11 motivational quotes to inspire all female leaders

Who doesn't love to hear real-life words of wisdom from women who are crushing it in business? We gather 11 motivational and thought-provoking quotes from past winners of the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards. These are the words you need to remind yourself of whenever you need a nudge of encouragement or splash of support.

“Go with your gut. My mam has always said that to me and it’s stood me well in life and business.” Aimee Connolly, founder and CEO of Sculpted by Aimee. Young Businesswoman of the Year 2022.

“To every single talented female out there – surround yourself with brilliant people that you can really learn from… Put your hand up, because very few times in your career will you be tapped on the shoulder.” Julie Ennis, CEO of corporate services, Sodexo UK & Ireland. Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2022.

Zara Flynn, Managing Director at Accenture Song and winner of the Digital & Technology category of the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2023 — Zara Flynn. Photograph: Anthony Woods

“Rock bottom teaches you more than the top of any mountain ever will.” Zara Flynn, Managing Director, Accenture Song. Digital & Technology Businesswoman of the Year 2023.

“There are no ‘no’s’ only ‘how can I’. Once you have a great idea you need to have the passion and drive to push it out in the world.” Kasha Connolly, director, Hazel Mountain Chocolate. Start-up Businesswoman of the Year 2016.

Fiona Dawson. Photograph: Kieran Harnett

“Surround yourself with diversity, not just of gender but of thought.” Fiona Dawson CBE. Lifetime Achievement Award Winner 2022.

“Live your life authentically with courage and humanity.” Caoimhe de Barra, CEO, Trócaire. Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2022.

“Role models, in my view, are the most positive message that can be sent to young women today.” Anne Harris, journalist. Lifetime Achievement Award Winner 2018.

Suzanne Jackson pictured with sponsor Richard Carney, Marketing Manager at M&S Ireland at the Image PWC Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2023.

“My mom taught me that it’s not about chasing money, it’s about chasing the dream. If you have a passion, carry on!” Suzanne Jackson, Director and Founder, SanFran Cosmetics and Cohar Ltd. Entrepreneur of the Year 2023.

“If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Onagh Chira, CEO, Platinum Hair Extensions. Young Businesswoman of the Year 2023.

Sinead McSweeney. Photograph: Kieran Harnett

“Women are at our best when we lift women up and that’s why I love IMAGE so much. IMAGE, as a group of individuals, are about lifting people up, not tearing them down, looking for the best in people.” Sinead McSweeney, MD Twitter. Overall Businesswoman of the Year Award 2019.

“Some of the best business advice I’ve received is to surround yourself with the right people, who give you good advice and also give you the right energy.” Iseult Ward, co-founder FoodCloud. Sustainability Champion of the Year Awards 2017.

Get in the room

There is immense power in bringing together the women who are succeeding in business in Ireland. It brings an opportunity for connection and celebration, alongside an electric energy that motivates everyone in the room. If this is the type of energy you need to support and supercharge your career, you won’t want to miss your chance to be in the room with this company on May 10th for the 2024 IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards.