Vanessa Mai on International Women’s Day in March: These women inspire her

For 100 years, International Women’s Day on March 8 has drawn attention to women’s rights and gender equality. Singer Vanessa Mai (30) also raises her voice. “I believe that there is still a long way to go to absolute equality,” explains the 30-year-old. “Fortunately, there are women who stand up and resist.” In an interview, the 30-year-old explains which women particularly inspire the singer and why she supports the “StandUp” initiative by L’Oréal Paris.

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th, and has been for over 100 years. Why do we still need a women’s day today?

Vanessa Mai: Because – unfortunately – there are still great injustices. Be it the still current gender pay gap, unfortunately still outdated role models that are primarily disadvantageous for women, poverty among women in old age, violence against women, male dominance in executive floors and, and, and… I see a really great development , especially in recent years, but I also believe that there is still a long way to go to absolute equality.

What is your personal message on International Women’s Day?

May: Don’t stop, keep standing for positive change and equality. If you compare the world today with that of 60 – 70 years ago, it is very motivating to see how the role model has already changed towards more equality. But we are not finished yet and society must continue to work on this over the next few years and decades.

Which women have influenced you yourself, do you have role models?

May: Absolutely. Many women from different areas inspire me. In politics, for example, an Angela Merkel, in business, for example, a Verena Pausder, and there is also one in show business. There are so many strong women who have made a difference and achieved something. I find great inspiration there.

What would you describe as your greatest strength?

May: Very difficult question. My husband Andreas should actually say that better, but I would describe myself as quite stubborn. In a positive, maybe sometimes in a negative way (laughs). But when I set my mind to something, I want to see it through.

Has “being a woman” ever affected your career?

May: Personally, I haven’t seen that so far – or I haven’t noticed it (yet). But in the show industry itself, it’s no secret that women are disadvantaged. Just think of the Hollywood Gender Pay Gap! But luckily there are women who stand up and oppose it.

You are currently supporting L’Oréal Paris’ “StandUp” initiative against public harassment. How exactly is your involvement here?

May: I am constantly in contact with the team at L’Oréal Paris Germany about joint campaigns and approaches to draw attention to the issue of “public harassment”. We have a lot of great ideas in the pipeline and I never tire of drawing attention to them through my channels. I find it very impressive that a company like L’Oréal is putting such an important program together.

Have you had any experience here yourself?

Mai: I think that – unfortunately – almost every woman has experienced this in some way. I had situations too. Sometimes I only realize that in hindsight. In any case, the initiative spoke to me directly and I am a great advocate.

You are repeatedly criticized for your revealing stage outfits and Instagram posts. How does that affect you?

Mai: I don’t see any real criticism at all – or rather, I ignore it or it affects me so little that I don’t notice it. (laughs) Because I think that in 2023, women will be allowed to present themselves however they want.

What would you wish for, where women are in ten years. And what does it take?

May: It still takes the courage to address things and the tenacity not to let up. But I’m 100 percent sure that we can do it.