Two Kildare women have scooped prestigious prizes at Network Ireland’s Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2024.
Melissa Hayward from Naas, owner of Hair Extension Training Ireland, was named Solo Businesswoman of the Year, while Newtown woman Julie Nicholson of Bidvest Noonan won the Employee Shining Star award.
Speaking about her achievement, Melissa said: “I am incredibly proud to receive this award. This recognition is not just for me, but for all the talented women in business across Ireland. I’m passionate about empowering others and committed to elevating industry standards through quality education.” The awards celebrate the success of women in business across eight categories, two of which were won by Kildare women. The national business networking group received a record 460 applications this year from 17 branches.
National president of Network Ireland Linda Codoul said: “It is a real thrill to celebrate the success of so many talented business women through these awards. We had an overwhelming response to this year’s call-out for entries and I’d like to thank all our members who took the time to apply. The theme of my presidency has been ‘a step ahead’ and all 90 finalists across the categories are just that. I’d like to congratulate them, and our eight winners, who have really excelled in their fields – they are worthy role models for business women throughout Ireland.”