International Women’s Day is a United Nations–sanctioned global holiday that aims to celebrate women’s contributions to society and raise awareness to the areas of society that need to improve to reach gender equality. At No.1 Media we use it as way to amplify women’s voices and however you choose to celebrate it, we are here to listen and learn. This week we are spotlighting some of Irelands most beloved businesswomen and entrepreneurs.

Each year has an official theme, but unofficially, many people use it as a day to remember all the women that have made an impact in their lives through sharing International Women’s Day quotes, thoughtful messages, and more.

Keilidh exploded onto the Irish beauty scene in 2015 and her career has continued to skyrocket since, with highlights such as Morphe Cosmetics for their Hit The Lights Artistry Palette in 2019, which saw Keilidh appear on billboards across the US. Keilidh has collaborated with some of the world’s biggest influencers including Manny MUA (4.2m Instagram followers / 4.8m YouTube followers) and James Charles (21m Instagram followers / 21.7m YouTube followers). There is no stopping one of Irelands fastest rising stars. 

What does IWD mean to you?

It is empowering. Empowered women empower women. I think it is important to recognise and appreciate the amazing women in all our lives.

What does your role entail?

My role within KASH is mainly based around the actual makeup and the creative process. I create the products, come up with concepts for products, packaging, shoots, content etc. I really love this area and I love hearing feedback from our customers that the brand reflects my style and vibe.

What have been some of the biggest struggles and triumphs as a woman in business?

I think in general things that women like or enjoy are always played down or made out to be not as important. I remember when I said I wanted to do makeup, the reaction always was ‘oh, can you make money or a career from that?’ And now I am the one laughing. So, I think maybe just proving yourself in the business world or people taking you seriously is something women have to work a little harder on.

What skills are important to have in your sector?

I think creativity is particularly important, for me anyway! There are so many makeup brands being released, which is great, there is plenty of space for everyone! But it is making sure you stand out, and that your brand or product has its own feel.

What are the current challenges for women in your sector?

Makeup in general is a female dominated industry, so I cannot say I’ve faced challenges due to being a woman. It is just what I mentioned earlier being harder to prove yourself to people who do not understand the industry.

What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you?

I think women have been brought up to compete, as opposed to building each other up. As women, we deal with certain things and struggles that only women understand, we need to be kinder and more understanding of each other. I would be afraid that the presence of the internet and people comparing themselves to others online will affect how women treat each other. We have always been pitted against each other, and I think once you realise this your attitude towards each other changes. We should build each other up.

Describe the 3 characteristics about yourself that you believe led to your success in business.

I think my creativity is a huge part of my makeup journey. Creating unique looks allowed to stand out and build an audience of makeup mad people. This audience then allowed me to grow and start making money for myself based on my own talents and creativity. The creativity along with knowledge from working in the industry allowed me to have a unique insight when creating my own brand. I was able to see what’s missing in the industry, or what I always wanted when working on myself or other people and put a creative spin on it.

What woman has positively impacted/inspired you in your career, and what is one lesson she taught you?

I would say, my granny, she would not fully understand everything that my job entails, but she has never second guessed or questioned me once. She has always been very determined, in everything that she does, and never let anyone tell her that she can’t do anything, and that’s something I’ve definitely taken from her.

What do you do on a regular basis to celebrate your woman self?

I’m all about self-care. I love taking the time out just to focus on little things that make me feel good, such as skincare, styling my hair, applying fake tan etc. I don’t do this for anything else other than it makes me feel good!

What is a daily or weekly ritual you have that contributes to your ongoing success?

I think it is super important to plan out my week. I have got a diary now that includes work goals, but also personal goals. I find we can get so focused on our work that we forget to look after ourselves, you must look after yourself first to let yourself thrive in other areas.

What is something interesting you are currently working on? Personal or professional.

I cannot give away much but there are always very exciting sneaky bits going on behind the scenes. We have huge plans for KASH Beauty, but I’m afraid you’re going to have to wait and see.

 

by Mary-Jane O Regan