International Women's Day 2026

Member Tenant Panel: "Give to Gain — The Power of Collaboration"

In March 2026, Co-operative Housing Ireland Member Tenants came together for an online panel discussion to mark International Women's Day. Four women from across our communities shared their experiences of giving, gaining, and the power of collaboration. Listen to the full panel recording below.

About the panellists

• Lisa Kelleher Member Tenant from South Earl Street, Dublin. Lisa spoke about co-founding Shannon's Hopeline following the death of her niece, and how community generosity and the support of women helped build the charity from nothing.
• Amanda Bedford Brodie Member Tenant from Baunaclocka Heights, Limerick. Amanda shared her experiences as a mother, carer, and community volunteer, and the quiet strength that comes from asking for and offering help.
• Alma Whitla Member Tenant from Kilruddery Glen, Wicklow. Alma reflected on a lifetime of teaching and collaboration across cultures, and the everyday kindness that sustains communities across generations.
• Geraldine Martin Member Tenant from Halliday Mills, Dundalk. Geraldine spoke about her journey as a visual artist and her experiences of mental health recovery, and how women's support helped her step fully into her identity as an artist.

This panel was part of Co-operative Housing Ireland's International Women's Day 2026 programme, marking the fourth year we have celebrated IWD with our Member Tenant communities. The event explored this year's theme: "Give to Gain — The Power of Collaboration."