SheScales Case Study: Julie Connelly, Founder & CEO, AIMapit

Mapping the future with a new support network

Dr Julie Connelly is the founder of AIMapit, a computer vision spin-out from Trinity College Dublin. After having the vision to create the company, Julie wanted to build on her authority and ability to lead it. Learn how through AwakenHub’s SheScale’s programme she quietened imposter syndrome, increased her confidence, and found the strategic know-how she needed to lead AIMapit into delivering paid pilots across the UK and Europe and raising her first seed round to scale operations.

SheScales Case Study: Gina Oglesby, Founder & CEO, Back to Work Connect Connecting returners with opportunity and a founder with her voice Gina Oglesby is the powerhouse behind Back to Work Connect, a talent resourcing platform unlocking the potential of midlife returners who are ready to re-enter the workforce with skills, life experience, and fresh ambition. Her platform provides data-driven, returner-friendly recruitment solutions to employers ready to deliver on diversity and inclusion with real impact. Read how AwakenHub’s SheScales programme helped her find greater confidence and clarity while scaling her business.

There’s something special about October — the air turns crisp, the days shorten, and with them comes a renewed drive to make things happen. After the excitement of September’s fresh beginnings, October is our month to build momentum, deepen connections, and take bold steps forward together.

AwakenHub is proud to announce it has secured UK Government funding through the £1m Regional Tech Booster programme. With this support, we are launching Activate AI – an initiative designed to empower women, minority, and rural founders in Northern Ireland to embrace artificial intelligence, increase productivity, and scale their businesses. This milestone marks a significant step towards building a more inclusive and innovative tech ecosystem across the region.

Meet Helen Quinn: Certified PQ Coach + life coach helping women build “mental fitness.” Join her Positive Intelligence taster at Rise & Recharge, 26 Sept at Brook Hall, Derry.

A Season of New Beginnings: Welcoming Our Community Back

There is something about September that always feels like a fresh start. The long summer days give way to crisp mornings, and with them comes renewed energy and possibility. For us at AwakenHub, it is the perfect moment to reconnect with our extraordinary community of women founders, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

For many entrepreneurs, the spark for a new business begins with a personal journey. For Brenda Plummer, founder and owner of Perfect Pilates, that spark was her own health and wellbeing. After facing challenges that took a toll on both her body and mind, Brenda discovered the transformative power of Pilates. The positive impact was so profound that she felt compelled to share it with others, igniting a passion that has grown into a thriving enterprise.

Join AwakenHub’s live info session on the €500,000 Stelios North–South Business Cooperation Awards. Learn eligibility, criteria & tips before 16 Sept deadline.

Join AwakenHub as a Marketing & Events Associate on a year-long placement for Ulster University students. Gain hands-on experience in digital marketing, event management, and operations while supporting Ireland’s leading community for women founders. Apply via Handshake by 31 August 2025.