We were honoured to welcome Dr. Mary McAleese, former President of Ireland, as guest of honour at the 3rd annual Women in Business & Philanthropy Lunch at The Waldorf Hilton, London.
A thought-provoking and inspiring conversation unfolded between Dr. McAleese and Eavan Saunders, Managing Partner of Dentons in Ireland. They delved into pressing topics of diversity, equality, and inclusion, emphasising that these are not issues that can be sidelined, and how there is still much work to be done to achieve true equality. As Dr. McAleese highlighted, DEI is not owned by anybody, and no one has right to take it away. Dr. McAleese also shared powerful anecdotes and humorous personal stories about her life, illustrating the changing landscape for women in society, the evolving definition of success, and the ambition that fuels personal and societal transformation.
The lunch served as a celebration of the incredible women-led and women-focused charities that The Ireland Funds supports, with a special focus on National College of Ireland. This incredible organisation provides life-changing educational opportunities to women from disadvantaged backgrounds, empowering them to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
A huge thank you to our lead sponsor, Dentons, for their continued support, as well as to our exceptional speakers, Dr. Mary McAleese and Eavan Saunders, and our brilliant MC, Anna haugh, owner of Myrtle Restaurant. Thanks also to our Lunch Committee and to British Airways, Sheen Falls Lodge, frkl., and Shankeys for their generous raffle prizes.
Together, we raised vital funds to support initiatives that empower women, and we are grateful to all who attended, participated, and contributed to this inspiring event.
The 2026 Women in Business & Philanthropy Lunch will be taking place on Thursday 12th February. If you would like to reserve a table, please email ifgb@irelandfunds.org
Photography: Noel Mullen.
