A new structure for greater diversity and participation
Since the beginning of 2026, the areas of gender equality, diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance have been brought together under the Office of Equal Opportunity. This allows existing programs to be more closely integrated and synergies to be better leveraged. The Office, which is part of the Prorectorate for Young Researchers, Diversity, and International Affairs, is headed by the Central Equal Opportunities Officer, Dr. Elisabeth Heinrich. At the start of the opening event, she and Katharina Miketta thanked their “great team,” which is deeply committed to the cause. They work wonderfully together, and it is good that the new structure has now brought them together under one “roof.”
“Over many years, valuable initiatives and institutions have emerged,” said Dr. Elisabeth Heinrich, looking back on gender equality work at the University of Siegen. “With the Office for Equal Opportunity, we are now creating a strong common foundation for the future.” The goal is to strengthen visibility both internally and externally and to provide new impetus in everyday university life.
“These important issues require commitment, perseverance, and a firm determination to drive change,” emphasized Chancellor Iris Litty in her welcoming remarks. “We are therefore all very pleased to have created a strong, visible point of contact with the Office.”
The opening ceremony was held under the motto “All In – Diversity Is Our Profession” and showcased the department’s thematic scope. In addition to Dr. Antje Schnoor’s presentation on the new continuing education certificate in Gender & Diversity, a diverse supporting program provided opportunities for exchange. Journalist Maria Popov was invited as a special guest to share her personal perspectives on career paths and diversity.
The journalist, presenter, author, and content creator studied media studies at the University of Siegen. Thirteen years ago, as a student, she heard comments like: “The likelihood of ending up driving a taxi later on is greater than making it into the media.” She sat in a seminar room similar to the one she’s in now. Full of uncertainty. Now, as soon as the mic is “on,” Maria Popov is right on point and immediately has the audience’s attention. With equal parts confidence and humor, she recounts how her doubts gave way to courage. “I had no plan, no connections, no parents who could have supported me financially.” Especially as a queer woman with an immigrant background, she wondered how she could make her way into the media industry.
Today she works successfully both in front of and behind the camera; among other things, she’s worked with the content network funk, produced a report for Arte, and hosts shows on TikTok and YouTube. Her first book, “Kein Bock Club,” was recently published. Popov, who lives in Berlin, describes her ability to forge her own path as a “discrimination-sensitive journalist” as a combination of chance, the will to overcome obstacles, the courage to try new things, and the support of good mentors. At the same time, she emphasized the formative role of her time as a student. At Campus TV, she was able to try things out and gain experience. “The University of Siegen awakened in me what I really want.” She is a fan of the University of Siegen. “No, I’m actually a University of Siegen die-hard fan!”
After the program, there was an opportunity to engage with the ArbeiterKind.de initiative. Volunteers—mostly first-generation students themselves—are active with ArbeiterKind.de in around 80 local groups nationwide, including in Siegen.
