Ultrarunner and advocate for inclusivity in sport Sophie Power shares her story with Cork audience

Thu, 07 Nov, 2024 - 13:49

Network Ireland Cork, the leading organisation for women in business in Cork, hosted its final event of 2024 under the leadership of outgoing President Susana Marambio at AIB South Mall.

Titled Empowerment in Motion: Lessons from Sophie Power’s Ultrarunning Adventure, the event on Thursday night drew more than 100 and guests who gathered to celebrate a shared commitment to resilience, empowerment, and ambition.

In her last official engagement as President, Susana Marambio opened the evening by welcoming Katherine Lynch, AIB Branch Manager, to the stage. Recently appointed, the evening was Katherine’s first official event and she expressed her enthusiasm in continuing their on-going partnership with Network Cork, highlighting AIB’s dedication to ing local businesses and championing female-led initiatives.

President of Network Cork Susana Marambio with special guest speaker Sophie Power, Ultramarathon Runner & Founder of SheRACES at the Network Ireland Cork Branch November meeting titled Empowerment in Motion in AIB South Mall.

We are delighted to continue our longstanding partnership with an organisation that empowers and uplifts women in business which aligns with AIB’s commitment to fostering a ive community in Cork and across the country.

Lorraine Leahy, Vicki Creen, Katherine Lynch, Audrey Houlihan and Marguerite O’Donovan, AIB at the Network Ireland Cork Branch November meeting.

As MC for the evening, Mrs. Marambio introduced the keynote speaker Sophie Power, an internationally renowned ultrarunner and founder of SheRaces, a platform advocating for inclusivity in sport.

Michelle Johnson, ASA Brands and Vicki Creen, AIB at the Network Ireland Cork Branch November meeting.

Sophie captivated the audience with her inspirational journey which spans continents—from the challenging landscapes of Nepal, Iceland, Bhutan and the Sahara to setting a world record as the fastest woman to run the length of Ireland.

In her address, Power emphasised the transformative power of grit, determination, and community , encouraging attendees to pursue their dreams fearlessly and persistently.

Helen O’Callaghan, Kinsale, Kathy O’Dwyer, Career Training Internships, Nadine Hughes Campbell, Author of Children’s Books, Agnes Stawosz, The Hideout Café and Art Gallery and Debbie McCarthy, Kinsale at the Network Ireland Cork Branch November meeting titled Empowerment in Motion in AIB South Mall. Picture: Darragh Kane

As Network Ireland celebrates its 41st year, the evening included a special recognition segment. Marambio invited Kathy O’Dwyer, Network Cork’s longest-standing member since its foundation in 1983, to the stage. Mrs. O’Dwyer shared heartfelt insights into the organisation’s journey and the progress made for women in business over the years.

Lucy O’Donoghue, Lucy O’Donoghue Consulting, Oral McAndrew, Oral McAndrew Food and Diane Higgins, Diane Higgins, Design at the Network Ireland Cork Branch November meeting.

Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs women faced in the 1980s, Kathy remarked on the resilience of her peers and the invaluable role Network Ireland has played in ing her professional growth over the decades.

Izabela Daly, Bela Daly Photography and Sandra Looney, To Have and to Hold.

Speaking at the event, President Susana Marambio said: “Sophie’s journey reminds us of what can be accomplished when ion meets perseverance.

This evening perfectly embodies the spirit of our network—a strong, ive group of like-minded individuals, pursuing our ions with courage and lifting each other as we climb.

This memorable event was an uplifting celebration of resilience and empowerment, leaving attendees motivated to pursue their own goals and contribute to an inclusive, ive business community.