Dundalk Institute of Technology recently held an event to celebrate some of the wonderful international female staff and students in honour of International Women’s Day.

Over 70 people came together for the celebration, including DkIT staff and students and representatives from the local community.

The coffee morning event, hosted by TV and radio presenter Anna Daly, put the spotlight on just some of the international women of DkIT, delving into their personal stories and exploring their experiences of coming to live, study and work in Ireland.  

Speakers included undergraduate students Blessing Ehinmisan and Veronika Hrazska, Postgraduate student Ester Balgova, PHD student Mugdha Srivastava and staff members Ana Panero Gomez and Inta Ergle, who recounted their stories of growing up across the world and adapting to the Irish culture.

Topics of discussion included challenges in academia and career development, the importance of mentorship and support for international women, adapting to a new culture and making connections in unfamiliar places.

Ana and Inta, both staff members, spoke about the decisions they made to make their move to Ireland permanent and how they have come to embrace the country as home.

Speaking at the event, DkIT lecturer Ana Panero Gomez shared:

"With great job opportunities in academia, Ireland felt like a great move. Starting a career in communications in another language was challenging, and the culture and language gaps are always present. But I thrive on the challenge, breaking down those gaps every day. I believe mentorship for international women is key to helping them navigate and embrace local life."

For the student speakers, the decision to study in Ireland was a key topic of discussion, particularly their experiences of moving to a new country without their usual support network.

Blessing Ehinmisan, a third-year Marketing student at DkIT, shared:

"I wasn't prepared for the cold, and my luggage hadn't even arrived when I first got here so it was a difficult start. However, despite the challenges, the personal touch at DkIT and the warmth of the Irish people made all the difference. Their help, trust, and spirit make me feel right at home."