Aspire Women’s Network – Continuing the Journey
Building on the success of the Women in Leadership Programme, Impact Network NI, in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, is leading the development and delivery of the Aspire Women’s Network – creating an ongoing legacy that enables women across the Borough to remain connected, continue supporting one another and access opportunities to learn, develop and grow.
Developed in response to the women themselves and their desire to continue the relationships and momentum established through Women in Leadership, Aspire provides a more informal, welcoming and meaningful space where women can continue their personal and leadership journeys together.
Upcoming Event – Inspirational Women Series
Impact Network NI, in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, invites women from across Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough to the next Aspire Women’s Network event and the latest conversation in the Inspirational Women Series.
Special Guest Speaker – Allie Ford
With over 30 years’ experience in theatre and television as an actress, voice-over artist and public speaker, Allie Ford knows the power of a good story.
Now a Humanist Celebrant, Allie brings warmth, authenticity and plenty of personality to everything she does. She will share her own journey, experiences and reflections on finding your voice, embracing opportunities and having the confidence to step forward.
Expect an uplifting and relaxed conversation filled with inspiration, connection and, of course, a bit of craic!
Date: Tuesday 22 September 2026
Time: 11am–1pm (lunch included)
Location: Yarn Suite, Mossley Mill, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, BT36 5QA
Places are limited. To register your interest, E. emma@impactnetworkni.org
The Network provides a varied programme of opportunities designed around the interests and needs of its members, including:
- Networking and Relationship Building – creating meaningful connections and a strong support network among women across the Borough.
- Lunch & Learn Events – informal opportunities to come together, learn, share experiences and explore topics that matter to women.
- Personal and Leadership Development – continuing to build confidence, self-esteem, resilience and leadership potential.
- Upskilling and Peer Learning – sharing knowledge, experiences and skills while learning from and supporting one another.
- Mentoring Opportunities – encouraging women to benefit from the experience of others and, in turn, use their own experiences to support other women.
- Self-Care and Wellbeing – recognising that personal wellbeing and resilience are important foundations for confidence, growth and effective leadership.
- Inspirational Speakers and Shared Experiences – hearing from women with diverse experiences, journeys and achievements who can inspire and encourage others.
- New Opportunities – encouraging women to step forward, set new goals and consider leadership, employment, volunteering, mentoring and other roles within their communities and wider society.
At the heart of Aspire is a commitment to creating a lasting legacy from Women in Leadership. Rather than the journey ending when a formal programme or qualification is completed, Aspire provides an opportunity for women to stay connected and continue developing as part of a growing and supportive community.
Every woman’s journey is different. For some, Aspire may provide the encouragement to rebuild confidence or recognise strengths they did not previously see in themselves. For others, it may provide the connections and opportunities needed to take their next step into leadership, employment, volunteering, mentoring or greater roles and responsibilities.
Ultimately, Aspire is about women supporting women – creating an environment where they can encourage one another, celebrate achievements, share challenges and have the confidence to set their sights higher.
Connect. Inspire. Empower. Aspire.
The Story So Far
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Lead, Lunch, Learn Event - 9 October 2025
The Women into Leadership Programme was officially launched at a special Lead, Lunch, Learn event at Mossley Mill, bringing together women from across Antrim and Newtownabbey to celebrate confidence, empowerment and leadership.
Hosted by Wendy Kerr from Impact Network NI, the event featured an inspiring panel discussion with local Council leaders and officers, who shared their experiences, challenges and advice on developing a successful leadership journey.
The event provided an opportunity for participants to connect, learn from women at different stages of their careers and explore what leadership can look like in both professional and community life.
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Women into Leadership Graduation | Royal Visit - 3 March 2026
The Women into Leadership Programme celebrated the achievements of its graduates with a special Graduation Ceremony at Randalstown Library, attended by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh.
A strong advocate for women in leadership, The Duchess met with participants and heard about their experiences of the programme, which was established by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The visit provided a fitting opportunity to celebrate the achievements, confidence and leadership skills developed by the women throughout the programme, as well as the lasting connections created through the Women’s Network established as part of the initiative.
Randalstown's Royal Visit
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Aspire Women's Network Lunch and Learn - 7 July 2026
The Aspire Women’s Network was launched with a special event bringing together inspiring women from across Antrim and Newtownabbey to connect, share experiences and support one another.
Delivered by Impact Network NI in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the event brought together women from community organisations, businesses, public services and local communities, with an inspiring keynote from Sarah of Ted & Stitch.
The launch marked the beginning of an ongoing network, with future opportunities including networking events, Lunch & Learn sessions and personal and professional development opportunities for women across the Borough.
Aspire Women’s Network Launch
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Aspire Women's Network Lunch and Learn - 25 August 2026
The Aspire Women’s Network continues to bring women from across Antrim and Newtownabbey together through a programme of networking, learning and personal development opportunities.
A recent Lunch & Learn event focused on self-care, mindfulness and breathwork, giving participants the opportunity to step away from the demands of everyday life and explore practical ways to support their wellbeing, manage stress and build greater self-awareness.
The event also provided an opportunity for women to connect, share experiences and support one another, reflecting the ethos at the heart of Aspire: Connecting Women, Building Confidence and Creating Opportunities.
Aspire Women’s Network – Lunch & Learn
Get in Touch
To find out more about the Women in Leadership Programme E. wendy@impactnetworkni.org or stefanie.buchanan@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk