Donegal native Karen Harkin Gallagher wins Businesswoman of the Year

Donegal entrepreneur Karen Harkin Gallagher was named Businesswoman of the Year at the Local Women Magazine Power to Switch Business Awards 2026.

The ceremony took place last night in the Europa Hotel, Belfast, where Gallagher was honoured for founding KHG Hair Systems. The company, which grew from her Lifford hair salon of 30 years, now specialises in treating women’s hair loss, offering hair enhancers and confidence‑restoring services.

KHG Hair Systems serves clients with alopecia, hair loss from cancer treatment and thinning caused by hormones, stress or menopause. The business operates clinics in Ireland, the UK and Spain and has doubled its staff in the past four months.

In accepting the award, Gallagher highlighted the impact of her work, saying it helps women regain confidence and identity after hair loss. She dedicated the accolade to the women she supports and expressed pride in bringing the honour to Donegal.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Max Vakhtbovych / Pexels.