On Friday September 13th, Terenure Enterprise Centre proudly celebrated 40 years of community and enterprise. This milestone was not just a reflection of the past, but a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the amazing people who have contributed to our thriving community over the years.
The event, expertly emceed by former TEC business member Paula Maher, Managing Director of Care at Home, brought together a wide array of people - community members, entrepreneurs, and supporters - who have been pivotal in shaping the Centre’s legacy.
Welcome Address by Chairperson Edie Wynne and Founding Member Tom Menton
The event began with a warm welcome address from our Chairperson, Edie Wynne, and Founding Member and current Director, Tom Menton. Their speeches were deeply moving as they shared their reflections on the Centre’s remarkable journey over the past four decades. Edie spoke passionately about the Centre’s evolving role in fostering community connections and supporting local enterprises, while Tom recalled the vision that led to the Centre’s creation. Their words highlighted not only the Centre’s humble beginnings but also its enduring impact on Terenure’s community spirit and economic growth.
Opening Address by the Lord Mayor of Dublin
We were honoured to have the Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan, open the event with a powerful and inspiring speech. He acknowledged the Centre's remarkable contribution to the local community and its positive impact on enterprise development. His words set the tone for the day: one of pride, community spirit, and hope for the future.
Community Impact Panel: Stories of Connection & Growth
One of the highlights of the event was the Community Impact Panel, featuring members of our Active IT Society; Liz Phelan, Barbara Atkinson and Rita Gallagher. These individuals shared their incredible stories of personal growth, detailing how digital skills training and social activities at the Centre have transformed their lives. The panel’s stories resonated with everyone in the room, serving as a reminder of how integral community support and lifelong learning are to personal and collective development.
Enterprise Impact Panel: Entrepreneurs’ Success Stories
Another memorable part of the celebration was hearing from entrepreneurs both past and present who have found success through Terenure Enterprise Centre. Ina Broderick (Broderick's Brothers), Paul Davis (Davis Events), Colm Rooney (Shopper Intelligence) and Gigi Corcoran (Audio/Visual Translator) shared stories of perseverance, innovation, and growth underscoring the importance of the Centre as a launchpad for small and established businesses and start-ups. The panel was a testament to the Centre’s enduring role in fostering enterprise and entrepreneurship in Dublin.
Screening of “40 Years of Terenure Enterprise Centre”
One of the event’s most poignant moments was the screening of a special video titled “40 Years of Terenure Enterprise Centre”. This video took attendees on a nostalgic journey, showcasing the Centre’s beginnings, the milestones it has reached, and the people whose dedication and passion have shaped its legacy. The video can be viewed below.
Appreciation Presentations: Honouring Dedication
A special moment of the day was the appreciation presentations, where we had the privilege of honouring a group of outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Centre. Awards went to founding member and current Director Tom Menton, first Manager and current Director Pauline Doyle, Caretaker Gadji Toutounov and the members of the Active IT Society Committee, Liz Phelan, Aine Costelloe, Mary Deane, Rita Gallagher, Anne Harte, Jim Kenny, Sandra Laing and Eileen McLoughlin. Their dedication, hard work, and passion have helped shape Terenure Enterprise Centre into the vibrant hub it is today, and we were delighted to recognise their contributions.
The event concluded with a toast and birthday cake cutting, allowing attendees to connect and celebrate together. The energy in the room was electric, filled with shared memories, laughter, and optimism for the future.
As we look ahead to the future, we remain deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey over the past 40 years. Here’s to many more years of community and enterprise at Terenure Enterprise Centre! Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event truly special.
We would like to thank the following for their support of our event:
Paula Maher, Managing Director of Care at Home
Leah Fairman, Liam Horan & Stephen Carolan at Connected Hubs
Lisa Rowntree & the team at ACE Enterprise Park
Stefano Messori & the team at The Edge
Ronan Whitty & the team at The Mill Enterprise Hub
Sonya Murphy Lyons & Matilda at Mezzo Music Academy
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