05 Nov, 2024
The second session of the Alliance Of Her Academy 2023 Spring Class took place on 9-12 March in Vienna, Austria.
In addition to an intense schedule of expert-led trainings on political leadership and strategy, the 22 participants were able to meet with alumnae and representatives from NEOS, ALDE Party member in Austria, as well as neighbouring liberals from Progresívne Slovensko in Slovakia.
At a special networking dinner, Alliance Of Her alumna and NEOS Parliamentary group leader for Vienna, Bettina Emmerling addressed participants and guests alongside Sophie Wotschke, Chair of NEOS’ youth wing Junos. Emmerling shared her reflections on her journey as a woman in Austrian politics following her time in the Alliance Of Her Academy. Dana Kleinert, alumna and member of the Slovak Parliament, also addressed the group, sharing a remarkable story about the highs and lows of Slovak politics and her party Progresívne Slovensko - a party that has a particularly strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The session was supported by close partner and ally of the Alliance Of Her, the European Liberal Forum (ELF). Speaking on ELF’s behalf, board member Antoaneta Asenova spoke passionately about what drives her as a female leader in liberal politics, and the importance of not hesitating when opportunities are offered, as well as making the most of allies and supportive communities like the Alliance Of Her.
Making their way through a packed four-day agenda, participants focused on political communication and storytelling, working with some of the best experts in their field on areas that included political messaging, delivering effective speeches, managing media and mastering social media platforms. Along the way, they continued to develop their own political goals and build their personal brands, which they’ll continue to work on heading into their third and final session in May.
The Alliance Of Her Academy benefits from generous support of our partners, including the European Parliament. As such, all participants must meet strict eligibility criteria, in addition to demonstrating clear leadership talent and ambition. Participants are also informed of the prohibition to run in an election campaign during the academy or up to 12 months after the termination of the program. If this condition is not respected, participants are required to cover costs independently or with a ‘substantial’ contribution from their political party.
It’s a wrap for our Spring Class of 2023 session in Vienna! Four days of empowering connections and inspiring conversations, and we’re already looking forward to the final session in Belgium! More highlights on Flickr 📷 https://t.co/liYIUztGQL #SheWillBeHeard pic.twitter.com/o5CCuuRoB4
— The Alliance of Her (@AllianceOfHer) March 13, 2023
