France celebrates women leaders in social economy and education

Three female entrepreneurs have been awarded the inaugural Prix des dirigeantes de l’Économie Sociale et Solidaire (ESS) in Paris. The award, co-created by France Active and the Mirova Foundation, recognizes women developing concrete solutions for social and environmental challenges.

Winners include Joanne Boachon of Minéka (Circular Economy and Reuse), Aline Vieille of Trivial Compost (Ecological Transition), and Eva Muringer of Flavi (Solidarity). Each recipient received a 5,000 euro grant to support their business development. The selection was made from nine finalists chosen from over 50 regional applications.

In a separate initiative focused on professional development, Excelia has launched the second edition of 'Les Excellentes,' a female leadership program. In Tours, 33 students met with corporate mentors to begin a multi-month program designed to help them develop leadership skills, expand professional networks, and build career confidence. The program is supported by the Excelia Foundation and Banque Populaire Val de France.