Invigorating our minds and prioritising a culture of wellbeing in the workplace took centre stage at the Mallusk Enterprise Park Health & Wellbeing Day, funded by Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council Go Succeed NI business support programme. This Go Succeed NI programme, powered by the UK Levelling Up Fund, is a major investment in local businesses.
On April 9th, local entrepreneurs across Antrim and Newtownabbey were treated to a day in Mallusk Enterprise Hub and the chance to listen to and learn from two inspiring guest speakers who delved into the critical topics of business wellbeing, communication, personal branding and mindfulness, Billy Dixon and Cathy Davey. Their expertise shed light on the importance of prioritising mental health and fostering a mindful work environment.
I, Mia McCreesh, a Marketing Trainee of Mallusk Enterprise Park, student of Belfast Met and attendee of the Health and Wellbeing Day unpack, in this blog, my first ever blog, my key takeaways and explore what I learned on how we can all integrate mindfulness practices into our daily routines, both in and out of the office!
Want to learn more about the Go Succeed programme? You can head to the Go Succeed – NI Business Support (go-succeed.com) to find out more.
Welcoming Wellbeing into Business: Strategies for a Thriving Workplace
Billy Dixon (Photo credit: John, Sperrins Photography)
Billy Dixon – Speaker, Personal Brand Consultant—Ambassador for Invisible Traffick (anti-human trafficking charity), shared his expertise on a range of topics crucial for business wellbeing. These included communications, tone of voice, posture, attitudes, behaviours, motivations, passions, body language, confidence, trust, quality, resilience, talent, and ability.
I personally found Billy charismatic and entertaining, his storytelling ability, and his wit was inspiring and appealing to me and the audience as you can see from the picture our professional photographer John snapped. Billy focused on the crucial role of acknowledging and understanding individuals within the workplace. He stressed the importance of making people feel seen and heard, a concept that goes beyond simply listening. It involves actively acknowledging their presence and their contributions.
Billy says: “Interpersonal communications skills are more important than intelligence.”:
Billy emphasised the value of strong interpersonal skills and highlighted how interpersonal skills are the glue that holds successful interactions together. Interpersonal skills often go hand-in-hand with emotional intelligence, allowing you to be sensitive to others’ feelings, manage conflict effectively, and build rapport even in challenging circumstances.
An important key take away that I vividly remember Billy speak about, was that our body language speaks volumes, even before we utter a word. The way you hold yourself and the way you say something can subconsciously influence how others view you and how receptive they are to your message. Billy touched on the importance of maintaining good posture as it projects confidence and openness, while a monotone voice can drain the life out of even the most interesting content. Alternatively, what stood out to me was when Billy communicated that ultimately, dressing up is not just about the external appearance—it’s about how it makes you feel internally. By investing time and effort into your appearance, you’re investing in your own confidence and wellbeing.
Another takeaway from this keynote that I take away is: “Don’t give the negativity the mic” – Billy explained that the constant loop of negative thoughts fuels stress hormones, leaving you drained and anxious and further leaving you into a depressive mindset as it warps your perception, making it harder to see the good, and declines your motivation, which in hindsight hinders your ability to move forward. Billy acknowledged that you shouldn’t let negativity continue but instead learn to manage your thoughts and emotions. At all times you can rewrite the script and create a healthier, happier life. Billy’s ideas and approaches will stay with you for a long time and he has encouraged myself to expand my comfort zone.
If you’re looking to connect with Billy Dixon and support his work, you can find him on LinkedIn here: Billy Dixon – LinkedIn
The Power of Presence: Cultivating Mindfulness in the Workplace
Cathy Mahon Davey pictured with self employed Business Mentor Rosemary Morrison and Mallusk Enterprise Park Business Advisor Louise Parkes capturing the moment (Photo credit: a photo of a photo by John, Sperrins Photography)
AMBEST Mindfulness Coaching was born from a transformative journey. The founder, Cathy Mahon Davey, not only pursued qualification as a Mindfulness Teacher, founding AMBEST Mindfulness Coaching, but also became a founder of Menopause NI. Menopause NI strives to ensure all women have access to information and resources they need to navigate this stage of life.
