A Celebration of Global Connections

Mar 31, 2025

The World Trade Center Dublin (WTC Dublin) proudly welcomed partners, colleagues, and friends to the East Coast of the U.S. for a week filled with business activities and celebrations in honor of the 2025 St. Patrick's Day season. This dynamic series of events underscored the power of WTC Dublin's global network in forging meaningful international partnerships that drive business expansion and trade opportunities. From engaging networking events to cultural showcases, the week demonstrated how WTC Dublin strengthens its members' global reach through strategic collaborations, facilitating valuable cross-border relationships.

Some of the week's activities included:

St. Patrick's Day Parade: A Festive Kickoff Promoting Brand Recognition

The festivities began on Sunday, March 16th, when Niamh Hogan, Founder and CEO of Holos Skincare, proudly participated in the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in Scituate, Massachusetts. With SkySail at Driftway serving as a leading sponsor and WTC Dublin partner. 

WTC Dublin facilitated key connections for Niamh Hogan with business owners on Boston's south shore, fostering relationships crucial for the brand's growth in the U.S. market. Moreover, the WTC Dublin team actively distributed Holos Skincare samples to hundreds of parade spectators, significantly boosting product awareness and brand recognition. The parade, a celebration of Irish heritage, provided a powerful platform to showcase the innovation and excellence of WTC Dublin's members on an international stage, a moment of pride and accomplishment for all involved.

Irish American Partnership Breakfast Celebration: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

On Monday, March 17th, WTC Dublin was proud to be one of the sponsors at the Irish American Partnership's 30th annual St. Patrick's Day Breakfast Celebration in Boston, Massachusetts. The event, a cornerstone of Irish-American business relations, featured a keynote address by Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment, Peter Burke, TD. His remarks emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration between Ireland and the Massachusetts business community, highlighting opportunities for investment, trade expansion, and transatlantic growth. WTC Dublin's distinguished guests included Sinead Ronan, CEO of the County Kildare Chamber; Niamh Hogan, Founder and CEO of Holos Skincare; John Ging of Ballykeefe Distillery; Justin van der Spuy, CEO of Saros Consulting; and Kevin and Alicia Clancy, owners of the Galway Girl, a unique shop filled with some of Irelands best products.

The event provided a powerful platform for leaders in business and government to reaffirm their commitment to a strong and prosperous partnership, facilitating valuable global connections.

WTC Dublin Women's Networking Luncheon: Connecting Leaders

On Tuesday, March 18th, WTC Dublin hosted an exclusive women's networking luncheon, bringing together key professionals and entrepreneurs to foster collaboration, mentorship, and strategic growth. The WTC Dublin team was thrilled to welcome and introduce our outstanding colleagues, including Sinead Ronan, CEO of County Kildare Chamber, a driving force behind economic development and international trade; Allyce Najimy, CEO of the Boston Red Sox Foundation to be Named Later, a leader in philanthropy and community empowerment; Niamh Hogan, CEO of Holos Skincare; and Martina Curtin, Board Chairperson of the Irish Cultural Centre-Greater Boston and President and Co-founder of Mná Mheiriceá, a champion of Irish heritage and cultural preservation.  This gathering underscored these women's profound impact in their respective industries.

One of the most significant successes of the luncheon was the announcement that Niamh Hogan, CEO of Holos Skincare, secured a sponsorship partnership with the Red Sox Foundation—a testament to the power of meaningful connections fostered at the event. This achievement not only elevates Holos Skincare's presence in the U.S. market but also underscores the growing influence of Irish businesses on the international stage. 

The luncheon proved to be an exceptional platform for uniting and inspiring leaders, fostering collaboration, and strengthening professional networks. It also paved the way for new international trade and enterprise opportunities, inspiring the audience for future collaboration opportunities.

Premium Irish Spirits Tasting and Culinary Reception:  A Grand Finale

The week's celebrations culminated on Friday, March 21st, with an exclusive Irish spirits tasting and a culinary reception featuring Ballykeefe Distillery. Hosted by the Trade Center Management Association (TCMA) at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, DC, in collaboration with World Trade Centers DC and Dublin, the event was a resounding success. Over 60 distinguished guests, including H.E. Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ambassador of the Embassy of Ireland, USA, gathered for an evening showcasing Irish craftsmanship's excellence on a global stage.

Ballykeefe Distillery, a family-owned, farm-to-bottle distillery in Kilkenny, Ireland, presented its premier spirits to an engaged audience of potential customers, industry professionals, and key stakeholders. The tasting experience elevated the brand awareness of Ballykeefe and strengthened business connections, reinforcing the demand for high-quality Irish spirits in international markets. Complementing the whiskey and gin selections, culinary experts from the TCMA curated an exquisite menu of inspired bites, enhancing the sensory journey.

This event exemplified the value of WTC Dublin's network in creating opportunities for its members to expand their reach, engage with influential decision-makers, and position their brands for success in the U.S. and beyond. The evening celebrated Irish tradition, innovation, and the power of strategic global partnerships.

Expanding Global Trade and Strengthening Transatlantic Connections

The 2025 St. Patrick's Day celebrations highlighted WTC Dublin's commitment to fostering global connections and expanding trade opportunities through its extensive international network. By participating in high-profile events, coordinating strategic business engagements, and sponsoring cultural showcases, WTC Dublin reinforces its commitment to empowering members and partners with the tools and connections they need to thrive in global markets.

As we look ahead, WTC Dublin remains dedicated to strengthening transatlantic business ties, strategically opening new opportunities for collaboration, and championing the success of Irish enterprises worldwide. 

Sláinte to a future filled with prosperous partnerships and opportunities for global connections!

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