This International Womens Day, we're highlighting the inspiring women that make up the CUBS community. We speak to staff, students and alumni about this year's theme of Inspire Inclusion, and what it means to them.
Dr. Olive McCarthy, Senior lecturer, Department of Food Business & Development and Centre for Co-operative Studies
What you do
Although I teach and do research on co-operative businesses of all types, I’m probably best known for my research work with credit unions and my interests in financial inclusion more generally, including moneylending and the importance of access to and acceptance of cash. The outputs of some of this research have had a direct and demonstrable impact on changing legislation, influencing government policy and supporting credit union governance and practice. I am a regular contributor to media interviews, blogs and podcasts as a means of disseminating research findings beyond academia to where they can be of most benefit. I’m also currently serving a third 3-year appointment by the Minister for Finance to the statutory Credit Union Advisory Committee.
The importance of IWD to you
The theme of IWD 2024 is “Inspire Inclusion”. As co-operatives are inherently and fundamentally about inclusion of all those who need their services, this year’s theme closely resonates with my academic work. Many of the first credit unions in Ireland were inspired by and founded by women and involved women in democratic ownership and decision-making at a time when they were often largely excluded by institutional, political, social and economic forces. Their legacy in supporting the empowerment and financial inclusion of women is inspiring and shows how gender equality can be accelerated through collaboration, co-operation, and most importantly, opportunity.
AJ Nagle - Student MSc Sustainable Development, Agri-food and Co-operatives
My academic journey includes a BSc in Political Science and a Diploma in Business Studies with a focus on Law and Politics. Beyond my coursework, I've been actively involved in diverse areas during my time at UCC, particularly in student societies and the Students Union.
Having served as the Disability Rights Representative on the Students Union and co-founded the Co-operative and Community Action Society, I currently hold the position of Vice Chairperson at the Global Justice Society and the position of Secretary on the Students Union Steering Committee . International Women's Day took on a deeper significance for me in my 20s, as I began to appreciate the incredible, accomplished women around me on a daily basis. Witnessing their achievements, I also observed a common thread of self-doubt among many.
This year's International Women's Day theme, #InspireInclusion, resonates deeply with me. Women, especially those from minority backgrounds, often find themselves marginalized in various aspects of life. As a disabled woman hailing from a low socio-economic background, I firmly believe that inspiring inclusion should be a focal point for creating a diverse and intersectional society.
For far too long, we've relied on the same voices shaping our culture, industry, governance, and society. The call for inspiring inclusion seeks to ensure that no one is left on the sidelines anymore. Regardless of gender, race, religion, socio-economic background, sexuality, or age, there's a place for everyone, and everyone matters. It's time to embrace a future where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is a guiding principle.
Trish O Shaughnessy, School Manager, CUBS
Trish is School Manager in Cork University Business School and works with the Dean of School and senior management to drive the strategic development of the School. She provides leadership and management to all professional staff and support services within the School, ensuring students experience an exceptional level of service. Trish is an active participant on the CUBS Leadership Board, , Academic Development and Standards Committee, and the EDI Committee.
Trish is a proud UCC alumnus and holds an MBA and a Higher Diploma in Coaching Psychology.
The importance of International Women’s day to me
For me International Women's Day serves as a source of inspiration and empowerment for women in professional staff services within academia, especially for those facing obstacles or barriers in their professional journey. It provides a public platform for recognition, advocacy and inspiration, enabling women to connect with peers, share experiences, and navigate the unique challenges they may face in their careers.
Ana Maria Silva - PhD Candidate, Department of Management and Marketing
What you do
Originally from Lisbon, Portugal, I moved to Cork, Ireland in October 2022 to start my PhD studies. My research is focused on hybrid work and its implications for innovation practices. I am an awardee of the 2023 Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship. I am a published author and I am part of the editorial team of The Boolean Journal, an online postgraduate journal whose aim is to highlight the exciting and diverse range of doctoral research carried out at UCC and share it with a general audience. I am also a PhD representative for my department (Management and Marketing), being a point of contact between the PhD students and the department.
The importance of IWD to you
International Women’s Day marks the ongoing journey towards gender equality. As a PhD student, this day serves as a moment to celebrate the achievements of women scholars and educators while recognising the challenges they face. Having my career ahead of me, I am inspired to continuously promote inclusivity in academia by valuing and celebrating differences.