The founder’s passion for empowering teams, honed during their business career, encompassing the corporate world, motherhood, and even unforeseen emotional challenges, fuel their belief in mindfulness as a powerful strategy for positive change, regardless of life stage.
Premenopause, the years leading up to menopause, can be a time of significant change both physically and emotionally. Fluctuating hormones can trigger stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Cathy demonstrated that mindfulness becomes a powerful tool during this transition. By quieting the mind and focusing on the present moment, she showed us that you can develop greater awareness of your thoughts and feelings without judgement. Cathy informed the audience that this allows you to manage emotional swings more effectively and cultivate inner peace. Additionally, she contested that mindfulness practices like meditation can improve sleep quality and reduce stress hormones, leading to a more balanced and resilient state as you navigate premenopausal.
Cathy Mahon-Davey advises us all that “Taking a few minutes out of your day to be mindful can be very beneficial.”
Cathy Mahon-Davey emphasised that practicing mindfulness fosters emotional resilience and regulation, and can act as an aid in managing tough situations calmly. She stated that this clarity and focus enhances concentration and productivity by countering the detrimental effects of rumination, as discussed in her talk. As Cathy Mahon-Davey began teaching the audience about mindfulness, her guided mediation talked us through the process, which in my opinion was the most relaxing 15 minutes of my life, genuinely. I learned a lot through the mediation, I learned how to control my breathing and become more aware of my thoughts and to let them pass by naturally. All in all, afterwards I felt a calmer mind, a more relaxed body, increased focus, clarity, and a greater sense of empathy and compassion. This is something I need to put into practice greatly during my day to day life as the benefits you reap are extraordinary.
Cathy Mahon-Davy signifies, that getting caught up in the past or fretting about the future steals our present moment, the only time we can truly influence. Letting go of past regrets and anxieties about what’s to come frees us to fully engage with the here and now. This allows us to savour life’s experiences, make conscious choices, and navigate challenges with a clear mind and a sense of purpose.
Cathy also emphasised the importance of stepping back from the busy-ness of your mind to observe thoughts and feelings without judgement, you gain newfound clarity and peace. This awareness is said to enable conscious choices, effective emotion management, and the ability to navigate challenges with clarity. Reacting impulsively in the heat of the moment can lead to regrettable words and actions. The power lies in the pause. Listening without judgment creates a safe space for open communication, Cathy Davy-Mahon greatly accentuated. When someone feels heard and accepted, they’re more likely to express themselves freely and honestly. This allows for deeper understanding, stronger connections, and the potential to resolve conflict more effectively.
If you want to learn more about Ambest Life, who they are and what they offer, you can check out their About Us page here: Ambest Life – About Us
Event was catered by social enterprise café at Mallusk Enterprise Park: B Social Deli
(Photo credit: John, Sperrins Photography & Photo credit: Chiho, Oranga Creative Instagram)
Emma Garrett, CEO of Mallusk Enterprise Park, announced the launch of B Social Deli in December 2023, aimed at supporting paid upskill and employment opportunities to the local community. The deli provides a range of sit in, take away and catering platters during café opening hours, Monday to Friday, 8am to 3pm.
The catering for the event included a charcuterie board, homemade soup, sandwiches, fruit and breakfast pots and the delegate feedback was highly positive. I personally enjoyed the charcuterie board – especially the olives!
Want to find out more about the B Social Deli and what is on offer? Connect with us on Facebook! or Explore our Instagram page!
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM attended the Go Succeed NI Health and Wellbeing Day at Mallusk Enterprise Park
Pictured at the Health and Wellbeing Day in Mallusk Enterprise Hub are from left to right: Iain Patterson, Chairman of Mallusk Enterprise Park, Emma Garrett, CEO, Colleen McAreavey, Business Development Manager, Steve Pollard, Board Member, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Mark Cooper, BEM, Keynote Speakers: Billy Dixon, Cathy Mahon Davey and Louise Parkes, Business Advisor
(Photo credit: John, Sperrins Photography)
At the Mallusk Enterprise Park Health & Wellbeing Day, supported by the Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Go Succeed NI business support program, prioritising workplace wellbeing was the focal point. The Mayor took the time to greet a number of event attendees as well as the keynote speakers and therapists, underlining the council’s commitment to fostering a culture of health and wellness in local businesses.
It was an honour to meet the The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper, BEM. My first impression of him was that he was very welcoming and respectful and I enjoyed conversing with him, as he had many bright ideas and outlooks on everything. His integrity stood out to me and his genuine interest in individuals left a positive lasting impression on me. His dedication to supporting local initiatives, such as this Health & Wellbeing Day, reflects a deep-rooted commitment to the betterment of the Antrim and Newtownabbey borough. His approachability and eagerness to engage with everyone showcased his genuine care for the people he represents. It was inspiring to witness his passion for making a positive difference in the community.
He commented that my placement for the course that I am currently studying adds to my skills and he stated that marketing was a very good field to go into!
Attendees at the Health and Wellbeing Day at Mallusk Enterprise Hub availed of alternative therapy Taster Sessions provided by local entrepreneur’s and mentees of the Go Succeed NI programme
Emma Garrett, CEO of Mallusk Enterprise Park, Julie Tully (Alternative Therapist, founder of Harmony Hub and Mentee of Go Succeed NI business start up and growth support programme) chatted to Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor, Councillor Mark Cooper, BEM about her local holistic business (Photo credit: John, Sperrins Photography)
Lorraine Cairns, who runs Amethyst NI Holistics, and Julie Tully from Harmony Hub, were integral parts of the Health and Wellbeing Day hosted at Mallusk Enterprise Hub. Lorraine’s expertise lies in reflexology, a practice deeply rooted in the idea that specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying targeted pressure to these points, Lorraine aims to alleviate tension, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
Julie Tully, on the other hand, is known for her proficiency in Reiki, a gentle yet powerful energy healing technique originating from Japan. Reiki involves the practitioner laying their hands on or near the recipient’s body, facilitating the flow of universal life force energy to promote relaxation, balance, and overall wellbeing.
During the event, Lorraine and Julie likely offered attendees short taster sessions of their respective therapies. These sessions, housed in the private small meeting / huddle rooms in Mallusk Enterprise Hub provided individuals with a first-hand experience of the profound relaxation and rejuvenation that holistic treatments can offer. The private huddle rooms in Mallusk Enterprise Hub provided the perfect setting for these sessions, ensuring privacy and tranquillity for participants to fully immerse themselves in the complimentary taster experiences.
If you’re looking to enhance your well-being and experience the benefits of holistic therapies, do connect with Lorraine Cairns at Amethyst Holistics NI and Julie Tully at The Harmony Hub.
Discover the soothing touch of reflexology with Lorraine by visiting her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AmethystHolisticsNI/.
Alternatively, experience the healing power of Reiki with Julie by exploring her website at https://www.theharmonyhubni.co.uk/.
If you availed of a taster session and enjoyed your experience then do consider leaving your Therapist a positive review on Google.
To keep up to date with the events available for local entrepreneurs and businesses at Mallusk Enterprise Hub follow Mallusk Enterprise Park on Eventbrite: Mallusk Enterprise Park Events and Tickets | Eventbrite or sign up to receive the e-newsletter on the Mallusk website.
About Go Succeed NI
Go Succeed NI, the new NI Business Support Service, is funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. This plan represents a substantial investment in local entrepreneurs and businesses worth millions of pounds. Go Succeed, supported by Northern Ireland’s 11 local councils, offers a range of important services such as mentorship, masterclasses, peer networks, and grant funding, all aimed at empowering and assisting the entrepreneurial community. This collaborative initiative between Northern Ireland’s councils and the UK government’s Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities reflects a shared commitment to encouraging economic growth and opportunity in Northern Ireland. Mentoring and training on the engage, foundation and grow strands of Go Succeed NI is delivered by Mallusk Enterprise Park for entrepreneurs, businesses and social enterprises across Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough and for established businesses looking for growth across the Mid and East Antrim borough council area.
Whether you’re refining your business idea or need help establishing a customised strategy, go to Go Succeed Start | NI Business Support (go-succeed.com)
About Mallusk Enterprise Park
Emma Garrett, Colleen McAreavey. Design credit: Ruth Stephens, Marketing Angel via Canva.com
Mallusk Enterprise Park is a member of Enterprise Northern Ireland. Enterprise Northern Ireland represents the Local Enterprise Agencies across the province. Enterprise Northern Ireland has been responsible for delivering national contracts with various public sector organisations, with contracts delivered primarily by the member agencies. Programmes include:
– Exploring Enterprise
– Go Succeed NI
– Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund
– Start Up Loans
Our organisation which runs a business park, renting commercial workspace (industrial and office units), meeting , training and conference facilities, business support admin services, a postal service to entrepreneurs working from home and social enterprise cafe, B Social Deli, holds charitable status which means that surplus profits made through our property rental and social enterprise activities are re-invested back into the local community via free advice and support to individuals considering self-employment.
About Mallusk Enterprise Hub
Mallusk Enterprise Hub is a custom built facility within Mallusk Enterprise Park which offers co-working space, private meeting rooms and conference facilities.
About the Organisers of the Event
I’d like to take a moment to give a massive shout out to the amazing organisers on the Mallusk Enterprise Team, Emma Garrett, Colleen McAreavey, Louise Parkes, Laura Templeton, Geraldine Robinson, Monika Szewczyk, the BSocial Deli staff and I’d like to give credit to my mentor Christine Watson and Marketing Angel Ruth for their involvement in the event planning and promotion as well. I would like the team to know that I admire each and every one of them, I see that you are all great at what you do and everything I’ve learned has benefited me greatly for my placement experience here at the Mallusk Enterprise Park and for my student portfolio as a Trainee Marketer.
The dedication and hard work made the Health and Wellbeing event for businesses an incredible success. From the detailed planning to the flawless execution, the efforts paid off. With thanks to you all and to the funders behind the event for going above and beyond to create an unforgettable experience for all of us.
About Me
My name is Mia McCreesh, I’m currently a student at Belfast Metropolitan College, where I’m studying my degree in Business Data Management. During this time, I’ve had the privilege of pursuing my placement at Mallusk Enterprise Park, where I first started on Monday the 26th of February. Upon arriving at the Social Enterprise, I received a warm welcome from the delightful staff, who were not only brilliant but also incredibly helpful. Stepping into this new work environment, I felt a bit unsettled and nervous on my first day, unsure of how things operated in day-to-day work life. However, to my pleasant surprise, everyone at the Social Enterprise was cooperative and took the time to explain things to me in detail. Their guidance and support each week helped me settle in smoothly. Most importantly, I approached my time here with eagerness to learn and discover something new every day, which filled me with a sense of wonder and excitement, keeping me engaged and motivated throughout my journey.
I have learned a lot of new skills during my time here, and I’m thrilled to be able to use them in the future when it comes to fulfilling my career in marketing. Here at Mallusk Enterprise Park, I had the pleasure of working closely with Christine Watson, a Chartered Marketer and former elected Chair of the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ireland region. She took me under her wing, serving as a mentor and offering invaluable guidance. Working alongside her, I soaked up a wealth of knowledge and experience that I know will serve me well in my future endeavours.
This marks the debut of my very first blog, chronicling my experiences and learnings as I journey through my placement at Mallusk Enterprise Park.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor, Councillor Mark Cooper, BEM and myself, Mia McCreesh, having a delightful chat at B Social Deli. Diving into my placement experiences and the ins and outs of my course. It was truly a pleasant opportunity to connect with Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor, Councillor Mark Cooper, BEM, his feedback was not only valuable but also incredibly motivating.
Blog created on 10 April 2024, edited and published on 23 April 2024.