Derry Chamber has announced two high-profile entrepreneurship panels for its 68th President’s Annual Dinner, bringing together a diverse line-up of business leaders and emerging entrepreneurs from across the North West.

Sponsored by NIE Networks, taking place on Friday 2nd October at the Everglades Hotel, the Chamber’s flagship annual event will shine a spotlight on the breadth of local entrepreneurship in the region, showcasing the ambition and innovation driving businesses at every stage of their journey.

The two panels will explore both Established entrepreneurship and Early Development entrepreneurship. Panels will be chaired by broadcaster Lynette Faye, offering guests an insight into the different experiences, challenges and opportunities involved in building and scaling a successful business.

The Established Entrepreneurship Panel will feature John Harkin OBE of Alchemy. John has played a key role in Alchemy’s growth as a Global Centre of Excellence within NTT DATA’s Global Insurance practice, while continuing to champion long-term investment and socio-economic impact in the North West.

The Early Development Entrepreneurship Panel will bring together Stephen Toland of ConsultTed, Finneen Bradley of WonderLeap, Noma Tholo of Cultural Staffing Solutions, Clare Hamilton of Influencer Hub and Barry Carlin of HeadDial.

Stephen Toland, an award-winning pharmacist and co-founder of ConsultTed, brings more than 15 years’ experience in pharmacy and healthcare to the development of a new technology platform that helps pharmacies earn recognition for expert care and ensures pharmacies maximise profits associated with over-the-counter consultations. Finneen Bradley, an award-winning careers professional with more than 20 years’ experience, founded WonderLeap to help young learners explore careers and broaden their aspirations from an early age.

Noma Tholo is developing Cultural Staffing Solutions, delivering culturally adaptive healthcare training and management solutions designed to improve patient outcomes and staff retention. Clare Hamilton co-founded Influencer Hub, an online platform helping businesses and content creators manage and measure collaborations, while Barry Carlin is leading HeadDial, a data-driven platform focused on measuring and developing mental performance.

Representing a new generation of entrepreneurial businesses, the panel reflects the increasingly diverse sectors in which entrepreneurs across the region are developing innovative ideas and bringing them to market, from healthcare and education to digital platforms and mental performance.

The discussion will provide an opportunity to hear directly from entrepreneurs at an earlier stage of development about their experiences of turning ideas into businesses, identifying opportunities and building the foundations for future growth.

Derry Chamber President Steven Lindsay said:

“Entrepreneurship is at the heart of a successful regional economy, and this year’s President’s Annual Dinner gives us a great opportunity to showcase the depth and diversity of leading businesses across the North West.

“We wanted to bring together voices from different stages of the entrepreneurial journey – from businesses that have established a global presence to entrepreneurs who are developing new ideas and building their businesses today. Their experiences will provide valuable insight into the ambition and innovation that exists right across our business community.”

The panels form part of an evening which will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, elected representatives and key stakeholders from across the region for an evening of networking, celebration and discussion.

The 68th President’s Annual Dinner will be hosted by broadcaster Lynette Fay and is proudly sponsored by NIE Networks. Guests will enjoy a drinks reception, four-course dinner, live entertainment and the opportunity to connect with colleagues and business leaders from across the region.

The event will also support Derry Chamber’s 2026 charity partner, DEEDS Project (Dementia Engaged and Empowered in Derry & Strabane), with proceeds from the annual charity raffle going towards the organisation’s work supporting people living with dementia and their families across the local community.

With very limited tickets now remaining, Derry Chamber is encouraging members and the wider business community to secure their place at what promises to be a memorable night of celebration and connection.

Purchase your 68th President’s Annual Dinner Tickets Here