Mná Na Mara: Celebrating Achievements, Fostering Innovation, and Preserving Maritime Heritage

WestBIC is an Enterprise Ireland partner providing hands-on startup support, funding readiness and investment preparation for early-stage founders in the west of Ireland.

WestBIC and the BEAP-MAR Blue Bioeconomy project were proudly represented by Colleen Baxter at the inaugural Mná na Mara (Women of the Sea) event, hosted by Údarás na Gaeltachta.

The gathering celebrated the achievements of women in the marine sector, while highlighting the importance of innovation and the preservation of Ireland’s rich maritime heritage.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from Siobhán Ní Ghadhra, Chairperson of Údarás na Gaeltachta, who underscored the significance of the event as a platform to showcase female leadership and drive conversations around the future of the maritime sector.

Newly appointed Minister of State for the Marine, Fisheries, and Digital Mapping, Timmy Dooley TD, followed with opening remarks, emphasizing the need for collaboration across the sector. He noted that the marine industry in Ireland is not merely surviving but thriving through partnerships and cooperation.

The keynote address was delivered by Marie Gleeson, who served as one of the first women in the Irish nacy and has over 25 years of maritime domain experience. Marie’s personal and professional journey captivated attendees as she spoke about coming from a farming background and her transition to the Irish Navy, which was both unconventional and inspiring.

Marie highlighted the demanding nature of leadership at sea, stating,
“You can’t make your decisions in an ivory tower.”

She stressed the importance of trust and truth as the foundation of effective leadership, describing herself as a custodian of her organisation’s values.
Her message to aspiring female leaders resonated deeply: “May we be them; may we see them, may we make them.”

The day progressed with three engaging panel discussions.

The first panel “Leading Tomorrow: Excellence in Maritime Education & Research” brought together notable figures such as Dr. Orla Flynn (ATU), Dr. Anne Marie Power (University of Galway), Evelyn O’Toole (CLS), Captain Sinéad Reen (National Maritime College of Ireland), and Margaret Rae (Konree Innovation).

Each shared their unique journeys and insights into leadership within the marine and science sectors.
Evelyn O’Toole reflected on her entrepreneurial journey, focusing on resilience and positivity despite challenges, followed by Margaret Rae who spoke about her introduction to the marine industry and the importance of confidence when pitching for investment.
Dr. Anne Marie Power detailed the growing presence of women in scientific research since the 1990s and Dr. Orla Flynn highlighted the sector’s innovation potential, while Captain Sinéad Reen spoke passionately about the vast opportunities available in the marine industry.

The second panel “Leading the Tide: Building Sustainable Marine Sectors” facilitated by Dr. Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute, examined the intersection of policy, strategic planning, and innovation.
Government and industry representatives explored EU policy developments and regulatory frameworks, focusing on supporting sustainable growth in the marine sector.

Panel 3, “Coastal Heritage: Where Tradition Meets Innovation” featured a bilingual discussion in Irish and English. Contributors from the Aran Islands, Waterford, Dublin, and Gaeltacht regions shared their perspectives on integrating technology with traditional practices.

The panel emphasized sustainability, self-sufficiency, and the need to inspire the next generation to view the marine sector as a viable career path. Attendees discussed how technology could bridge generational gaps while preserving heritage.

The event concluded with reflections on the power of relationships. The attendees were reminded that small introductions and conversations often spark significant opportunities.

Mná na Mara was a celebration of women’s leadership, a call for continued innovation, and a reminder that Ireland’s maritime heritage remains a source of strength and inspiration.

WestBIC, through the BEAP-MAR Blue Bioeconomy project, remains committed to supporting this vision, fostering collaboration, and empowering the next generation of marine leaders.

If you want to learn more about BEAP-MAR visit https://beap-mar.eu/ or find us on LinkedIn.