Polish women suffer inequality because of imposed stereotypical role models. In Poland, children are taught that only men are destined to perform great deeds, and 90% of Polish schools are named after men. These men, known as patrons, are presented as role models for youth, praised during annual celebrations and with their achievements reflected in academic curricula.
On International Women's Day, VMLY&R Poland — together with BNP Paribas — launched a yearlong financial benefits program supporting schools with only one condition: the school must choose a woman as its inspiration.
Despite intense pressure from conservative politicians, including the minister of education and chief education officer, one small-town school has already chosen a patroness, and several others are in the process of doing so.
The work recently received its first international shortlist — at the Gerety Awards, an advertising festival judged entirely by women.