How emlyon’s Women in Data Science event is helping shape a more inclusive AI future
Over the past few years, artificial intelligence and data science has transformed industries across the world. However, as its relevance in the world grows, so does the need to question who builds these technologies and what perspectives they reflect.
At emlyon business school, this conversation took centre stage during the third annual Women in Data Science (WiDS) Paris event, held on February 10, 2026. Bringing together students, industry professionals, and academic leaders, the event explored how increased diversity in data science can lead to more equitable, innovative, and impactful technologies.Across an evening of keynote talks, panel discussions, and collaborative challenges, participants encountered both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with working in AI today, while also building connections that extended beyond the lecture theatre.
Why diversity matters in data science ?
While technical expertise remains at the heart of data science, events such as WiDS highlight a broader reality. The make-up of teams directly influences and can enhance the systems they create.
More diverse teams are better equipped to identify bias, design fairer technologies, and develop solutions that reflect the complexities of the real world. Without that diversity, technologies risk reinforcing pervasive inequalities rather than challenging them. Despite this, as many speakers and participants noted, women remain underrepresented in the field.
“I’ve been working in AI since my higher education because this field fascinates and inspires me. However, I’ve always been struck by the lack of women in it,” said Imène Brigui, Associate Dean for Master’s Programs at emlyon and WiDS Paris ambassador.
Creating space for connection and representation
For Mary Sheeba Theodore, a student in the Master in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the WiDS event stands out for the sense of community it creates.
“This was actually my second year participating, and this time I was part of the organising team,” she explains. “What draws me to WiDS is the sense of belonging. Seeing women leading research, building products, and shaping the future of technology makes it much easier to imagine yourself in those roles.”
Mary’s own path into data science reflects the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of the field. After more than five years working as a Quality Assurance Engineer, she became interested in how data was shaping decision-making during her time at Virtuo in Paris.
“I saw how data was influencing everything, from product features to operational strategy,” she says. “It wasn’t just supporting decisions anymore, it was shaping them. That’s what made me want to move closer to where those insights are created.”
At emlyon, she has been able to build both the technical and strategic skills needed to navigate this shift, while also engaging with initiatives like WiDS that broaden the conversation around the field.
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From theory to real-world impact
A key theme throughout the event was the shift from gaining a theoretical understanding of AI ethics to its real-world application.
Speakers including Marine Sortais, Data Consulting Director at Artefact, explored how organizations can embed fairness, transparency, and robustness into systems from the start of development across the entire lifecycle. Drawing on real-world banking applications, she emphasized the need to question of AI models and build those that both work and are worthy of trust.
Similarly, Ségolène Dessertine-Panhard, Global Tech Lead for Responsible AI at AWS, highlighted how governance frameworks can act as enablers rather than constraints. These frameworks can help organizations scale innovation while maintaining trust.
For Mary, these discussions brought a new clarity to the role data professionals play in shaping society.
“One of the talks that really stayed with me was about how responsible AI is no longer just a concept. It has to be embedded in real systems,” she says. “It made me realise how important it is to think about the broader impact of the technologies we build.”
The event also provided opportunities for hands-on learning. A Data Science Challenge organized by SFR, a telecommunications company, allowed participants to engage directly with real-world problems, applying their technical skills in a collaborative and competitive environment. Alongside this, roundtable discussions, some led by students themselves, created space for more open and nuanced conversations around career transitions, ethics, and the realities of working in data-driven roles.
Building confidence through shared experiences
Beyond technical insights, one of the most valuable aspects is how WiDS enables discussion.
Maria Abi Raad, a graduate of the Data Science & AI Strategy program and one of the organisers of the first WiDS editions at emlyon, highlights the importance of representation in shaping career ambitions.
“In tech, we still often see the same image of leadership, mostly male,” she says. “I wanted to contribute to bringing a different perspective and highlighting the incredible women shaping this field.”
For Maria, what makes WiDS particularly impactful is the openness and inclusiveness of the discussions. “Meeting women who have achieved incredible things in their careers, but who are also very approachable and honest about their challenges, makes a huge difference,” she explains. “It makes their journeys feel more relatable and accessible.”
Her experience studying on the program also highlighted the persistent imbalance in representation. While progress is being made, she notes that women still make up a minority in many cohorts.
“Some of the quieter women in the program are incredibly talented, but they’re not always the most vocal,” she says. “Creating spaces where they feel comfortable to speak up and share their perspectives is really important.”
Initiatives like WiDS help bring those voices forward, creating opportunities for students to engage more confidently with both peers and industry professionals.
Encouraging the next generation
As AI continues to evolve at pace, both Mary and Maria emphasise the importance of creating environments where students feel supported as they enter the field.
“What’s interesting with AI right now is that it’s changing so quickly,” Maria says. “Even experienced professionals are still learning, which makes the field feel more open and collaborative.”
This dynamic can help reduce some of the barriers to entry, particularly for those who may not see themselves reflected in traditional tech career paths.
For Mary, the structure of her program, which combines academic learning with practical experience, is key to preparing for that future.
“One of the most valuable aspects is the opportunity to apply what we learn in real business environments,” she says. “That’s where you really start to understand how data can drive meaningful decisions.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to work at the intersection of data, product, and business strategy, translating complex insights into impact. Both students also highlight the longer-term value of initiatives like WiDS in building networks and sustaining momentum.
“There’s a real sense of community and even legacy in being part of something like this,” Maria adds. “Some students build meaningful connections or even discover career opportunities through these events.”
As the field continues to grow, these moments of connection, whether through a keynote, a conversation, or a shared experience, can play a significant role in shaping future careers.