Barbie puts student Liselot Coppens into action

The 2023 hit film Barbie and the online discussions about it inspired student Liselot Coppens (20) from Den Dungen to change the inequality between men and women. After research, Liselot discovered that many women—much more easily than men—talk themselves into thinking they can't do something. "I read that as many as seventy percent of women say they sometimes feel that way."

Liselot is in her second year at the Start-up School, part of Summa College. Here, students are given the opportunity to develop their ideas and be entrepreneurial. "I'm naturally entrepreneurial, but I'm not driven by big money. I want to do something that makes an impact in the world." The movie Barbie ultimately set her on the right track.

She now wants to raise awareness among women, because there, in particular, much can still be improved. This became very clear during her recent pitch to entrepreneurs, students, and teachers on the topic of inequality. Her presentation made a huge impression on everyone present. "Everyone in the room felt what I was talking about. The topic really resonates with many women, and men too, for that matter. Many women never talk about this, but when I tell them what I'm facing myself, every woman has examples."

Liselot has already interviewed women experiencing similar challenges. "My next step is to explore what I can do concretely to address this inequality." That's why she's eager to connect with women who have ideas about how to address this, and with women who are already working towards it. "I really want to make a difference. That's what I'm committed to." 

Liselot can be reached via liselotstartupschool@outlook.com.

The ED spoke with Liselot Coppens about her project. Read the story here.