A global entrepreneur who started her first business when she was just 23 and went on sell her majority share in it for £20m, has delivered an inspirational talk at North West Regional College (NWRC).
Lara Morgan was the keynote speaker at the College as part of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Enterprise Week 2017.
On Wednesday, as part of a special event to mark International Women’s Day she shared her steps to becoming one of the UK’s most influential business women, to a full house at NWRC’s Foyle Theatre.
Morgan, a mother of three, established her business ‘Pacific’ when she was 23, selling it 17 years later for £20m.
“Follow, your passion, it’s your show,” she told the assembled crowd of local business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs and students.
She highlighted the importance of North West Regional College’s Business Support Centre in helping and guiding new and growing enterprises.
“Find your support and never take it for granted,” she said. “Most importantly, have a go. There are people all over the world who started with nothing. Don’t ever sit at the back in life and don’t ever give up.”
And she highlighted the importance on being on top of the finances in a new or established business.
“Know your figures, if you want to be in business you need to know about finance,” she said. “Without understanding the numbers you have nothing. “
Dr Fergal Tuffy, Technology Innovation Manager with North West Regional College thanked Ms. Morgan for sharing her story.
He revealed how the College’s Business Support Centre has been supporting local business and industry through skills development, research and development.
“Take all the help you can get and don’t be afraid to ask,” he said. “Come and talk to us so we can help you find solutions and develop the ideas you have.”
Patricia Green, Chairperson of Women in Enterprise said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with North West Regional College and Derry City and Strabane District Council for this event on International Women’s Day – a day that celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. We are thrilled to have Lara Morgan, a very high profile speaker, to inspire and motivate local women especially.”
Following the session with Lara Morgan, attendees were also given the opportunity to take part in break out workshops with Social Media Trainer Louise Brogan, Career Coach Dearbhla Kelly and Business Advisor with Bank of Ireland, Roisin O’Reilly.
Ms. Morgan spent her afternoon at the college taking part in workshops with students.
