Ana Maria Patru is the founder of the “Women for a Better Society” association, an entrepreneur, and a mediator. She served as the President of the Permanent Electoral Authority of Romania and as Vice President of the World Association of Electoral Bodies. From these high-responsibility positions, she had the privilege of contributing to the foundation of electoral reform programs both in Romania and in other countries transitioning from dictatorship to democracy. She shared her experience and expertise in the field at international conferences in the United States, South Africa, Moldova, and South Korea. With these perspectives, she established the “Women for a Better Society” association, aiming to help women find and embrace their significant role in society.
C&B: Tell us a few words about yourself and your activity!
Ana Maria Patru: I am Ana Maria Patru, a woman who believes in the power of solidarity and the ability of women to transform the world, even if the road is often more difficult for us. Through Women for a Better Society, I dedicate myself to creating opportunities and supporting women who juggle their multiple roles every day – daughter, wife, mother, friend, professional. It’s difficult to do all these things and keep your career at the forefront, and this pressure is one of the reasons why there are still so few women at the table of power. My work is about giving women a chance to claim their rightful place.
C&B: What does your evolution story sound like?
Ana Maria Patru: My evolution is about courage, perseverance and learning from every mistake. In the beginning, I too faced the challenge of finding a balance between the desire to build a career and personal responsibilities. I realized that change doesn’t come by itself – you have to look for it, fight for it. In Women for a Better Society, we brought this lesson: every woman can overcome traditional pressures and expectations if she finds the right support and a community that understands her.
C&B: What were your visions as a child/teen and what are they now?
Ana Maria Patru: When I was a child, I believed that the world was fair and that all dreams were possible. As I grew up, I understood how hard a woman has to work to be seen and heard. Now, my vision is clear: women need to support each other, take a seat at the decision-making table and share the burden, so none of us have to put our careers or dreams second. Through Women for a Better Society, we are making this dream a reality.
C&B: What are the principles of life and work that you use?
Ana Maria Patru: Authenticity, solidarity and perseverance are the values that guide me. Women are under incredible pressure – to be everything to everyone: perfect wives, devoted mothers, responsible daughters, reliable friends. It is essential that we support each other and recognize that we cannot do everything alone. I believe that success comes from the power of asking for help and creating solutions together.
C&B: Tell us about the event you are organizing on December 14, together with the members of the association Women for a Better Society – “Together for a better society – equal opportunities for all”.
Ana Maria Patru: The event on December 14 is a celebration of solidarity and the courage to change reality. It is dedicated to all women who feel that they are always juggling too many responsibilities and who, however, refuse to give up. Through this event, we will create a space for dialogue, inspiration and concrete solutions for equal opportunities. I invite you to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see how this movement is growing day by day and how you can become a part of it.
C&B: Can you tell us funny situations from your work?
Ana Maria Patru: Sure! I remember how, at an event, I was so caught up with the organization that instead of preparing my speech, I found myself holding a pile of files and coffee for my colleagues. At one point, someone joked, “Ana, you could be a super mom even at the office!” It was a moment of laughter, but also a reminder that no matter how many things we have to do at once, we must find time to relax and enjoy each step of the journey.
C&B: What is the phrase that best describes the work of Women for a Better Society?
Ana Maria Patru: “Women supporting each other’s dreams, building a fairer and more united world.”
C&B: What advice do you have for those just starting out or undecided?
Ana Maria Patru: Don’t let pressures or doubts define you. I know it’s hard to juggle all the responsibilities, but every journey starts with a first step. Find your community – either through Women for a Better Society or through people who believe in you. Together, you’ll discover that any dream can become possible, and that every effort counts.
C&B: What is your take on society and its evolution?
Ana Maria Patru: Although society has evolved, women still face huge challenges. It is frustrating to see how many rights remain only on paper and the daily pressures prevent them from reaching where they deserve. I believe that change comes through education and solidarity. If women start to join their voices and demand what is rightfully theirs, not just for themselves, but for future generations, then we will see a fairer society.
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