Business leaders, entrepreneurs and community representatives gathered in Belfast on Thursday for the launch of Permission Granted: A Call-to-Action Playbook for Women Entrepreneurs by internationally recognised entrepreneurship expert Professor Maura McAdam of Dublin City University.
Hosted by leading recruitment and workforce solutions company Staffline Recruitment Ireland, the event explored the realities of entrepreneurship, the barriers still facing female founders, and the importance of confidence, resilience and community in business leadership.
Speaking at the event, Staffline CEO Tina McKenzie MBE said:
“Entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth and social mobility, but too many women still face barriers around confidence, visibility and access to opportunity. Maura’s book shines an important light on those challenges while also providing practical and empowering solutions. It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout for a conversation that resonates with so many women in business.”
Professor Maura McAdam said:
“The aim of Permission Granted is to challenge outdated narratives around entrepreneurship and encourage women to recognise that they do not need external permission to pursue ambitious goals. The conversations on the night reinforced how important it is to create spaces where women can share experiences, learn from one another and build confidence together.”
The event also featured a contribution from Hope and Light founder Laura Rainey, who spoke about the organisation’s work supporting survivors of trafficking through outreach, advocacy and social enterprise initiatives.
Laura Rainey said:
“It was incredibly powerful to be part of an evening centred around courage, confidence and women supporting one another. At Hope and Light, we see every day the importance of creating opportunities, restoring confidence and helping women rebuild their futures, so the themes of the evening resonated deeply with our mission.”
Maura McAdam’s new book draws on more than 30,000 hours of research and interviews with over 300 women entrepreneurs worldwide, providing practical guidance and evidence-based strategies designed to support women in starting and scaling businesses.