There is a thread that unites research, innovation, and ethics in the pharmaceutical industry. A thread that speaks of inclusion, representation, and human as well as scientific challenges. This will be narrated in a direct and passionate manner by Session XVIII of the 64th AFI Symposium – the annual event which, once again this year in Rimini, will shed light on the most urgent and innovative topics in the sector.
Gender equality and inclusion: a new perspective
The first part of the session explores the theme of gender equality and inclusion, emphasizing how the pharmaceutical industry can benefit from greater diversity in teams and leadership roles. Concrete cases of men taking on significant family roles were discussed, along with the importance of integrating different generations in the workplace and the impact that personal situations, such as domestic violence, can have on professional life.
These topics highlight the need to create more empathetic and flexible work environments, capable of recognizing and supporting the diverse needs of employees. Inclusion is not just an ethical issue; it is a strategy to improve productivity and innovation.
Women’s entrepreneurship: valuing talent
The second part of the session will focus on female entrepreneurship in the pharmaceutical sector, analyzing the challenges and opportunities for women who wish to start up businesses in the field of medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Successful examples will be presented, and the cultural and structural obstacles that still limit female participation in entrepreneurship will be discussed.
What will emerge? It is crucial to promote policies of support, mentorship, and access to funding to encourage the birth and growth of women-led companies, recognizing the added value that gender diversity brings to innovation and competitiveness in the sector.
Towards a more inclusive future
Session XVIII of the 64th AFI Symposium, as emphasized by Prof. Minghetti in the introductory video, represents an important step towards greater awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the pharmaceutical industry. Through testimonies, analysis, and concrete proposals, a path has been mapped out that aims to make the sector fairer, more innovative, and more resilient.
The hope is that these reflections will translate into concrete actions, capable of turning challenges into opportunities and of building a pharmaceutical industry that is in step with the times and attentive to everyone’s needs.