"WE WANT TO CREATE SPACE FOR INSPIRATION AND CHANGE"

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO FOUND THE EMPOW(H)ER NETWORK? OR TO PUT IT ANOTHER WAY: WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS NECESSARY?

Kampfer: We founded Empow(h)er because we realised how important it is to specifically promote women and offer them the right platforms for exchange and development. Many women, especially those in management positions or on their way there, often feel alone or do not have the same networking opportunities as their male colleagues. We wanted to create this space - for inspiration, empowerment and change.

WHAT GOALS ARE YOU PURSUING WITH EMPOW(H)ER AND HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACHIEVE THEM? WHAT MEASURES HAVE YOU ALREADY IMPLEMENTED?

Kampfer: Our aim is to strengthen women in their professional and personal development, to prepare them for management positions and to motivate them to take on responsibility.

Gerst: So far, we have organised events such as the Empow(h)er Evening, regular networking meetings and an active presence on social media. We are also working on establishing long-term mentoring programmes.

HOW DID YOU RECRUIT THE FIRST MEMBERS FOR THE NETWORK?

Gerst: The first members came through personal contacts and recommendations from our professional environment. We invested a lot of time in discussions and passionately communicated the idea behind Empow(h)er - that was convincing.

WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE WHEN FOUNDING AND SETTING UP THE NETWORK? WHICH PARTNERS DO YOU WORK WITH?

Kampfer: When we founded Empow(h)er, we realised that the topic of empowerment is very much in tune with the times. Both companies and participants immediately showed great interest, and our first kick-off event was fully booked in no time - a clear signal that there is not only a need, but also genuine enthusiasm.

But behind the initial success, there were also challenges that went deeper. One major issue that we encountered directly is the acute shortage of skilled labour. Companies in the region are under increasing pressure to find qualified employees and retain them in the long term. We quickly realised that Empow(h)er can not only be a network for personal development, but must also offer an answer to the pressing problems of the economy. It's about supporting women in a targeted way, connecting them with the right companies and strengthening skills that are urgently needed right now.

Fortunately, we had strong partners at our side right from the start who shared this vision. The FH Kufstein Tirol, triverti connects, Sparkasse Kufstein and Stadtwerke Kufstein supported us. This collaboration has enabled us to create a platform that is geared towards the needs of the participants, but also directly addresses the challenges faced by companies.

HOW DO YOU PROMOTE EXCHANGE AND NETWORKING AMONG THE MEMBERS OF EMPOW(H)ER?

Kampfer: We organise regular events that focus on networking and exchange, such as our popular speed dating format. These events offer participants an uncomplicated opportunity to get to know each other, share their experiences and learn from each other.

Another important part of our network are lectures and training courses. We bring inspiring speakers into the network who not only impart knowledge, but also provide impetus for personal and professional growth. This is complemented by practice-oriented workshops and training courses on topics such as leadership, communication, digitalisation and self-management.

We also promote dialogue through discussions in our social media groups, which enable quick and low-threshold interaction.

These formats not only create a space for inspiration and further training, but also strengthen the connection between the participants. By combining face-to-face meetings, digital exchange opportunities and targeted training programmes, we not only promote networking, but also the continuous development of our participants - and thus the heart of Empow(h)er.

HOW DO YOU USE SOCIAL MEDIA, ESPECIALLY INSTAGRAM AND LINKEDIN, TO SPREAD YOUR MESSAGE AND ATTRACT MEMBERS?

Gerst: Instagram and LinkedIn are indispensable for us. On Instagram, we reach a broad audience with emotional and inspiring posts. We use LinkedIn to make professional contacts and advertise our events in a targeted manner. Both platforms help us to make our message visible and attract members.

WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE NETWORK?

Gerst: We want to further expand our reach, launch mentoring programmes and enter into more collaborations with companies in order to provide even better support for women in business. Our aim is for Empow(h)er to not only be a place of inspiration, but also a decisive factor in actively counteracting the shortage of skilled labour in the region - by promoting talent, building new networks and creating prospects that strengthen women, men and companies in the long term.

HOW CAN INTERESTED PARTIES BECOME PART OF THE NETWORK AND GET INVOLVED?

Gerst: Interested parties can follow us on our social media channels, subscribe to our newsletter and take part in our events. If you would like to get more involved, you are also welcome to contact us as a partner or supporter.