Over 100 participants attended the international "Women in Print" networking meeting in the "Sternberg Alm" - Heidelberg´s customer lounge at drupa - on May 6, 2012 organized by Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg). Women from 22 countries including Spain, France, Germany, Turkey, Russia, North America, China, Israel, Egypt, Indonesia, India, Qatar, and Brazil used the opportunity to share experiences in the Alm, which is located in the direct vicinity of Hall 1, where Heidelberg is showcasing its innovations. Under the motto "Women are up and coming - also in the print media industry," high-caliber speakers from a wide range of sectors took to the stage.

Keynote speaker Monika Schulz-Strelow, Chairwoman of the "Women on Board" initiative, FidAR e.V., Berlin, stressed that women need networks and that women in the printing industry should put men under pressure. She encouraged women "to break through the glass ceiling and breathe the fresh air up there". Women must take a firm stance and should not be afraid to show what they can do. It is therefore important that they stick together and plan their careers with care. Women in Germany should take an example from women in other countries, said Schulz-Strelow. It's time for change. This position was backed by Andrea Riedmann, who is one of the few women who made her way to Partner Audit at KPMG AG. Among other things, she is responsible for KPMG's diversity strategy and rates the huge potential of female employees as one of the company's biggest assets. Two print shop owners humorously recalled their fascinating - and often difficult - journeys through a male-dominated world. Laura Lawton-Forsyth, owner of family-run Lawton Printing and File-EZ Folder located in Spokane, Washington, USA, and Susan Heaney, Managing Director of Heaneys Performers in Print, Queensland, Australia, have both made it to the top of their companies. Actress and artist Antonia Gerke from Berlin then spoke about female role models in the world of art and culture. The event was hosted by Adriana Nuneva, Head of Global Marketing and Corporate Communications at Heidelberg, and Bettina Haag, also from Heidelberg. 

"Women must network more closely and support one another. In difficult situations, communication with women in similar business positions might even help to make the right decision. Most of all, young female executives can benefit from the expertise and support of experienced mentors," said Nuneva. "Women in Print" is designed to expand the platform for female managers in the print media industry to share ideas and experiences.