Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office hosted 22 future female entrepreneurs from Transition Year in St. Leo's College, Carlow for the Powerhouse Student Workshop. This pilot event was facilitated by Susan Hayes Culleton CFA, “The Positive Economist,” and managing director of the Hayes Culleton Group and #SavvyTeenAcademy, at the Seven Oaks Hotel in Carlow.
The workshop was dedicated to building business skills, confidence, and connections among Transition Year students, equipping them to take on future leadership roles in business. The day-long workshop empowered young women with essential skills and insights needed to succeed in the business world. Through hands-on activities, mentorship from accomplished local businesswomen, and real-world problem-solving exercises, students experienced what it takes to be a business leader.
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, expressed strong support for the event, stating: "The Powerhouse Student Workshop is a fantastic example of how we can support the next generation of female entrepreneurs in Carlow. By providing young female entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence, and inspiration they need to succeed in business.” He continued to say, “Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office is helping to lay the groundwork for a vibrant and innovative future for our community. Initiatives like this empower our youth to dream big and lead boldly, and I’m proud to see our council supporting such impactful programs.”
Melissa Doyle, coordinator of the Powerhouse Student Workshop, highlighted the impact of the event, saying: "Our goal with the Powerhouse Student Workshop is to inspire and empower young women by giving them a real taste of the business world. We want to provide students with practical skills, increased confidence, and the belief that they can be leaders in any field they choose. This event was about connecting them with local role models and showing them that successful entrepreneurship is within their reach.”
A key highlight of the day was the networking session with inspiring local female entrepreneurs. Students had the unique opportunity to hear first-hand from Emma Butler of White Meadow Interiors, Caitriona Cullen of Cullen Nurseries, and Lucy Gernon of 3Sixty Leaders Club. These entrepreneurs shared their personal journeys and invaluable advice, providing perspective and encouragement to students with dreams of pursuing business and entrepreneurship.
The Powerhouse Student Workshop marked an inspiring step forward in Carlow’s commitment to supporting young female talent in business.
Speaking about the pilot project , Kieran Comerford , Head of Economic Development & Enterprise said “"The next generation holds the key to a resilient, inclusive future and supporting women in entrepreneurship, especially in sectors shaping our world, is not only about fairness—it’s about tapping into the full spectrum of ideas, creativity, and leadership. When we uplift female entrepreneurs, we accelerate economic growth, innovation, and create a more diverse business ecosystem that reflects the needs of all society."
For more information on future Powerhouse events, please contact Melissa Doyle at mdoyle@carlowcoco.ie or 059 9129783