Cultural Talk For Diversity

Theme Overview

We are seeking a speaker for a Diversity session exploring how career breaks are shaped by gender in European and broader Western contexts. This open call invites perspectives on the cultural, policy, and workplace forces that affect career progression before, during, and after interruptions.

The session will look at how gender expectations, parental leave systems, workplace norms, and structural barriers shape people's ability to pause, return, and continue building a career.

Topics may include:

• The motherhood penalty and career progression
• Parental leave policies and workplace culture
• Gender norms and structural barriers
• Returning to work after career interruptions

Event Format

• Each speaker delivers a 10-minute speech, followed by a 20+ minute discussion with all participants.