Business and Professional Women (BPW ) Galway will host its annual Candle Lighting Ceremony on Friday, March 6 at 7pm in the Glenlo Abbey Hotel, bringing together businesswomen from across the city and county for an evening of connection, reflection and celebration.
The event marks a significant moment for women in business in Galway, with three of the region’s most prominent organisations - BPW Galway, Network Ireland and Galway Chamber - represented on the night. Guest speaker Karen Ronan, who serves as both National President of Network Ireland for 2026 and Chief Executive of Galway Chamber, will join attendees for a fireside chat on leadership, influence and empowerment.
The Candle Lighting Ceremony is a global BPW tradition dating back over 90 years, first conceived by BPW International founder Dr Lena Madesin Phillips. Each year, BPW clubs across more than 100 countries and five continents light candles to symbolise unity, hope and the collective commitment to advancing women’s equality worldwide.
This year’s ceremony carries additional significance. Just days after BPW Galway gathers at Glenlo Abbey Hotel, the United Nations will convene the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70 ) at its headquarters in New York from 9 to 19 March. BPW International holds consultative status with the United Nations, giving its members a direct route into global policy discussions on gender equality. The theme of CSW70 - ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls - resonates strongly with the work of businesswomen’s organisations at local level.
Aisling Kelly, President of BPW Galway, said: “We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to non-members for this year’s Candle Lighting Ceremony. If you are a woman in business in Galway, this is an opportunity to experience a truly unique evening and to connect with a powerful network that spans the globe. BPW is part of an international organisation with a presence in over 100 countries and a direct voice at the United Nations. This is about far more than one evening - it is about belonging to something bigger.”
Karen Ronan, National President of Network Ireland and CEO of Galway Chamber, said: “As CEO of Galway Chamber, I believe strong networks are the backbone of strong economies. I’m delighted to join Business Professional Women to explore how women can continue to step forward, shape strategy, and influence the future of business in our region.”
Guests will be welcomed with a prosecco reception on arrival, followed by the Candle Lighting Ceremony, the fireside chat with Karen Ronan, and a two-course dinner. Tickets are priced at €60 for BPW members and €65 for non-members.
Tickets are available now at: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/bpw-galways-candle-lighting-ceremony-in-the-glenlo-abbey-hotel-tickets-1982697007121
