Guest speaker Loretta Kennedy, MammaBear Foods Ltd, guest speaker Andy Mackin, CEO Mackin Group, President of Network Cork Maria Desmond, President of Cork Chamber Ronan Murray, and John O’Doherty Head of AIB Cork at the launch of Exploring Entrepreneurship. Photo: Darragh Kane

Explore entrepreneurship

Two Leeside business organisations are coming together next month to explore entrepreneurship.

Network Ireland’s Cork branch will partner with Cork Chamber for the event where attendees will have the opportunity to learn what drives entrepreneurs and explore in further detail the highs and lows of entrepreneurship from guest speakers who will discuss their own experiences.

Guest speakers on the night will be Andy Mackin, CEO of Mackin Group and Loretta Kennedy, founder of Mamabear Foods Ltd.

Ahead of the event, Mr Mackin said: “I’m honoured to be invited to speak at this joint event between Cork Chamber and Network Cork. I was asked to give an honest account about the highs and lows of being an entrepreneur and I look forward to sharing my story.”

Speaking about her appearance at the event, Ms Kennedy said: “Being an entrepreneur is about so much more than strategy. It is about being disciplined and devoted to realizing your vision and walking yourself through hard and exhilarating times. It's about navigating the rollercoaster ride that is entrepreneurship.”

President of Cork Chamber, Ronan Murray said “Entrepreneurs are essential to supporting healthy economic growth. It is more important than ever that we support a vibrant and diverse eco system for our entrepreneurs. We are delighted to support this Exploring Entrepreneurship event with Network Cork as part of our commitment to making Cork the best place for business.”

Network Cork President Maria Desmond said: “We are very grateful to Network Ireland’s official partner AIB for hosting us in South Mall next week and to Cork Chamber for partnering with us for this event. With two great speakers who have entrepreneurial passion and drive, it’s sure to be an inspiring evening.”