EMPOWER Cumasú Fás Programme for Female Entrepreneur Development Celebrates Successful Completion

Participants in the EMPOWER Cumasú Fás programme celebrated their achievements at a special certificate presentation ceremony held at Údarás na Gaeltachta recently.

The event featured guest speaker Siobhán Ní Ghadhra of Danú Media, who addressed the group, sharing insights on available supports from Údarás na Gaeltachta while drawing from her extensive experience in the media industry. Following her presentation, certificates were presented to all programme participants by CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Tomás Ó Síocháin.

“Údarás na Gaeltachta is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship. This isn’t just about fairness—it’s about recognising and harnessing the incredible untapped potential that exists throughout our communities. When we remove barriers and provide genuine support, we don’t just help individuals succeed; we strengthen our entire entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta.

The Cumasú Fás programme is part of the broader EMPOWER initiative, designed to support professional development and entrepreneurship for women within the Gaeltacht community. Participants completed comprehensive training which will equip them with essential skills for career advancement and business development in the Irish-speaking regions.

“This programme represents our commitment to empowering women in the Gaeltacht through practical skills development and mentorship,”. Said Michell Lee, EMPOWER Cumasú Project Coordinator  “The ceremony celebrates not just completion, but the beginning of new opportunities for our participants.”

The collaboration with Údarás na Gaeltachta and industry leaders like Siobhán Ní Ghadhra, who is also Chair of the Údarás na Gaeltacht Board and an Emmy award winning producer, demonstrates the programme’s strong community connections. Siobhán Ní Ghadhra’s presentation provided valuable insights into both institutional supports and real-world business experience, offering participants practical guidance for their future endeavours.

Looking Ahead

Building on the success of this programme, recruitment for the next EMPOWER initiatives will begin in early August 2025. Both Cumasú Tús and Cumasú Fás programmes will be offered, providing continued opportunities for professional development in the Gaeltacht region.

Those interested in applying for upcoming programmes can register their interest by emailing: empower.galwaymayo@atu.ie