Waterford’s Shorla Oncology Co-Founders Win 2024 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards
Waterford entrepreneurs celebrated at the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. Sharon Cunningham and Orlaith Ryan are the 2024 EY Entrepreneurs of the Year. They co-founded Shorla Oncology, based in Tipperary, which specializes in developing innovative drugs for orphan and pediatric cancers.
The awards ceremony took place at Powerscourt Hotel in Co. Wicklow. Cunningham and Ryan also won in the emerging category. Shorla Oncology aims to improve existing oncology treatments by addressing limitations in current drug applications.
The company has four FDA-approved products available in the U.S., providing affordable and life-saving treatments to patients.
How did winning the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award influence the future goals of Shorla Oncology?
Spotlight on Innovation: Interview with Sharon Cunningham and Orlaith Ryan, 2024 EY Entrepreneurs of the Year
Date: [Insert Date]
Location: Powerscourt Hotel, Co.Wicklow
Interviewer: Congratulations on winning the prestigious EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award! Can you tell us about the moment you received the news?
Sharon Cunningham: Thank you! It was an amazing feeling. We were both overwhelmed with joy and a sense of gratitude. This recognition not only honors our hard work but also brings attention to the vital work being done in the field of oncology.
Orlaith Ryan: Absolutely! it’s a testament to our team at Shorla Oncology and the impact we aim to have on patients’ lives. it really reinforces our mission to improve cancer treatments, notably for orphan and pediatric cancers.
Interviewer: Can you share more about Shorla Oncology and the innovative work you’re doing?
Orlaith Ryan: shorla Oncology was founded to address the critical gaps in current oncology treatments. We focus on developing drugs that are tailored for those neglected cancer types and young patients who often face limited options.
Sharon Cunningham: We’re particularly proud of our four FDA-approved products that are now available in the U.S. These treatments are not only effective but also affordable, ensuring that more patients can access life-saving medications.
Interviewer: Winning in the “emerging” category must have been an honor as well. What does this recognition mean for your future goals?
Sharon Cunningham: It’s incredibly motivating. Winning in the emerging category highlights the potential of our company and underscores the importance of ongoing innovation in healthcare. We’re resolute to expand our portfolio and bring more solutions to the market.
Orlaith Ryan: This award gives us a platform to amplify our message. We want to engage more with stakeholders in the healthcare sector, seek partnerships, and ultimately drive further advancements in oncology.
Interviewer: Along with your success, Ivor Queally was awarded the EY International Entrepreneur of the Year. What are your thoughts on his achievements in the agri-buisness sector?
Orlaith Ryan: Ivor’s achievements are commendable! The QK Group’s success in meat processing and food manufacturing shows the power of entrepreneurship to make substantial contributions across different industries.
Sharon Cunningham: Indeed, his work and leadership highlight the importance of innovation and sustainability in business, especially in the agri-food sector. We all have a role to play in our respective fields.
Interviewer: Looking ahead,what are the next steps for Shorla Oncology?
Sharon Cunningham: Our immediate focus is to continue developing our pipeline and address more unmet needs in oncology. We’re also looking at ways to scale our operations and expand our reach internationally.
Orlaith Ryan: Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer has access to effective treatment options. We are driven by the hope that our work can make a real difference in their lives.
Interviewer: thank you both for sharing your insights with us. Best of luck with your future endeavors at Shorla Oncology!
Sharon Cunningham & Orlaith Ryan: Thank you! We’re excited about what lies ahead and appreciate your support.
Ivor Queally from Kill received the title of 2024 EY International Entrepreneur of the Year. He leads QK Group South Africa, one of Ireland’s largest agri-businesses with operations in multiple sectors. Founded in 2004, the QK Group specializes in meat processing, food manufacturing, and importing frozen food products. It is the second largest pet food manufacturer in South Africa.