirational quote on it, “for everyone in the audience”.
President Network Ireland Louth, Nicola Connolly Byrne, thanked Linda, Lisa and Caroline for sharing their stories and beautiful gifts with the members present and she described the evening as “truly inspirational”.
Nicola also reminded everyone of the forthcoming Network Ireland Louth Businesswoman of the Year Awards night which will be held in the Fairways Hotel, Dundalk, on 23rd May. All are welcome for what promises to be a night of celebration and fun. Tickets are available on www.networkireland.ie/events – Louth branch.
Network Ireland is a progressive, dynamic organisation supporting the professional and personal development of women. With over 1,200 members and a strong nationwide presence, the group holds regular events, workshops, and networking opportunities that promote empowerment and leadership for women in business. They are always open to new members joining, who can avail of all the supports and benefits available. It doesn’t matter if someone is an established businesswoman or just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey. To join Network Ireland, go to: www.networkireland.ie and ‘become a member.’
