The Women in Business Voices of Leadership Conference welcomed over 400 delegates today at Mandela Hall, focusing on the theme of “People, Purpose, Planet.” Hosted by Donna Traynor, the event featured keynote addresses from notable leaders, including US Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III, Olympic gold medalist Hannah Scott, and First Minister Michelle O’Neill alongside deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly. They emphasized leadership driven by vision, resilience, and sustainability, with a strong commitment to advancing gender equality.

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First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Women in Business Managing Director Lorraine Acheson, and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

In partnership with Queen’s University Belfast and the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils’ Global Innovation Summit, the conference also highlighted insights from Danske Bank CEO Vicky Davies, Northern Ireland’s first Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser Professor Helen McCarthy, and Consumer Council CEO Noyona Chundur. Sponsored by NIE Networks and supported by Belfast City Council, the event explored purpose-driven leadership and its role in fostering meaningful change for people and the planet.

Managing Director Lorraine Acheson praised the gathering, stating, “The need for leaders who prioritize people and the planet has never been more critical.” Women in Business reaffirmed its commitment to empowering female leaders to create a sustainable and impactful future.