Supported by FBD Insurance, the event celebrated the contribution of women across the sector while also raising funds for Breast Cancer Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, more than €8,000 was raised at the event.
Keynote speaker Úna Dillon delivered an inspiring address, sharing her journey since being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2019. She spoke openly about the resilience that has helped her along the way, and the importance of gatherings like the day’s event, reminding attendees that “together, we are driving progress in the world of cancer treatment”.
She concluded with a quote she strives to live by: “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
Guests also heard from a panel discussion chaired by Dr Brian Leonard and featuring Ciara Flavin, Beatrix Killeen and Katie O’Brien.
Ciara shared her journey of taking over management of the family farm and butcher shop, encouraging young people to “ask questions, put in the work … hard work travels fast”.
Real life impact
Beatrix reflected on building a farming life alongside her husband and how challenges have shaped her resilience, noting that “every challenge is a blessing, as you overcome them, you become stronger.”
Katie spoke about growing up with spina bifida and the resilience she built over time, reminding the audience that “resilience is learned”. She encouraged women to seize opportunities, adding, “so often as women, we tend to wait to be asked to take a seat at the table. Don’t wait, pull up your own chair and sit down”.
Josephine O’Neill, Macra national president, praised the speakers and the atmosphere on the day. She said: “Our speakers today highlighted the strength and resilience of women as they overcome obstacles which may seem insurmountable, but with a supportive community and the right mindset, women can achieve their ambitions.”
She thanked attendees for their generosity and reiterated Una’s words on the importance of supporting organisations like Breast Cancer Ireland.
Macra president Josephine O'Neill and ASA president Dale Crammond, pictured with panel host Dr Brian Leonard and panellists Beatrix Killeen, Katie O’Brien, and Ciara Flavin.
Dale Crammond, president of the Agricultural Science Association, added: “I’m delighted that the ASA has partnered with Macra once again to host this lunch to mark International Women’s Day. Great events cannot happen without great partners, so sincere thanks to FBD for sponsoring our lunch today.”
Trish O’Halloran, head of sales east at FBD Insurance, said: “FBD Insurance is proud to support and partner with Macra and the ASA for events like this that celebrate the contribution women are making across agriculture and rural Ireland.
“There was just a fantastic energy in the room today, with people coming together to share experiences, make connections and support a very important cause in Breast Cancer Ireland.”
Supported by FBD Insurance, the event celebrated the contribution of women across the sector while also raising funds for Breast Cancer Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, more than €8,000 was raised at the event.
Keynote speaker Úna Dillon delivered an inspiring address, sharing her journey since being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2019. She spoke openly about the resilience that has helped her along the way, and the importance of gatherings like the day’s event, reminding attendees that “together, we are driving progress in the world of cancer treatment”.
She concluded with a quote she strives to live by: “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
Guests also heard from a panel discussion chaired by Dr Brian Leonard and featuring Ciara Flavin, Beatrix Killeen and Katie O’Brien.
Ciara shared her journey of taking over management of the family farm and butcher shop, encouraging young people to “ask questions, put in the work … hard work travels fast”.
Real life impact
Beatrix reflected on building a farming life alongside her husband and how challenges have shaped her resilience, noting that “every challenge is a blessing, as you overcome them, you become stronger.”
Katie spoke about growing up with spina bifida and the resilience she built over time, reminding the audience that “resilience is learned”. She encouraged women to seize opportunities, adding, “so often as women, we tend to wait to be asked to take a seat at the table. Don’t wait, pull up your own chair and sit down”.
Josephine O’Neill, Macra national president, praised the speakers and the atmosphere on the day. She said: “Our speakers today highlighted the strength and resilience of women as they overcome obstacles which may seem insurmountable, but with a supportive community and the right mindset, women can achieve their ambitions.”
She thanked attendees for their generosity and reiterated Una’s words on the importance of supporting organisations like Breast Cancer Ireland.
Macra president Josephine O'Neill and ASA president Dale Crammond, pictured with panel host Dr Brian Leonard and panellists Beatrix Killeen, Katie O’Brien, and Ciara Flavin.
Dale Crammond, president of the Agricultural Science Association, added: “I’m delighted that the ASA has partnered with Macra once again to host this lunch to mark International Women’s Day. Great events cannot happen without great partners, so sincere thanks to FBD for sponsoring our lunch today.”
Trish O’Halloran, head of sales east at FBD Insurance, said: “FBD Insurance is proud to support and partner with Macra and the ASA for events like this that celebrate the contribution women are making across agriculture and rural Ireland.
“There was just a fantastic energy in the room today, with people coming together to share experiences, make connections and support a very important cause in Breast Cancer Ireland.”
SHARING OPTIONS