Marion Cantillon - PhD Candidate, Department of Food Business & Development
My PhD research focuses on mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from livestock systems.My goal is to find workable solutions that will not only solve environmental issues but also offer real financial benefits for farmers via farm level Marginal Abatement Cost Curves. I want to significantly influence farm-level decision-making and contribute to the larger endeavor of reducing climate change in the agriculture sector by drawing attention to the interplay of environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness.
Importance of IWD to Me:
It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and celebrating the achievements of women across all disciplines in the university. Within the CUBS section specifically, there are numerous exceptional women who are contributing outstanding work and making significant strides in their respective fields.Throughout my academic journey, I have been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by brilliant women who are true game-changers. These women have served as mentors, role models, and sources of inspiration, shaping my academic pursuits and fueling my passion for research. International Women's Day is an opportunity to honor their contributions and to reflect on the progress made towards gender equality while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.
Roisin Downing - Manager, Postgraduate Programmes
“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” Einstein
The theme for International Women's Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion, which is very relevant to CUBS where we aim to create an inclusive, diverse learning environment while fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for our students graduates and staff.
Prakriti Dasgupta - PhD Candidate, Department of Management and Marketing
What you do
My research looks at Work and Algorithmic Management in the Platform Economy. I believe that with the pervasiveness of such non-standard platform work arrangements, this research holds immediate implications for the adoption of algorithms in more traditional work formats as well, with potential consequences for labour standards/protection in organisational practice.
The importance of IWD and the theme of inspired inclusion to you
This day serves as a powerful reminder of the strides women have made in various fields. It prompts reflection on furthering inclusivity, and the collaborative efforts needed to ensure that women from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to excel in the academic realm.
Mary-Kate O’Mahony - Student MSc Management and Marketing
My name is Mary-Kate O’Mahony, I’m from Rosscarbery in West Cork and as well as completing my undergraduate degree in UCC, I am now a Masters student studying Management and Marketing. I really love being a part of CUBS, for both being a student, a class rep and as part of the social media team.
For me, International Women's Day is so important as it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the empowerment of women worldwide. As a woman in business, even though we have come so far I think there is so much more that could be done to fully understand the significance of fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity within the corporate landscape. The theme of "inspired inclusion" resonates deeply with me, as it emphasizes the need to create environments where every voice is heard and valued, especially for women. Today’s world is ever changing and evolving, and I think it's so important for everyone to acknowledge this in order to drive change.
Aoife Mangan, Bcomm Graduate, Marketing Manager at National Beauty Distribution
As Marketing Manager, my role is pivotal in shaping how our brands are perceived and embraced by consumers. I oversee the creation of brand identities for all our own brands. This involves crafting brand personas, defining target audiences, conducting thorough market research, and developing strong brand guidelines. Additionally, I spearhead the creation of all Marketing & PR campaigns, a task that is both exhilarating and challenging within the dynamic beauty industry. It is key for me to be brave and authentic with all of our marketing efforts, to position our brands as market leaders and trailblazers, while also deeply resonating with our customers. I aim to position our brands as pioneers and market leaders while also fostering a community built on trust and loyalty. My passion for the beauty industry fuels my work, and enables me to create meaningful & memorable connections with our target audiences.
The importance of IWD and the theme of inspired inclusion to you
As a woman in business, International Women's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made in terms of women's rights and gender equality. It's a day to celebrate the achievements of women in various fields and to recognise the contributions they've made to society despite facing numerous challenges and barriers along the way. For me personally, as a woman in business, the theme of "inspired inclusion" resonates deeply. It's about creating a culture where women feel empowered to speak up, take on leadership roles, and contribute their unique perspectives and talents to drive innovation and success. Working in a female-led industry fills me with immense pride and gratitude. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege to work with many brilliant, resilient and strong women who I have learnt so much from, who have supported me and always continue to inspire me.
