#FollowSarahIrwin

This week we are delighted to introduce you all to Sarah Irwin. Sarah is a corporate lawyer and General Counsel of an Irish startup, advising on all aspects of the business. Sarah champions inclusivity in all walks of life - “there is enough there for the taking and everyone should aim for as big a slice as they want with no barriers”.

#FollowSarahIrwin @SarahIrwin_Eire

1. Describe yourself in 6 words:

Anglo-Irish soul that believes in you :)

2. What prompted you to move careers and work with startups?

I worked as a corporate lawyer in private practice for many years but ultimately wanted to work closely with just one client that shared my vision of how a business should be run i.e. capable of accommodating all manner of professional goals (whether that's money, or to use your voice more, or feel included and valued, or otherwise) at the same time as turning a healthy profit. With startups, you are beginning fresh with no pre-conceived ideas about how things "should" or have always be done. I think all that positive entrepreneurial energy and hopefulness lends itself well to prioritising that at all times, even when you are crazy busy with the work itself!

3. Tell us a bit about yourself:

I was born in Ireland and grew up in England and moved back to Ireland six years ago, mostly for the work opportunities at the time. It's a really exciting time to live and work here since the tech scene exploded and along with it, a more multicultural Ireland that embraces progressive attitudes. Outside of work, I love travelling and speak a few foreign languages, having lived in France when I was at University. I am lucky to have lots of Irish family members that live overseas who I visit regularly!

4. How has being part of AwakenHub helped you?

It has really helped with my professional confidence self-esteem. Everyone just wants to help everyone else with no expectation of anything in return. Every single member is highly valued for who they are as in individual and made to feel special. The members are pleased to share insights, their own networks (which they have spent many years cultivating) and kick open doors for you if they can. There is no score-keeping (a massive networking turn-off!). In a world where people try to cut you down frequently, it's nice to be part of a movement comprising people that just think I'm brilliant :)

You can follow Sarah over on Twitter @SarahIrwin _Eire