Beyond Stereotypes: Understanding Gender Biases was held at The American University of Florence's (AUF) Palazzi Community Center (PCC) on June 15, 2026, bringing together students and guests in Florence. The event was hosted by Maddalena Commisso in collaboration with the community members of the Lean In Florence network. Lean In Florence is an organization that focuses on promoting women’s professional development and empowerment.

The presentation highlighted various stereotypes that have the potential to shape the behavior and actions of those within a given community. Commisso explained the role of stereotypes and unconscious biases in detail, asking people to evaluate various situations. The audience had a chance to share personal experiences that could be related to some of the issues discussed during the presentation.

Overall, the meeting was beneficial as it shed light on the importance of being aware and educated about gender bias and its implications in the current social environment. The significance of this event stems from the role played by gender stereotypes when it comes to career development and professional opportunities. People unconsciously hold certain beliefs about men and women, and this shapes different opportunities available in the workplace, schools and other settings.

One key point of Commisso’s presentation was the importance of recognizing how stereotypes and mental shortcuts influence the way people perceive each other, often leading to unfair judgments and gender bias. The speakers emphasized that first impressions can strongly shape decisions, even when they are based on incomplete or inaccurate information. Another major theme was the persistence of gender inequality, which is still reinforced by cultural traditions, social expectations, and social structures. Women tend to face fewer opportunities in certain professional fields and greater economic challenges compared to men. The presentation also highlighted the importance of awareness as a tool for change. By understanding how bias works, individuals can begin to challenge it and change the system.

An example discussed was how generalization can lead to stereotyping, where individuals are reduced to simplified traits rather than being seen as complex individuals. These stereotypes can lead to feeling alone, when in reality, many women feel the exact same feelings and battle the same struggles. The presentation stressed the need for education, support networks, and open discussion to create a more equal and inclusive society where women can fully develop their potential and close the gap between Men and Women.

As an experienced woman in the workforce, Commisso is passionate about raising awareness around gender bias. Commisso believes that Lean In plays a key role in this initiative, as it encourages people to vocalize their experiences and develop a sense of community in the process.

“Speaking with others will help us to understand that we are not alone,” Commisso said. “So, if we speak with others, we can be aware that it's a system, and we are in that system, so we don't feel alone. We are with others, and we can empower ourselves as a group of people in order to change the reality.”

According to Commisso, the ability to fight gender bias is within all people.

“We all have a power in our life in society, and we have to positively use it to create a positive impact in society,” Commisso said.

Commisso hopes that community members leave the event feeling empowered and informed, knowing they have the ability to make an impactful change.

“So I would like everybody to take from this meeting that we all have this opportunity,” Comisso said. “We just have to open the doors to knowledge, to understanding, and to others, to other people to whom you can speak about your personal feelings. They can really, can change your life.”

Audience members were engaged throughout the event, actively participating in the discussion and asking questions when they were curious about something further. The interactive format encouraged participation and made the topic feel more personable and relatable, especially as attendees connected their own experiences to those being shared.

The importance of this topic lies in the direct connection to everyday life, particularly in education, the workforce and social expectations. Gender bias is often unspoken yet it continues to influence opportunities and how individuals are perceived. Events like this create space to acknowledge those realities and begin addressing them collectively.

Overall, the event highlighted the value of open dialogue in driving awareness and impact. It served as a reminder that understanding bias is not only about discovering problems, but also about building a community where members can receive the support and education they need to make a real change in society.