Corinna Hörst is a senior fellow and deputy director of GMF’s Brussels office. She supports the executive director in all aspects of strategic planning, operations, personnel, management, and communication. In this capacity, she plays a central role in program planning and relationship building with numerous stakeholders in the policy communities in Brussels. She monitors and frequently comments on transatlantic relations and European affairs and is engaged in various diversity & inclusion activities.
She is a member of the steering committee of the Brussels chapter of Women in International Security (WIIS) and co-founder of The Brussels Binder, an online database of female policy experts. In 2017, she co-authored the book “Women Leading The Way in Brussels,” with Claudia de Castro Caldeirinha (John Harper Publishing). Hörst has a Ph.D. and master’s degree in history and studied at Miami University in Ohio, the United States, the University of Heidelberg in Germany, and St. Andrews University in Scotland.
1. Why are you investing your time & expertise in (an) association(s) and its advancement?
Basically, I was missing diversity of perspectives at BXL conferences and media reporting. With a group of like-minded women, I co-founded The Brussels Binder to raise awareness about the need for diversity, create a practical tool to help change the way how events organizers and journalists work and provide professional development opportunities for women to step forward and be visible. Our long term goal is to change the standards for policy discussions and enable a more inclusive Europe.
I have come to really appreciate the comradery, team spirit, inclusive leadership advancing the mission of The Brussels Binder. I continue to learn, meet new, interesting people and feel I am part of something bigger.
2. In your experience, what are the 3 success factors for advancing associations?
- Inclusive leadership, i.e. listening.
- A team with members who bring different skills.
- Never lose sight of your ultimate goal.
3. Has the AM world changed when it comes to diversity and inclusion?
I have the impression that there is certainly an awareness related to the need of having d&I in the sector; however, what still needs to happen now is an adaptation of structures and process on how associations work, i.e. are managed.
4. What advice would you give the next generation of association leaders who want to make an impact?
Recognize that diversity, the inclusion of different perspectives and life experiences is an asset and make your work more effective.