Lessons in Leadership, Flexibility and Finding Your Tribe: Insights from the All Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference
Recently I had the privilege of attending the Women in Business All Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference - inspiring, energising, and full of honest, straight-talking insights from women who have been there, done it, and are still doing it.
We were lucky enough to hear from two incredible speakers: Alyson Hogg, entrepreneur and founder of Vita Liberata, and Sara Davies, entrepreneur, founder of Crafter's Companion and well-known from Dragon's Den. Both left a packed room with powerful messages.
Alyson Hogg: Define Your Own Success
Alyson challenged us to be honest with ourselves about what success really means to us. Not the glossy Instagram version, not someone else's definition, but our own. That message resonated deeply. In a world where comparison is constant, Alyson's words reminded us that the real power comes from clarity. If you don't know what success looks like for you, how will you know when you've got there?
She also reframed failure - not as something to fear, but as a stepping stone. It's part of the process. You fall, you learn, you move, or as someone else on a panel discussion suggested - "falling forward". She was unapologetic about the reality of entrepreneurship: you need to be hyper flexible, ready to pivot, and sometimes you'll need funding. Her advice? Get over the discomfort of asking for investment - for the sake of your business, not your pride.
Alyson left us with this: Never, ever close the doors on yourself. Simple words, but a reminder that we can often be our own biggest barrier.
Sara Davies: Passion, Vision and Drive
Sara Davies was everything you hoped she'd be: down to earth, funny, and totally authentic. She shared her story with such honesty and vulnerability that left everyone wanting to learn more.
Her biggest message? Find your tribe.....and not just one. As you grow and evolve, your tribe might change. But in those early days of starting a business, having likeminded people around you who get it, who understand the rollercoaster you're on, is invaluable. That sense of connection and shared experience can be a lifeline.
She also spoke about mindset—growth mindset in particular—and the importance of being honest, being vulnerable, and recognising that we are, in many ways, the product of the people we surround ourselves with. Surround yourself with energy-givers, not energy-drainers.
Sara's advice was both practical and empowering. Focus on what you can do, not what you can't. Be present when pitching or representing your business. Celebrate your strengths. Don't chastise yourself for the gaps - acknowledge them - but don't let them define your narrative. You are in control of that story.
Another great, yet simple, message was the power of simply speaking up. Just say it. A kind word, an acknowledgment, a piece of encouragement - it costs nothing but can absolutely make someone's day. In a world that moves fast, taking a moment to recognise others is not only powerful, it's good business.
Sara also reminded us to be empathetic - to notice and respect the differences in others. When you approach people with curiosity rather than judgment, and assume positive intent, you build better relationships. Respect breeds trust, and trust is the foundation of great teams and partnerships.
And in the spirit of one of the most memorable lines from her talk, which came from a mug gifted to her:
"She believed she could, so she did."