Join us for the International Women’s Day Breakfast Event in partnership with Element Six on Friday, 7th March, where we’ll engage in an inspiring conversation about taking ownership, responsibility, and action to close gender barriers in the workplace and beyond.
This year’s IWD theme, ‘Accelerating Action,’ challenges us to move beyond discussion and into tangible change. Our panel discussion will feature accomplished speakers sharing their personal experiences, the challenges they’ve faced, and the steps they’ve taken—and continue to take—to break barriers and drive gender equality.
This event is open to Element Six employees and Shannon Chamber members. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion, connect with like-minded professionals, and be inspired to accelerate action for gender equality!
Meet the Panelists
Siobhán Duffy, is the Chief Executive Officer of Element Six, having been appointed in February 2023. Siobhán is the first female CEO in the history of Element Six.
Siobhán has more than 30 years of experience at Element Six, working across the organisation from production and quality control through to business management and innovation. Prior to being appointed Chief Executive, she was Executive Director for Sales & Marketing from 2018 and Executive Director, Innovation from 2014. She held a variety of senior management positions before this time, including heading the Oil & Gas business unit.
Siobhán has an MBA, as well as an Advanced Diploma in Analytical Science and an Advanced Diploma in Quality Management.
Catherina McKiernan – Ireland’s Greatest Female Distance Runner & Mindful Running Coach
Catherina McKiernan is one of Ireland’s most accomplished and celebrated long-distance runners. A former world-class marathoner and European Cross-Country Champion, she is widely regarded as Ireland’s greatest female distance runner.
Catherina first made her mark on the international stage with an unprecedented four consecutive silver medals at the World Cross Country Championships (1992-1995), showcasing her incredible endurance and competitive spirit. She then transitioned seamlessly to marathon running, winning the 1997 Berlin Marathon in a record-breaking debut time of 2:23:44—a record that still stands as the fastest marathon ever run by an Irish woman. She followed this with victories at the London and Amsterdam Marathons, cementing her status among the world’s elite.
Since retiring from competitive athletics, Catherina has dedicated herself to coaching, specialising in mindful running, injury prevention, and efficient running techniques. She delivers workshops, corporate wellness programs, and keynote talks, helping individuals of all levels improve their running performance while prioritising longevity and well-being.
Ailbhe Keane – Izzy Wheels
Multi-Award-Winning Entrepreneur, Forbes 30 Under 30, and Inspirational Speaker 🌈
Izzy Wheels began as a college project and grew into a global brand. Inspired by her sister Izzy, who has spina bifida, Ailbhe designed vibrant wheel covers to transform wheelchairs into personal statements. Their tagline: “If you can’t stand up, stand out!”
What started as a passion project went viral (16 million views in one week), leading to collaborations with Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, Barbie, and more. Featured in Vogue, Forbes, Good Morning America, and Oprah Magazine, the brand has won 20+ national awards, including The EU Prize for Women Innovators and a BBC documentary.
Ailbhe’s story is one of innovation, purpose, and breaking barriers in both business and disability representation. She speaks on Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Diversity & Inclusion, Women in Business, Marketing, E-commerce, and Leadership.
Lavinia Ryan-Duggan is pursuing a PhD in Business and Humanities at the Technological University of Shannon (TUS), focusing on empowering individuals and organisations through equity, inclusion, and leadership development. A seasoned leader from Limerick, she has over 25 years of experience working in industry and serving on voluntary boards. Deeply rooted in her local community, Lavinia understands the importance of culture, connection, and shared experiences in driving meaningful change. She blends academic research with real-world impact to support early-career women.
Lavinia has co-created transformative Women in Leadership programs, driving measurable career growth through leadership development, connection, and stakeholder engagement. A keynote speaker with the American Chamber’s women peer mentoring program, she brings expertise in career framing, influence, persuasion, and stakeholder dynamics.
Event Schedule:
🔹 8:30 AM – Networking Breakfast
🔹 9:00 – 10:00 AM – Panel Discussion: Overcoming Challenges & Driving Change
🔹 10:00 – 10:20 AM – Q&A & Audience Interaction
🔹 10:20 – 10:30 AM – Closing Remarks
Please book online to secure your place!
