On April 8-9, 2025, the University of Minho in Braga, Portugal, will host a historic event for gender equality in academia: the last Annual Meeting of the “Making Young Researchers’ Voices Heard for Gender Equality” (VOICES) initiative. Supported by the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST), this concluding gathering will bring together researchers, academics, and gender equality advocates one last time to reflect on past achievements and shape the future of inclusive academic environments.

A Program Focused on Change

The meeting will begin on April 8 with a welcome session and an introduction to the event. One of the highlights of the first day will be the White Book Development session, an essential initiative aimed at consolidating strategies and recommendations for promoting gender equality.

Throughout the day, various working groups will address key topics such as:

  • Intersectionality (Working Group 5)
  • Leadership & Decision-Making (Working Group 2)
  • Gender-Based Violence & Institutional Culture (Working Group 4)
  • Monitoring & Evaluation (Working Group 6)

These sessions will allow participants to exchange knowledge and generate concrete proposals for institutional change.

On April 9, the event will continue with a Final Conference Planning Session for Paris, followed by a roundtable discussion titled “VOICES for Change: Integrating Political, Institutional, and Student Perspectives on a More Inclusive Academia.” This session will feature prominent speakers, including Anne-Sophie Godfroy (VOICES Action Chair), Isabel Estrada Carvalhais (former Member of the European Parliament), and representatives from the University of Minho, who will share their perspectives on transforming academic structures towards greater equity.

The event will conclude with closing remarks and acknowledgments, marking the official closure of the VOICES initiative. A farewell lunch will follow, providing a final opportunity for participants to strengthen their network and discuss the next steps in advancing gender equality in academia beyond the project’s lifespan.

Why Is This Meeting Important?

As the last VOICES Annual Meeting, the 2025 Braga gathering is a unique and significant opportunity for young researchers to make their voices heard one last time under this initiative. It represents a crucial moment to celebrate the progress made, document key insights, and ensure that the impact of VOICES extends beyond the project’s conclusion. Collaboration between different sectors and perspectives remains essential for generating real and lasting change.

To stay updated on the event and participate in future gender equality initiatives, visit VOICES and join the conversation on social media: Twitter | Instagram.

Let’s continue building a more inclusive and equitable academia for everyone!