Esker House hosts largest International Women's Day event yet

Esker House Domestic Abuse Support Services hosted its third and most successful International Women’s Day celebration on Saturday, March 7, as 140 women gathered in the Sheraton Athlone Hotel for a powerful day of connection, reflection, empowerment, and community spirit. Esker House extended heartfelt thanks to the Sheraton team for their continued partnership and for standing proudly as Purple Hand Champions, creating a warm and dignified space for women from across the Midlands.

The event opened with a grounding meditation led by Noelle Owens, whose calm presence helped attendees “arrive fully into the space,” as se veral women described it. Her contribution created an atmosphere of safety and intention for what became Esker House’s biggest International Women’s Day event to date. Among the day’s most impactful moments was the moving testimony shared by Blathnaid Raleigh. Speaking with honesty and strength, she reflected on her own journey and reminded the room that “strength looks different for every woman, but every woman is strong in her own way.” Her words resonated deeply with attendees; many of whom said her perspective helped them acknowledge their own resilience.

Keynote speaker Miriam Hussey built on this theme by encouraging women to focus on becoming their “BEST,” offering practical tools for slowing down, minding the nervous system, and embracing moments of stillness in busy lives. Her message, that caring for one’s wellbeing is an act of courage, was met with warm applause and gratitude.

Later in the afternoon, the energy in the room soared as Athlone A Cappella, led by Hillary Roche, delivered a stunning performance that “blew the roof off the Sheraton,” as one attendee put it. Their handpicked setlist of uplifting, inspiring songs brought the entire room to life and closed the speakers’ portion of the day on a powerful high. The performance was widely praised for its harmony, heart, and the sense of joy it brought to the audience, perfectly capturing the collective spirit of empowerment that defined the event.

Throughout the event, the atmosphere was guided seamlessly by Maria Walsh MEP, who served as MC. Esker House expressed its appreciation for her long-standing support, recognising her as a significant champion for the service and for her commitment to using her platform to highlight the importance of safety, dignity, and support for women.

Community generosity played a major role in the success of the day. Numerous local businesses donated spot prizes for the event raffle, with all proceeds going directly toward strengthening Esker House’s services for women and children.

Esker House also offered special thanks to A Room in Bloom for the beautiful floral arrangements that brightened the venue, and to King of Decor, who once again donated a stunning balloon arch, marking their second year of supporting the event and helping create a warm, celebratory atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, Deirdre Berry, Head of Services at Esker House, said: “Every woman who walked through the doors today carried her own story, her own courage, and her own light. Seeing them come together in a room filled with support and joy is a powerful reminder of what community can do.”

Practice Lead and Child & Youth Coordinator Niamh Boyd echoed this sentiment, noting that “for many of the women we support, feeling seen and supported is the beginning of healing. Today was filled with moments that rebuild confidence, connection, and hope.”

Esker House expressed gratitude to every attendee, supporter, and partner who contributed to a powerful celebration honouring the resilience and strength of women. The organisation continues its vital work providing refuge accommodation, outreach support, crisis intervention, education, and advocacy for women and children experiencing domestic abuse throughout the Midlands.

Esker House Domestic Abuse Support Services Helpline: 090 647 4122 Email: info@eskerhouse.ie Website: www.eskerhouse.ie