The annual general meeting of Women in Plastics Italy (WIPS-It) took place on Monday, 13 April, at Smartt Valley in Daverio (Varese). A key moment in the association’s calendar, the meeting confirmed the organisation’s steady growth and consolidation since its establishment, with a mission to promote female talent and foster a more inclusive and sustainable culture within the plastics industry.
The assembly provided an important opportunity for reflection, discussion, and strategic planning, during which members reviewed achievements to date, ongoing activities, and the association’s future outlook.
Officially founded in October 2024, Women in Plastics Italy has experienced rapid growth, doubling its membership base in a short period and building an increasingly active and engaged community. From the outset, the association has stood out for its ability to launch concrete initiatives, foster meaningful connections, and promote a renewed sector culture grounded in inclusivity, sustainability, and the enhancement of skills.
New appointments to the Board of Directors
During the assembly, two new members were elected to the Board of Directors: Erica Cantillo and Francesca Minarini, who will contribute to further strengthening the association’s governance. Elisa Aghemo was also appointed as a member of the Board of Auditors.
These appointments represent an important step in ensuring both continuity and renewal, in line with WIPS-It’s values of participation and shared responsibility.
A special recognition was also awarded to Paola Pireddu, who was named an honorary lifetime member for having been “the spark” that ignited the association, bringing together women from the sector for the first time during Plast Milano 2023. Since then, her optimism, positivity and empathy have become an integral part of all association activities.
Looking beyond national borders
Among the key outcomes of the meeting was the approval of a document drafted by the Board of Directors outlining guidelines for the use of the WIPS-It brand by international organisations interested in adopting its model.
This marks an important step in the association’s growing international relevance. Similar initiatives are already emerging abroad, with WIPS Austria already established, and the association aims to both safeguard and promote its core values, ensuring that the WIPS model can be replicated in different contexts while respecting local cultures and preserving its identity.
Working groups and future initiatives
Significant attention was devoted to the association’s working groups, which are at the heart of its activities. They provided updates on completed projects, ongoing initiatives, and new proposals currently under development. This was a key moment to share results, gather input, and strengthen active member engagement.
A day of networking and professional development
Alongside the institutional agenda, the event reaffirmed its strong networking dimension, offering numerous opportunities for exchange among participants.
The day concluded with a visit to the Smartt Valley facilities, followed by a final talk on social selling, reflecting the association’s ongoing commitment to supporting the professional development of its members through relevant tools and skills.
“The growth we have experienced in recent months was far from guaranteed: while our goal was clear, achieving it required focus, dedication, professionalism, and strong shared determination. Today, Women in Plastics Italy is a vibrant and dynamic network, actively connecting individuals, businesses, and institutions. It is a space where genuine dialogue takes place, and where many women finally find an environment for listening, expression, and growth. Change is not something to wait for, it is already happening, and we are actively part of it,” said President Miriam Olivi.