What does gender equality mean to you?
At my first job fresh out of college, there was a discrepancy between how male and female colleagues were treated. The work culture was steeped in stereotypes and prejudices. I had to constantly prove my worth, work twice as hard as my male colleagues. But instead of feeling discouraged, it gave me an extra push. I decided to demonstrate that I deserved the same respect through my commitment and achievements. My experience changed when I moved to the UK and started working at Linguarama.
In many parts of the world, societies are still traditionally patriarchal. Women face challenges in gaining recognition and opportunities, at work and at home. For me, gender equality means a world where women do not have to work twice. It means breaking down cultural stereotypes, allowing every individual, regardless of gender, to express their potential without compromising their health or wellbeing.
How would you describe a “great leader”? What key traits do you value the most?
To me, great leadership means inspiring and empowering others, allowing them to reach their full potential while working together towards a common vision. Creating an environment based on trust, respect and collaboration, where every team member feels valued and heard. An effective leader is a concrete example of ethical behaviour, always acting with integrity and consistency. He/she works alongside the team, fostering an open dialogue and a sense of belonging. A good leader knows how to convey the value of effort, is able to show how hard work is an integral part of every success, making the joy of achieving results even more satisfying especially when they contribute to the common good. The ability to celebrate shared successes reinforces the sense of unity and makes it clear that every sacrifice has greater meaning.
An excellent leader must be empathetic, able to understand people’s needs and concerns, creating an inclusive and supportive environment. An excellent leader must earn trust through fair and transparent decisions, adapt to change with creativity and resilience, communicate clearly and listen actively. Finally, she/he must inspire the team to give the best of themselves, making each person feel part of a common goal, where the path and goals achieved are a source of pride and satisfaction for everyone.
How does marcus evans empower female leadership?
When I started working at Linguarama, I finally felt valued for competencies and merit. marcus evans concretely values female leadership through a strong commitment to inclusion and the enhancement of talent, regardless of gender. In our division in particular, several women occupy top management positions, a tangible example of how the company promotes equal opportunities and recognises merit and skills. Our company culture supports gender equality and inspires women to pursue leadership roles.
In addition, marcus evans is open to the demands and needs of management, and committed to creating a flexible and inclusive environment. The personal and professional needs of leaders are heard and respected. This approach not only empowers women in key roles, but strengthens the culture based on mutual support and collective growth.
What advice would you offer to the next generation of female leaders?
Work with passion, put your heart into what you do and find satisfaction in your career path. It is important to give a positive value to fatigue, not look at it as an obstacle but as an element that enriches and prepares you for success. Just like a walk in the mountains, every step uphill requires effort but the view from the top repays every effort, making the journey even more meaningful.
We should never lose awareness of the need to share family commitments. We must learn to ask for and accept support, both in the family and in the professional community. Leadership is not just a personal achievement, but an opportunity to inspire positive change, demonstrating that success can be achieved by maintaining a work-life balance.
Great leadership means inspiring and empowering others, allowing them to reach their full potential while working together towards a common vision
marcus evans Women Leaders Talk
Copyright © 2025 Marcus Evans. All rights reserved.
Paola Piccinini
Position: General Manager, Linguarama Italy
Location: Milan
Years at marcus evans: 28 years
For more information, please contact: Sarin Kouyoumdjian-Gurunlian press@marcusevanscy.com
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