Live In Conversation: Women In Exhibitions

In a live on-site interview at the recent edition of International Confex, Mina Booth, Head of Content at Mash Media, sat down with Oana Cipca, the founder of Women in Exhibitions alongside working as Manager Business Development at MECC Maastricht. The conversation delved into the origins, evolution, and impact of Women in Exhibitions, a pivotal organisation dedicated to empowering women in the exhibition industry. Here’s a summary of their enlightening discussion.

Women in Exhibitions, founded by Oana Cipca, began as a small initiative aimed at connecting and supporting women within the exhibition industry. Recognising a gap in the industry for a platform where women could share experiences and mentor each other, Oana and a few passionate women came together to create this empowering network. Over time, what started as a series of informal meetings and networking events has evolved into a global organisation offering mentorship programmes, professional development workshops, and international conferences. The growth has been remarkable, with membership expanding significantly and many women in the network advancing into leadership roles.

The impact of Women in Exhibitions on the industry has been profound. By providing a supportive community and amplifying the voices of women, the organisation has helped many of its members increase their confidence, find better career opportunities, and develop a strong sense of belonging. Additionally, Women in Exhibitions has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion within the industry, encouraging more organisations to adopt these values.

Looking ahead, Women in Exhibitions aims to expand its reach even further. The organisation plans to offer more virtual and in-person events, enhance its mentorship programmes, and collaborate with other industry bodies to promote gender equality. The future looks bright as Women in Exhibitions continues to empower and inspire women in the exhibition industry, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Watch the full interview: