Women of Vision is a series of interviews with women we admire. Visionary women are accessible and inspirational to others in daily life as mentors, friends, advisers, and role models. As part of our Women of vision series, we want to highlight the professional challenges and career aspirations of the women working here in Ireland. This doesn’t require a certain business title, specific wardrobe, or special permission. Women in Ireland have a strong entrepreneurial spirit: the rate of female early stage entrepreneurs in Ireland is the 5th highest in Europe. The agility and resilience of women in business in recent times has been a testament to their strength and courage. Today we chat with Bernadette O’ Hagan a Pretty Little Thing catwalk model and Miss Universe Ireland finalist who was chosen to be the face of the international tan brand as she embodies everything He-Shi is about – the strength and confidence to embrace all beauty unapologetically
Women of Vision is a series of interviews with women we admire. Visionary women are accessible and inspirational to others in daily life as mentors, friends, advisers, and role models. As part of our Women of vision series, we want to highlight the professional challenges and career aspirations of the women working here in Ireland. This doesn’t require a certain business title, specific wardrobe, or special permission. Women in Ireland have a strong entrepreneurial spirit: the rate of female early stage entrepreneurs in Ireland is the 5th highest in Europe. The agility and resilience of women in business in recent times has been a testament to their strength and courage. Today we chat with Bernadette O’ Hagan a Pretty Little Thing catwalk model and Miss Universe Ireland finalist who was chosen to be the face of the international tan brand as she embodies everything He-Shi is about – the strength and confidence to embrace all beauty unapologetically
Tell us a bit about you?
My name is Bernadette Hagans and I am a 26 year old from Belfast. I was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma in 2018 and lost my right leg- now live my life with a prosthetic.
Have you always been entrepreneurial?
I have always loved being creative and have always had a business mindset. I have studied business since I was in school. it has always been a passion of mine. At the minute I am currently focusing on my creative aspirations- let’s see what the future holds!
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is hard to narrow down, but I’d say my family and friends. I am so lucky to be surrounded by the most amazing people.
If any, what challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career?
With modelling, I’m not super tall and I have a prosthetic leg so at times I could be overlooked because it’s not the standard, but I think the industry is becoming a lot more inclusive. We’re starting to see real people in projects and I’m happy to be a part of that change.
What have been some make or break moments in your career?
I have had many make-or-break moments in my career- with the ‘make’ moments outshining. I have been very lucky in my career. Some of my highlights include being a runner up in Miss Northern Ireland, winning my Diana Award, helping with the One Young World project, and walking in London Fashion Week.
What is your number 1 tip for anyone struggling to overcome overwhelm to keep going?
My top tip would be to stay focused on what you want to achieve. Remember things don’t usually happen overnight so it is important to stay focused on the end goal. If you really want something, go for it! Always have it in mind what you are wanting to achieve.
