Networking, confidence and growth: Enterprising Women launches Autumn/Winter programme

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, pictured with from left, Christine Barnhill, MEABC, Paula Fallon, Soul Essence, Healing by Paula, Amanda Jones, Ballymena Business Centre, Karen Mulvenna, Wildflower Yogi, Kelli McRoberts, Carrickfergus Enterprise, Lucinda Graham, Galgorm Melts, Laura Calderwood, Precious Pebble Art, and Joanne Campbell, Joanne Campbell Art.

A new season of support has begun for female entrepreneurs across Mid and East Antrim, as Enterprising Women unveils its Autumn/Winter programme of events designed to inspire, connect and empower women in business.

The schedule, running until January, features a range of workshops, training sessions and networking opportunities shaped directly by member feedback.

Topics will include mindfulness, confidence building, branding and dedicated networking events, ensuring the programme reflects the needs and interests of local women in business.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, welcomed the launch, saying:

“Enterprising Women is a shining example of the positive impact that can be made when we invest in our local entrepreneurs. By supporting and connecting women across our Borough, this network is helping to build confidence, create opportunities and strengthen our local economy.

“I’m delighted to see the Autumn/Winter programme launch and look forward to seeing even more women benefit from this fantastic initiative.”

Kelli McRoberts, CEO of Carrickfergus Enterprise, which manages the network, highlighted the importance of tailoring the programme to members’ voices. She said:

“We are delighted to launch our Autumn/Winter events schedule for Enterprising Women. This year, we have put together an exciting programme of events shaped by the feedback of our members, ensuring the topics and speakers truly reflect what matters to them.

“It’s inspiring to see our network continue to grow, and I look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new members to what promises to be a fantastic season ahead.”

Local entrepreneurs are already seeing the benefits of joining the network. New member Paula Fallon, founder of Soul Essence, Healing by Paula, said:

“Having just set up my own angelic reiki healing business, I thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to meet some lovely like-minded women – and I wasn’t wrong.

“My first event was such a beautiful morning in nature. I got to meet the best group of ladies, and we shared stories, business pages and laughs. I thoroughly enjoyed the event and was made to feel so welcome by everyone.

“I am very excited about the amazing line up of events for Autumn/Winter and sharing these experiences.”

Facilitator and member Karen Mulvenna, founder of Wildflower Yogi, said she values the platform Enterprising Women provides for personal growth and collaboration.

“I became a member of Enterprising Women when I opened my yoga and wellness studio to build a valuable support network as I navigate entrepreneurship.

“I was delighted to facilitate one of my ‘Morning in Nature’ events, a beautiful opportunity for members to pause, connect and recharge. Bringing a morning of health and wellness to this entrepreneurial community was a pleasure, allowing me to support women in nurturing themselves so they could return to their businesses feeling refreshed and inspired.”

Melanie Christie-Boyle MBE, Chief Executive of Ballymena Business Centre, which partners with Carrickfergus Enterprise to deliver the programme, added:

“Ballymena Business Centre is delighted to partner with Carrickfergus Enterprise as they roll out an exciting schedule of events for local enterprising women this Autumn and Winter season. By joining forces, we provide the necessary support and inspiration to help build personal confidence and explore networking opportunities to flourish in business.”

Since its establishment in 2018, Enterprising Women has grown into a thriving network of more than 150 members across the Borough, spanning sectors including retail, tourism, artisan and professional services.

The initiative is funded by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and managed by Carrickfergus Enterprise in partnership with Ballymena Business Centre.

For more information or to join the network, visit Enterprising Women.