Between Motherhood and Career Decisions: New “WHU Mamas” Initiative Launches

For many women, the real challenges of motherhood begin only after pregnancy and childbirth: growing into the role of a mother, returning to work, and finding the right balance between career and family can be complex, demanding, and emotionally draining. To support women during this pivotal phase of life, WHU–Otto Beisheim School of Management is launching a new initiative titled "WHU Mamas".

WHU Mamas is designed for pregnant colleagues, women returning from parental leave, and those who are rethinking or further developing their professional roles. “Our mission is to create a trusted space where women can connect, share experiences, and access guidance during one of the most transformative phases of their personal and professional lives. Through community, dialogue, and targeted skills development modules, WHU Mamas enables women to navigate motherhood and career,” says Anna Zeis, Director of Learning & Innovation at WHU. The idea for WHU Mamas emerged in September of last year, shortly after she returned to work following the birth of her daughter. Building on her own experience, Zeis founded the project in collaboration with Daniela Nowak from the university’s HR department.

Meetings every six weeks

The kickoff online meeting takes place today, January 26. In this format, meetings will occur every six weeks (with the next ones on March 10, April 22, and June 11). In addition to the online format, in-person meetings will be offered at both WHU campuses in Vallendar and Düsseldorf, to ensure maximum flexibility and inclusivity. The initiative also plans to create a platform where participants can share materials, articles, podcasts, event announcements, and sources of inspiration.

“The program offers a focused set of modules - including HR topics, personal marketing, storytelling, and confidence building, with future additions such as coaching, self-reflection, and career empowerment to further strengthen participants’ growth. Most importantly, WHU Mamas will be also co-shaped by the interests and needs of the participants themselves,” says Zeis. 

In the long term, the initiative also aims to secure external funding - for example, to support childcare services or child-friendly infrastructure on campus.

Positive response from the WHU community

Even before the first meeting, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Many colleagues have approached me to say how meaningful they find this initiative,” Zeis reports. “WHU Mamas is creating a strong network that demonstrates how work-life balance, mutual support, and professional ambition can be thoughtfully combined and actively lived at WHU.”