International Women's Day

“Don’t give up when you feel strongly about something, and don’t be afraid to challenge power”

Historian Catherine Corless opens her playbook for success and offers wisdom for ambitious women

“Have a steely focus on your mission and believe in yourself and what you’re doing,” historian Catherine Corless. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire

I’ve never been attracted to the limelight, always content with the reclusive tasks of rearing our four children and working on our farm and garden. My hobbies were art, craftwork and researching family history. Little did I know that in my twilight years life would compel me towards a different journey. I would have to aspire to unknown heights of public life during the mammoth task of seeking justice for very vulnerable and forgotten people, ...