Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade organised its annual International Women's Day lunch at Killeavy Castle. More than 200 business representatives attended the event. Guests took part in a drinks reception before moving to the pavilion for speakers, a three-course meal and live music.

Keynote speaker Valene Kane, a Newry-born actor and writer, joined a fireside chat. MC Deborah Loughran, managing director of King Communication and a Newry Chamber board member, led three panel discussions on the theme Give To Gain.

The first panel included Libby Shackels, curriculum director at Southern Regional College; Susan Smyth, private client practice director at KPMG Ireland; and Aine Larkin, clinical director at Younique Medical Aesthetics Clinic. Sponsors were KPMG Ireland, Southern Regional College and Younique Aesthetics Clinic.

A second panel featured head girls and senior leaders from St. Mary’s, Sacred Heart, St. Paul’s, Our Lady’s and Newry High School. The final panel had five female Newry Chamber board members who oversee about 1,000 local jobs. They covered the chamber's efforts on gender equality and opportunities for women in business.

Live music came from Geraldine O’Doherty, principal harpist with RTÉ Concert Orchestra; Joanne Quigley-McParland, artistic director of Newry Chamber Music; and local singer-songwriter CeeV.

A raffle raised £3,000 for Parkinson’s UK and Breast Mates Newry. Prizes came from local businesses including Younique Aesthetics, Killeavy Castle, DELI LITES, Canal Court Hotel, Jack Murphy Jewellers, Buttercrane Centre and Bank Bistro & Bar.

Conor Patterson, president of Newry Chamber, expressed gratitude for the event that celebrated women's achievements and supported change. Lee Campbell, principal and CEO of Southern Regional College, noted pride in initiatives for female learners. Marie Farrell, tax partner at KPMG Ireland, highlighted commitment to women in the workplace. Aine Larkin described the event as inspiring amid local women's strength.