Inspiring Leaders and Role Models

We are thrilled to announce the release of the WIN (Women in Interventional Neuroradiology) promotional video, featuring the stories and experiences of some of the most inspiring women in the field. This powerful showcase celebrates their journeys, the obstacles they have overcome, and the impact they continue to make in interventional neuroradiology (INR).

In this video, you’ll hear from leading experts like Shelley Renowden (Honorary Member) from the UK, Elisa Cicero from Italy, Alessandra Biondi from France, Anne Christine Januel from France (current ESMINT President), Helena Guerreiro from Germany, and Franziska Dorn (Chair of the WIN Group) from Germany. They candidly share what makes a career in INR so rewarding, from the ability to make life-changing impacts on patients to the thrill of mastering the intricate pathophysiology and ever-evolving techniques and devices.

Interventional neuroradiology, as highlighted by the Shelley Renowden, is a field that demands not only extensive knowledge but also close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including neurosurgeons, neurologists, and intensivists. Yet, the journey to becoming a recognized expert in INR has been far from easy, especially for women. The featured professionals discuss the ongoing challenges of gender disparity, the struggle with imposter syndrome, and the need to work harder to gain recognition and trust in male-dominated settings.

WIN Group ESMINT – Elisa Ciceri, Anne Christine Januel, Alessandra Biondi, Franziska Dorn, Helena Guerreiro
Alessandra Biondi, Elisa Ciceri and Anne Christine Januel share their reflections on how things have changed since the beginning of their careers. They describe a time when women were often sidelined or underestimated and emphasize how far the field has come, especially with more women like Anne Christine Januel now in prominent leadership positions, including her role as ESMINT President.

The Power of Support and Networking
Helena Guerreiro and Franziska Dorn highlight the importance of having a strong support network. As they explain, having like-minded women to share experiences and learn from each other is crucial for building confidence and navigating the demands of INR. Franziska Dorn emphasizes that visibility and representation matter: seeing women on stage and in leadership roles can inspire and open doors for the next generation.

WIN Video Impressions
The message throughout the video is one of resilience, support, and the power of community. WIN continues to be committed to creating a platform for women to connect, uplift one another, and promote future leaders in the field. As Shelley Renowden points out, being part of a network like WIN can make a profound difference, from sharing strategies to manage alpha-male dynamics to encouraging each other to take leadership and assertiveness training.

And this is just the beginning! We are excited to share that WIN has more initiatives and events planned to further empower women in neurointerventions. From workshops to mentorship programs, we aim to ensure that every woman in INR has the resources and community she needs to succeed.

Check out the WIN webpage as well as the promotional video today to hear from these inspiring leaders and join the conversation with #WINspire. Let’s continue to work together to enrich and diversify the field of interventional neuroradiology!