#77 Empowering Female Political Aspirations in Ireland with Mairead O'Shea

Would you believe a man stepped on the moon before a female councillor was elected in County Leitrim? Yes, you read that right. It's time to spotlight the pressing issue of women's under-representation in Irish County Councils. Joining Finola this week is the ever-insightful Mairead O'Shea, who explores the male-dominated political scene and why such a drastic change is overdue.  Mairead delves into the inspiring work of See Her Elected, an initiative empowering women by igniting their confidence and skills to run for elections. Mairead unveils the complexities of balancing family life and political duties and the mental barriers that often hinder women from pursuing political roles and provides the essential steps required for a more inclusive political landscape. Key points throughout include:   Under-representation of women in County Councils  Gender Representation in government: Creating County Councils that look like us  Empowering women and minorities in politics through workshops and events Breaking through the barriers to women in politics Challenging traditional gender roles to create a more inclusive political system How women often underutilise their skills and connections  The importance of communicating your successes and skills The attributes of a great councillor  Resources: How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith https://www.howwomenrise.com/    Get connected with Mairead O'Shea:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mairead-o-shea-136a2b1a  https://www.seeherelected.ie/ Get connected with host Finola Howard:  https://www.finolahoward.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/finolahoward/ https://www.instagram.com/thisisfinolahoward https://www.facebook.com/thisisfinolahoward https://www.youtube.com/c/howgreatmarketingworks https://www.twitter.com/FinolaHoward This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com