Over 100 local secondary school students gathered at Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre yesterday (Tuesday 03 March) to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026.
Organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the event brought together young people, guest speakers, and elected members for a morning of inspiration, conversation and learning, all centred on this year’s theme, Give to Gain.
Pupils from Royal School Armagh, St Ronan’s College, Lismore College, St. John the Baptist College, City of Armagh High School, St Patrick’s High School Keady and Banbridge Academy took part in the event, hearing from an inspiring line-up of speakers. The programme featured Laura O’Neill from Belfast Harbour, Philippa McShane of Armagh’s McShane Packaging Ltd, and local comedian Emer Maguire, with award-winning Irish country singer Lauren McCrory guiding the morning as host.
The event opened with Laura O’Neill, Digital Transformation Manager at Belfast Harbour, who discussed her role in driving the Smart Port vision through pioneering 5G and digital innovation, and how these technologies are reshaping the maritime sector. She was followed by Philippa McShane, Director of McShane Packaging Ltd, who reflected on leading a global family business for three decades while championing female empowerment, mentoring and community engagement.
Closing the speaker line‑up, comedian and broadcaster Emer Maguire delivered an energetic and entertaining session, blending musical comedy with storytelling and sharing her experiences as an autism advocate. The speakers and compere then took part in a panel discussion, which saw an interactive audience question and answer session.
Speaking after the event, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray said:
“I was delighted to join colleagues, speakers and students at this year’s International Women’s Day event. As Lord Mayor and one of the council’s diversity ambassadors, I am incredibly proud of the talented women who contribute to our organisation and to communities right across this borough.
“The theme, Give to Gain, reminds us of the importance of an inclusive, equitable society where everyone can thrive. Seeing so many young women engaging with our speakers was inspiring, and I hope the event encourages them to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
“Together, we can continue to advance gender equality and celebrate women’s achievements.”
Since the inaugural event in 1911, all around the world, International Women’s Day celebrates women’s achievements and highlights the ongoing need for gender equality. The 2026 theme, Give to Gain, encourages people to support, uplift and invest in others, showing how collective action and shared opportunities can create a more inclusive and equitable society.
For more information on International Women’s Day, click here.
