Women play a powerful role in the exhibitions industry, yet leadership positions have long been dominated by men. So the real question is, how can more women step into decision-making roles, and what support systems help make that happen?

In this episode, Rachel Andrews sits down with Danica Tormohlen, VP of Group Content at Informa Connect and President of the North America chapter of Women in Exhibitions, alongside Oana Cipca, the organization’s Founder and Senior Manager at MECC in the Netherlands. They discuss the origins of Women in Exhibitions, the challenges women face in the industry, and how the organization has grown into a global network that supports, mentors, and uplifts women at all career stages.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. How Women in Exhibitions began: From an idea sparked at a conference to a movement empowering women worldwide.
2. The key challenges in exhibitions: Why leadership roles remain male-dominated and how the industry is shifting.
3. Ways to get involved: From online meetups to international summits, the organization provides networking and learning opportunities that help women build their careers.

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Introducing Oana Cipca & Danica Tormohlen

(03:02) The origins of Women in Exhibitions

(07:30) Addressing gender disparities in the exhibition industry

(12:22) How Women in Exhibitions creates real career opportunities

(18:13) Expanding Women in Exhibitions globally

(22:41) Insights from the Women in Exhibitions World Summit

(27:19) The power of mentorship and industry connections

(31:07) How to get involved and take action today