On Wednesday 8 March 2023, to mark International Women's Rights Day, the University of French Guiana, in partnership with the Prefecture of French Guiana, organised a morning of discussions on the changing role of women in society.
A morning to get people talking
Led by Ayodele Germa, the morning was divided into three parts.
The first part was devoted to what the experts had to say. A number of people who are 'experts' in their field were invited to discuss the theme of the day and, more generally, the changing place of women in society (both locally and on a wider scale). The audience was able to question and debate with the following guests: Isabelle Hidair (Anthropologist and regional delegate for women's rights and equality in French Guiana), Pascale Legendry (Director of Human Resources at the University of French Guiana), Marc Pave (Doctor of History, teacher in preparatory classes for the grandes écoles) and Mylène DANGLADES (Director of the MINEA laboratory and writer).
The second part gave a voice to women through a series of ten testimonials from accomplished women. Twelve women from completely different backgrounds (student, returnee, company director, scientist, sportswoman, etc.) presented their professional and personal careers to the audience. They described their successes, failures, difficulties and advantages as women.
In the third and final part, the audience was treated to a reading of poems set to music by Négrès Comou. The public was also invited to share a lunch with the speakers to continue the discussions.