Kritika Bhargava - Student MSc Business Analytics
I am Kritika Bhargava from India, currently pursuing a master’s in business analytics at CUBS in UCC. International Women's Day reminds me that women possess the extraordinary ability to multitask and excel in various roles in every field. Throughout my life, I've witnessed my mother's dedication to making the lives of those around her better. Her relentless hard work has truly been an inspiration for me, and she is one of the reasons I am here today, as an international student, managing my studies, household chores, and work effortlessly.
As a woman studying business, I believe it gives a fair chance to get ready to contribute in representing women equally in the outside world. This enables inclusion at multiple levels, which gives confidence to every woman out there and sets a path for others to follow.
Just as my mother supports me every time, I am sure every person has one woman who supports them through thick and thin. So, let's take this Women's Day to express gratitude to the incredible women in our lives who contribute to making lives happier and more meaningful, as well as to the women who created that path for us to follow to lead to significant milestones.
Emma Coffey - BComm Graduate and Quercus Scholar. Student Entrepreneur of the Year 2023. Founder and Director of FinalBend, Co-Founder of UGC.ie
What you do
My entrepreneurial journey began at 17, when I launched FinalBend, an innovative athletics wear brand, as a way to stay connected to sport after becoming injured. Although FinalBend started as a hobby, now, six years later, it has transformed into a thriving Cork based business with its USP rooted in sustainability. At the heart of FinalBend’s ethos is the desire to make sustainable activewear accessible and affordable, challenging the notion that consumers must choose between cost and environmental responsibility. In 2023 I expanded my entrepreneurial portfolio with the addition of UGC.ie, a digital platform I co-founded with my sister, dedicated to user-generated content. UGC.ie bridges a gap in digital marketing, working with over 100 Irish SMEs to create genuine user focused video content that resonates in today's digital marketplace. Our extensive network of hundreds of content creators enables brands to easily showcase their product or service in the hands of someone who represents their target audience.
The importance of IWD and the theme of inspired inclusion to you
International Women's Day holds a special significance for me, symbolizing both the progress we've made and the challenges that lie ahead. Inspired inclusion speaks directly to my experiences as often the youngest and sometimes the only female in the boardroom. Growing up with three sisters, where my father was the minority, taught me early on the importance of raising my voice to be heard. This lesson has been invaluable in my journey as a woman in business, a realm where being female can still, unfortunately, be a distinguishing factor. I've witnessed firsthand how speaking up can transform perspectives and foster an environment where minority voices are not just heard but valued. I am immensely privileged to have been granted the opportunity to represent my corner of the business world, carrying the responsibility and fortune that comes with it. It is crucial for women to continue speaking up, ensuring our voices contribute to the narrative of inclusion and diversity. As we celebrate International Women's Day, lets remember the power of our voices and the strength found in unity.
Dr Gillian Barrett, Lecturer, Department of Management and Marketing
What you do
I teach management and entrepreneurship to undergraduate and postgraduate students at University College Cork (UCC). I am the Programme Director for the Postgraduate Certificate in Project Management and Certificate/Diploma in Management Practice programmes. My research interests include innovation management, open innovation, and entrepreneurship in the small and medium sized enterprise (SME) context. Much of my time is also spent mentoring and supporting students wishing to develop their entrepreneurship skills. Furthermore, I am faculty advisor for the UCC Enactus society (Enactus mission is to develop socially minded young leaders of the future). I feel privileged in my role. Prior to academia, I worked for fifteen years in industry in a variety of senior management and leadership roles including IT project management.
The importance of IWD and the theme of inspired inclusion to you
For me, International Women’s Day is a celebration, for those women who inspire inclusion today and tomorrow, by challenging and pushing boundaries, making the world in which we live a better place for all. I celebrate two special women in my life who personally inspire me every day – my daughter and my Mum. I celebrate their talents, values, honesty, good humour and beauty.
Dr Bernadette Power, Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Business, Dept. of Economics
What you do
As a sustainable business researcher I strive to understand how businesses thrive, innovate, and grow in a sustainable and responsible way for the long-term benefit of individuals, businesses, the planet and society in Ireland and internationally.
The importance of International Womens Day and the theme of inspired inclusion to you
International Women’s day is a wonderful celebration of the achievements of women in all walks of life. Acknowledging the important contribution of women to society is so important in my view to inspire and empower younger generations and particularly young women or maginalised groups to contribute and be heard and to champion and lead change in our society for the benefit of all.