Association des Femmes Chefs d'Entreprises de Monaco celebrates 20th anniversary with fabulous gala

On Friday 4 October, the Hotel de Paris was decked out in its most elegant finery to host an exceptional event: the 20th anniversary of the Association des Femmes Chefs d’Entreprises de Monaco (AFCEM – Association of Monaco Women Business Leaders). With 200 guests in attendance, the evening was an opportunity to pay tribute to the inspirational women who have made history and to celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship shared by all the participants.

The AFCEM pulled out all the stops as it celebrated its 20th anniversary. With a number of well-known figures in attendance, including the Minister for Finance and the Economy, AFCEM President Johanna Houdrouge kicked off proceedings with a stirring speech.

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“Economic and political spheres are now working together to promote women’s access to any and all positions. Because gender should no longer be a criterion. In a world where competence rules, discrimination, even positive discrimination, should have no place. I am convinced that women’s views should also be voiced by men,” said the President.

Lively presentations and radiant smiles set the tone for what was already shaping up to be an emotional evening. Among the guests of honour were national councillors, the President of the Conseil Économique et Social (Economic and Social Council), and many presidents of branches from abroad, all gathered to celebrate this wonderful adventure.

The evening began with cocktails and music on the prestigious terrace of the Salle Empire, where guests were able to watch the symbolic illumination of the Place du Casino by Princess Charlene to mark the launch of Pink October.

A tribute to female icons

The evening also showcased emblematic figures who have shaped the history and future of women around the world. The tables, elegantly named after the likes of Simone Veil, Frida Kahlo, Serena Williams and Grace Kelly, reminded everyone of the indelible impact these women have had on our societies.

Superb portraits decorated the venue, providing a journey through time and the struggles of women who defied convention, paving the way for the following generations.

A promising announcement

The high point of the evening was a scoop, with the announcement that the first world congress of the Association’s European Presidents will be held in Monaco in 2025. The news was greeted with enthusiastic applause, and illustrates AFCEM’s growing influence on the international stage.

Passing on and inspiring

The desire to hand down and pass on is one of AFCEM’s core values. In addition to its other events, the association organises GirlBoss meetings every year, a speed mentoring event that enables young girls to benefit from the experience and advice of female business leaders.

This transfer of knowledge fuels AFCEM’s commitment: to encourage and train the female entrepreneurs of tomorrow, showing them that glass ceilings can be shattered. In the Principality, entrepreneurs account for 44.2% of the working population, and 29.1% of those are women.

A powerful global network

As part of the worldwide network of women business leaders (FCEM), AFCEM is proud to belong to a pioneering organisation founded in 1945, which today includes millions of businesses in 120 countries. This vast network epitomises friendship, community and a shared vision: the entrepreneurial spirit.

A thrilling evening

Conversation and laughter echoed throughout the evening, creating a warm and lively atmosphere. Participants from a wide range of backgrounds – politicians, writers, artists, scientists, sportswomen, activists, actresses, Nobel Peace Prize winners, stylists, nurses, chemists, singers, dancers and psychoanalysts – shared their experiences, successes and challenges, strengthening the ties that bind this unique community together.

In short, the celebration of AFCEM’s 20th anniversary was a veritable ode to the strength and resilience of women entrepreneurs. A special moment that augurs well for the future, both for AFCEM and for all the women who aspire to make their voice heard in the business world.

It’s fair to say that AFCEM organised an exceptional event in honour of all the women of the world, one that will be remembered for a long time.