Last week Linköping Science Park and Företagarna, the interest organisation for Sweden’s small and medium-sized enterprises, hosted the release party of the brand new book “Invisible participation”. And just like that, a book that challenges our views on entrepreneurship and gender equality was introduced to the world.
“I’m involved, but not really visible. So, I guess it’s about invisible participation or something. Because, in a way, I’m part of it all, just not prominently,” remarked a partner to an entrepreneur, sparking the beginning of our exploration into the book’s narrative.
A unique viewpoint
The book in question explores the intersection of two central governmental missions: promoting entrepreneurship and gender equality. Author Joakim Hedström, drawing from Matilda Eriksson’s thesis, “The Silent Voices of Entrepreneurship”, aims to broaden the understanding of what gender equality truly means in the context of entrepreneurship and business.
Louise Lennersten, Mari Hultgren & Matilda Eriksson in a panel discussion. Photo: Christine Engström
Linköping Science Park serves as the publisher of the book, providing a platform for this eye-opening research. Matilda Eriksson, whose thesis forms the basis of the book’s content, was present at the release party to share insights from her research. The research looked into two different areas, one is policy documents regarding entrepreneurship and gender equality. The other part was In-depth- interviews with women who were in a relationship with an entrepreneur. This research gives us an opportunity to comprehend the silent voices often overlooked in discussions about entrepreneurship and gender equality.
Diversity of perspectives
During the book launch event, participants were treated to a diversity of perspectives through an engaging panel. Zoé Pellisier, a student and project manager for Women Finance Days, shared thoughts representing the younger generation. Entrepreneur Sam Issa and his wife Lucia Issa provided insights from their life, managing business and family in a sustainable way.
– Being married to an entrepreneur is amazing and a lot of fun. But it is not always easy. I recognize myself from many of the stories in the book, says Lucia Issa from the stage.
Politician Mari Hultgren represented public engagement, while Louise Lennersten, an entrepreneur with a background in the world of startups, contributed with insights from her own entrepreneurship and experience from the world of startups.
– I believe this contributes to a broader conversation about how we romanticize the portrayal of the industrious entrepreneur, one who stays late every day and commits to at least 60 hours per week. It’s essential to recognize that if the entrepreneur can dedicate long hours at work, there is likely someone at home who must invest their efforts there,” remarks Louise Lennersten during the panel discussion.
Sam & Lucia Issa shared their perspective on entrepreneurship and family. Photo: Christine Engström
A national concern
The theme of the book holds national significance, meaning that everyone can benefit from reading it. From change leaders to passionate entrepreneurs, investors and the business support system.
– By addressing these topics and allowing different perspectives to be heard, we hope that this book can be the starting point of necessary discussions about entrepreneurship and gender equality in today’s society, says Fredrik Larsson, Digital Strategist & Communications Manager at Linköping Science Park.
What happens now?
We want this book to be read! If you have a forum where you think it would be suitable please reach out to us For now you can download a digital version here: Swedish and English.
Robert Wallin, Företagarna, & Fredrik Larsson, Linköping Science Park.
Matilda Eriksson gives a presentation of her research.
Joakim Hedberg, writer of the book. Photo: Christine Engström
