Marleen Franken | Faces of FEB

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The Faculty of Economics and Business is a faculty with a great diversity of people who all have an impact, big or small, on science and society. But who are these people? Within ‘Faces of FEB’ we connect with different students, staff members and researchers of the faculty and give a little peek into their world. This month: Marleen Franken, one of the founders of FEB's first Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA).

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Marleen Franken, I am 22 years old and currently pursuing the MSc Marketing and MSc International Business & Management. Together with Balázs Murguly, I founded the Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA) of the FEB. In my free time, I sing in Popkoor Estrellas and dance ballroom, Latin and salsa at SSV The Blue Toes.

2. You are one of the founders of FEB's first Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA). Why did you launch this initiative?

Balázs and I were in the Inclusivision panel together when the request for a GSA came in. We were very enthusiastic about this initiative and the panel gave the green light to the initiator. Unfortunately, the initiator was unable to continue with the initiative, and Balázs and I felt that it was too important not to continue, so we decided to set it up together. With the GSA, we aim to create a community at FEB and help make FEB a more inclusive space.

3. Why should students join the GSA?

First of all, it’s a lot of fun! So far, we have had a few meetings and a game night and there are plans for more activities such as pub quizzes and movie nights. It is a great way to meet new people within the faculty. On a more serious note, the GSA is a place where you can find community, and talk about shared experiences with fellow students from the LGBTQ+ community. Together, we want to make our faculty a more inclusive space. If you don't identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, but just want to learn more about it and meet new people, you are welcome to join as well!

4. This alliance is for students at FEB. Do you think something similar should also be implemented in the workfield? And how could this be realized according to you?

The GSA provides students with a safe community where they can be themselves. I think any initiative that does something similar in the workplace should be encouraged! Some companies already have alliances or communities for certain minority groups that can be joined by their employees. In other cases, employees can set up initiatives themselves. Find a group of people who want to help set up an initiative and see what the options are in your workplace!