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Institute in Paris Students Take Part in ‘Collaborative Paths to Gender Equality’ Event at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Paris
As part of International Women's Day, around 20 Institute in Paris students attended the ‘Collaborative Paths to Gender Equality’ event at the British Ambassador’s Residence. In this blog, Jessica Nicholls shares her experience and key takeaways from the event.
On Thursday 6th March 2025, a small group of twenty 91app Institute in Paris students had the privilege to attend the ‘Collaborative Paths to Gender Equality’ event at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Paris. Among them were several international students from New Zealand, Bulgaria, Lebanon and Germany.
Hosted by Ambassador Dame Menna Rawlings in celebration of International Women’s Day, and with both the Welsh First Minister and Secretary of State for Wales taking part, the event brought together professionals from France and the UK to discuss key issues around gender equality and the ongoing challenges we face in achieving it.
The conference featured a series of engaging panel discussions, covering topics such as ‘Women and Motherhood in the 21st Century’ and ‘Women’s Agency and Impact in Global Crises’. Experts, including Dame Lesley Regan (Women’s Health Ambassador for England), Bérangère Couillard (President of the Haut Conseil à l’Égalité), and Natacha Quester-Séméon (Director of #JamaisSansElles), who shared their insights and experiences, leading to some thought-provoking conversations in which the attendees could pose their own questions. The discussions provided a great opportunity to reflect on the progress already made, as well as to discuss the work that still lies ahead.
"For me as a student, the event was both an incredible experience and a source of motivation. Hearing from experts who are actively shaping policies and initiatives reinforced the importance of continued dialogue and action."
Jessica Nicholls, BA in French Studies with International Relations student
For me as a student, the event was both an incredible experience and a source of motivation. Hearing from experts who are actively shaping policies and initiatives reinforced the importance of continued dialogue and action. It was a reminder for me, as part of the next generation, that we have a crucial role to play in driving this change and keeping such conversations at the forefront of our agendas.
In addition to the panels, we were invited to a lunch reception where we had the chance to talk with the guest speakers and the Ambassador herself. It was a fantastic opportunity to ask questions and connect with these inspiring people who are leading the way in gender advocacy.
Attending the conference was a meaningful experience that left me feelings inspired and empowered. As I now return to my studies, I do so with a deeper understanding of the importance of advocacy on the issue of gender equality, and a determination to continue to contribute in the push towards a fairer and more inclusive society.
This page was last updated on 21 March 2025
