#FollowMyLuckyLeprechaun
Meet AwakenHub Member: Clare Neill, Founder of My Lucky Leprechaun.
Inspired by her lifelong love of leprechauns and a desire to create meaningful products for children, Clare Neill founded My Lucky Leprechaun — a brand focused on children's books and toys that encourage kindness, positive behaviour, and purposeful play.
With a background in graphic design, business management, and project leadership, Clare brings creativity and strategy together as she grows her business both in Ireland and internationally. In this feature, Clare shares her founder journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her inspiring vision for the future.
Describe yourself in 6 words or less:
Visionary, nurturing, imaginative, determined, adventurous, loving
Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start it:
I've adored leprechauns since childhood, but when searching for a charming one for my own two kids, I was disappointed by the limited options. The leprechaun books I found lacked the heartfelt messages I believe make a great children's story, leaving me inspired to create something better.
Tell us a little bit more about you:
I’m a seasoned graphic designer with a strong background in business management, project coordination, and team leadership. Originally from Kilkenny and now based in Wicklow, I balance entrepreneurship with family life alongside my American husband and two young children. My transition to freelance work stemmed from a desire for flexibility, but it has also deepened my expertise in running a business, managing projects, and fostering strong professional relationships. With a keen eye for design and a natural ability to connect with people, I bring both creativity and strategic thinking to everything I do.
Your Female Founder Journey:
My journey as a female founder has been more challenging than I anticipated, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Along the way, I've gained invaluable skills that will continue to serve me in the future. While there are things I would approach differently if I were to start over, I've had meaningful successes, and I'm focused on building upon them as I move forward.
Being a female founder means navigating unique obstacles, but it also brings a sense of resilience and adaptability. The journey has taught me the importance of persistence, creative problem-solving, and trusting my instincts. Despite the challenges, the experience has strengthened my confidence and reinforced my passion for bringing meaningful ideas to life.
Why have you joined AwakenHub?
I've joined AwakenHub because I believe in continuous learning and growth. Surrounding myself with like-minded founders gives me access to knowledge, connections, and inspiration that help shape my business journey. Whether through mentorship, networking, or simply exchanging stories, being part of this community empowers me to take my business to the next level.
Do you have an ‘ask’ for fellow AwakenHubbers?
I’d love to connect with founders who have successfully brought a product to retail, especially in the U.S. market. Anyone in the tourist product industry, or with experience navigating distribution, retail partnerships, or marketing in the toy or children's book industry would be wonderful. I’d really appreciate any insights or advice.
As a founder, what are your non-negotiables?
As a founder, I am driven by creativity, integrity, and perseverance. My mission is to build products with purpose—ones that inspire, uplift, and leave a lasting impact. Authenticity and quality are at the core of everything I create. When I set out to develop a children's product, my goal was to nurture kindness in young minds. Now, I’m expanding that vision through books and toys that encourage positive behaviour and meaningful learning. I believe in the power of purposeful play.
I find inspiration in visionaries who turn ideas into reality, especially those who use their work to uplift and empower others. Entrepreneurship has taught me that resilience is essential, and one phrase I live by is: “Keep moving forward.” Challenges will always arise, but success is built on adaptability, persistence, and a deep belief in the impact of what we create.
Where do you see yourself in 12 months and 5 years?
In 12 months, I see myself with a stronger foothold in retail, having successfully launched new products that inspire kindness and positive behaviour in children. My brand will be expanding, reaching more families, and I’ll have made valuable connections with founders who have navigated the U.S. market. I’ll be refining my approach to distribution, learning from experience, and growing my network to take my business to the next level.
In 5 years, I see my brand firmly established, with my toys and books stocked in major retail stores and embraced by families worldwide. My products will be recognised for their meaningful impact, and I’ll have built a thriving business that aligns with my vision. I’ll have expanded my product line, possibly collaborated with like-minded creators, and continued to innovate in ways that inspire children. Most importantly, I’ll be doing work that fulfils me—creating purposeful products that make a difference.
Top Three Tips for Other Women Founders:
Build connections. Learning from fellow entrepreneurs, especially in my industry, has been invaluable.
Stay resilient. Progress takes time—pivot when needed and keep moving forward.
Prioritise fitness. Staying active keeps my mind clear, boosts decision-making, and helps me push through challenges.
Six Words to Live By:
Dream big. Stay kind. Keep going.
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