Reflecting on my recent journey to the AIB headquarters in Dublin for the national awards, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Winning the ‘Solo Business Woman’ award at the regional finals in Limerick was a pivotal moment in my career, and attending the interviews for the national finals, alongside 89 other inspiring women was a testament to the collective strength and determination of female entrepreneurs across Ireland.
My personal story – a Journey of Resilience and Growth
In preparing for this award submission, I had to reflect on not only the successes I’ve achieved in business, but also on my own personal growth. My journey in business has been anything but conventional. As the first person in my family to start a business, I faced numerous personal and professional challenges. At 17, I left university to care for my mother, who was battling a brain tumour. After her passing, I found myself a young single mother, determined to provide a good life for my daughter. This period of adversity ignited a fire within me to succeed against the odds.
While working at GE Capital, I pursued a Diploma in Business and Marketing through distance learning. Later, I achieved a Graduateship in Marketing from the Marketing Institute of Ireland. These experiences taught me the value of perseverance and continuous learning. In 2016, I took a leap of faith and founded O’Brien Learning Solutions, a leadership development firm dedicated to helping organizations navigate change and develop leaders.
The Power of Network Ireland
Joining Network Ireland has been instrumental in my journey. The organization has provided me with invaluable support, mentoring, and networking opportunities. Through Network Ireland, I have connected with like-minded women who are equally passionate about their businesses. This community has been a source of inspiration and motivation, reminding me that I am not alone in my entrepreneurial journey.
One of the highlights of my involvement with Network Ireland was the opportunity to host Gina London on my podcast, EXTRAordinary Women. Her insights on leadership and communication have been transformative, not only for my listeners but for me personally. Additionally, mentoring sessions with the expert panel at Network Ireland, which is included with the membership fee, have helped me refine my business strategies and explore new avenues for growth.
Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead
Winning the ‘Solo Business Woman’ award is a recognition of the hard work and dedication I have poured into my business. It validates the sacrifices and efforts I have made to support my clients and serves as an inspiration to other women facing similar challenges. This award is not just a personal accolade; it is a testament to the power of self-belief and resilience.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the growth opportunities for O’Brien Learning Solutions. This year, I will begin an MSc in Work & Organisational Behaviour at the University of Limerick, which will equip me with the knowledge and skills to further expand my business. My one-year plan includes enhancing my online presence and developing e-learning capabilities to reach a global audience. Within three years, I aim to grow my business abroad and take on a full-time employee.
Three Tips for Award Applications-Readiness
Preparing for award applications involves strategic planning and self-reflection. Here are three tips to help you get ready:
– Start Early and Stay Organised: Give yourself ample time to prepare your application. This includes gathering all necessary documents, outlining your achievements, and ensuring you meet all criteria. Starting early allows you to refine your submission and seek feedback from mentors, friends or colleagues.
– Tailor Your Application: Each award has specific criteria and focuses. Make sure your application is tailored to highlight how your achievements align with the award’s objectives. Avoid generic responses and ensure that your answers are concise and directly address the questions asked.
– Gather Evidence and Tell Your Story: Back up your claims with evidence such as statistics, testimonials, or case studies. Use your narrative to connect emotionally with the judges, showcasing your journey, challenges, and the impact of your work. This makes your application more compelling and memorable.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the importance of sharing our stories to inspire and empower others. By telling my story, I hope to encourage other women to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face. The path to success is rarely straightforward, but with determination and hard work, it is possible to achieve great things.
In conclusion, winning the ‘Solo Business Woman’ award is a significant milestone in my career, but it is just the beginning. I am committed to using this platform to inspire and empower other women, and to continue driving positive change in the business community. Thank you to Network Ireland for their unwavering support, and to all the women who have been part of this journey. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future for female entrepreneurs in Ireland. I look forward to celebrating with all the finalists on the night of September 27th in the Lyrath Hotel, Co. Kilkenny.
Please contact me if I can support your journey towards becoming an award-winning success story, both at a personal and organisational level; denise@obrienlearningsolutions.ie
