Event Recap: The Mothers of Europe – Celebrating Women Leaders in European Integration
On October 21, 2024, from 16:00 to 19:00 at Auditorium II, Schlossplatz, ESMT Berlin, we held the opening workshop of The Mothers of Europe, dedicated to retelling the inspiring stories of women who played a key role in building the European Union. These remarkable women championed democracy, social progress, and European integration, earning the title of “Founding Mothers of the EU.”
The Mothers of Europe Initiative
Throughout history, the achievements of women leaders have often been overlooked, and the story of the EU’s formation is no exception. This lack of recognition shapes how we perceive both past and present contributions of women in our societies. Mothers of Europe aims to correct this by honoring 12 pioneering women from different EU countries who advanced European integration, fostered democratic transition, and shaped the foundational values of the EU.
In our Berlin workshop, participants explored ways to empower today’s women leaders by learning from the legacy of these historical figures. Together, we discussed the pathways for women’s leadership and the essential role they continue to play in shaping Europe’s future.
Event Highlights and Participants
Organized by Alliance4Europe as part of the “Mothers of Europe” project, funded by the EU CERV Programme, this workshop featured thought-provoking discussions led by a distinguished panel:
- Moderator
Dr. Sarah Horn – Program Director and Executive Coach at ESMT Berlin, where she designs executive education programs focused on inclusive leadership. She brings extensive experience in corporate leadership and ecosystem partnerships from her work at Medtronic in the Netherlands and the USA. - Panelists
Aileen McKay – Editor, coach, and consultant focused on inclusion and gender equity, with a background in grassroots organizing and Comparative Literature. She empowers women and queer communities in leadership through innovative storytelling and social justice practices.Ana-Maria Trăsnea – Co-President of the Women’s Leadership Network, advocating for gender equality and social justice. A seasoned politician and international speaker, she has held positions in Berlin’s local Council and Bundestag and continues to drive civic engagement for young women.
Martin Speer – Political consultant and co-founder of the Herr & Speer initiative, advocating for a united Europe, social justice, and youth participation in politics through digital activism and collaboration with civic organizations.
Helen Neitemeier – Legal expert in digitalization and public policy, with experience in promoting democracy through organizations like Wir für Demokratie e.V. and Brand New Bundestag. Her work centers on fair political representation and diversity.
Magali Hübers – European political activist and founder of the AVIA project. With a background in youth associations and European politics, she brings insights from her French-German heritage and a dedication to cross-cultural dialogue.
Thank you for attending our event. We truly appreciate your participation and look forward to welcoming you again in the future.
Thank You for Joining Us
We appreciate everyone who attended and contributed to this meaningful event. Your participation helps keep the legacy of Europe’s Founding Mothers alive and supports the movement for a more inclusive and democratic Europe.
For more about the Mothers of Europe project and upcoming events, visit our website.
EDS/Project requirements:
EDS_D2.1_opening expert event in Germany
Mothers of Europe has received funding under Grant Agreement no 101143916, from the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) programme. Project is implemented in 6 countries (Czechia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Poland and Spain).
In partnership with:
