For International Women’s Day, we gave the floor to four women with inspiring life journeys. Each of them shared their vision of freedom. A deep and powerful force that shapes the way they exist in the world.
Shaping time in their own way, choosing their own path, embracing the beauty of the world, and believing in it against all odds. Through their words, these women invite us to rethink freedom - a fundamental right that they boldly make their own. Their path, defined by their choices and aspirations, is a true celebration of freedom. A tribute to the strength of their independence.
And you, what makes you feel free?
A passionate journalist and literary critic, Olivia de Lamberterie’s insightful voice illuminates the world of writing. She enthusiastically shares her love of words and authors in the columns of ELLE magazine and on the air for France Inter. Her rare insight and great empathy allow her to bring books to life, reveal their deep resonance and act as an essential conduit between writers and audiences.
Author, philosophy teacher and co-founder of several Montessori schools and crèches, Marie Robert is passionate about passing on knowledge. Her aim is to put philosophy back at the heart of our daily lives. After several bestsellers, she has just published Le miracle du réconfort (Éditions Flammarion). She also created the successful podcast "Philosophy Is Sexy" and the Instagram account of the same name. Whatever the medium, her philosophy is clear: think the way you live and live the way you think.
Juliette Gourlat is an art enthusiast who highlights artists through Mouvements, a bookstore-gallery on Rue de Rocroy in Paris. Under her direction, this space serves as a dynamic hub of documentation, where each exhibition is accompanied by carefully curated publications. Driven by deep curiosity and a passion for modern and contemporary art, she fosters dialogue between books, ephemera, and artworks. The specialized bookstore further enriches this approach by preserving the memory of exhibitions and artists. Through her dedication, Juliette Gourlat has made Mouvements a truly unique place—at once a bookstore, gallery, and publishing house—where art can be fully experienced.
Reporter and presenter Pauline Godart is the embodiment of committed and people-centred journalism. Through her reporting, she informs, raises awareness and inspires, highlighting the struggles of female figures fighting for justice and women's rights. As a field reporter, she covers conflicts around the world, bearing witness to the often invisible realities in areas of tension. Mother, wife, sister, friend... She takes on all these roles with strength and determination.
Cathleen Waters is a language expert and entrepreneur based in New York. In 2006, she founded New World Medium, a certified woman-owned language services agency. Determined to open up new opportunities for women, she supports them in their quest for independence and success in Latin America and West Africa. Her story shows how languages, combined with entrepreneurship, can be powerful levers for autonomy and empowerment.