Officially launched yesterday, the Giro d'italia arriving on these shores next May is, quite simply, very good news for Ni plc - good news for sport, for tourism, for the local economy and for positioning Northern Ireland on the global stage. As 200 of the world's top cyclists take to our roads to start this iconic Grand Tour, 800 million viewers from around the world will turn to watch. Surely, this brings us an exceptional opportunity to showcase the rich cultural, tourism and economic opportunity we have to offer the international audience. i have no doubt the skill and talent alive here today will shine under this global spotlight.
Similarly, this week's investment conference is a hugely positive event in the Ni calendar and one all sectors should welcome. Testament to our growing confidence and international outlook, the conference gives a clear message - Northern Ireland is open for business.
Women in Business NI are currently gearing up to set the wheels in motion for another international event which will echo this message - the international Business Women's conference (IBWC) 2014, will show that Ni is also modern, diverse, innovative and, importantly, a hugely attractive place to invest. IBWC will take place immediately after the Giro next May. This event will bring together delegates from all communities in the north as well as Republic, European and international delegates to showcase individuals who change the face of business.
With high profile, inspirational speakers and the opportunity for networking, mentoring, round table discussion and partnership development, IBWC will both strengthen the position of local women, while building economic capacity.
Our conference will cover a diverse range of themes including, among others, leadership and motivation; diversity in economic development and the gender dividend; the impact of social media and technology and global responsibility.
We expect to welcome delegates from multiple sectors of industry and society and look forward to sharing more details of this exciting event in the months ahead. Geographically speaking we live in a relatively small region but we are capable of big things. By hosting events like the Giro d'italia and the investment conference, the Women in Business Ni message is brought to life - that by looking outward, sharing ideas and connecting with international partners, we have the ability to not only contribute to our own communities but, in fact, the global economy. n Roseann Kelly (roseann@ womeninbusinessni.com) is chief executive of Women in Business (www.womeninbusinessni.com), the largest and fastest growing business network for female entrepreneurs and senior women in management in Northern Ireland with more than 1,000 members. Follow Women in Business NI on facebook at www. facebook.com/womeninbusinessni or on twitter @wibni.