Marceline & Irma: Giving women back control over their finances
A dual female portrait for International Women’s Day
Marceline Try (left), Irma Villet (right)
When it comes to women and money, one reality stands out: access to information remains uneven, and safe, judgment-free spaces where these topics can be discussed openly are still too rare. To address this gap, Marceline Try, Head of Communities and Partnerships at Societe Generale Private Banking, and Irma Villet, Sales Manager for Global Markets, created spaces dedicated exclusively to women. Their shared ambition is clear: to transform financial literacy into a powerful driver of empowerment.
Breaking stereotypes to open new possibilities
Marceline challenges the persistent assumption that women are not good with money. According to her, the problem is not a lack of skill or ability, but rather limited availability or initial interest. When women do engage with financial matters, they often make more thoughtful, structured, and prudent decisions. Financial confidence becomes synonymous with peace of mind, autonomy, and a long-term vision for themselves and those around them.
Irma, for her part, tackles another common bias: doubts about women’s abilities in technical fields such as mathematics. She sums it up simply: "Boldness, courage, experience, and expertise have no gender." She also encourages asking for help, a habit that is too often held back, not as a sign of weakness but as a catalyst for growth.
Two personalities, one driving force: Collective power
Marceline humorously describes herself as a concentration of boldness, determination, and "radioactive" energy. She excels at bringing people together, mobilizing them, and creating momentum. Shaped by three cultures—Asian, French, and British—she has developed an open, relationship with money, a topic that remains largely taboo in France. This freedom fuels her commitment to supporting women in their financial and wealth-planning decisions.
Meanwhile, Irma firmly believes in the power of complementarity. In her view, a diverse team is naturally more effective, relevant, and strong.
Their paths converge around one shared belief: collective strength amplifies individual confidence.
"Au Féminin by SGPB": Understanding and deciding with freedom
When Marceline joined the Private Banking, she immediately noticed something missing: a space where women—executives and entrepreneurs alike—could openly and confidentially discuss their wealth, strategies, and concerns.
This inspired the creation of "Au Féminin by SGPB", a club designed by women, for women. It offers a confidential and supportive environment, expert-led discussions, and peer-to-peer experience sharing—free from any commercial agenda.
Today, the annual program is offered in 10 cities across France and internationally. It brings together more than 400 members and hosts nearly 60 events each year. This success is driven by a dedicated team, remarkable energy, and the strong commitment of Private Banking employees.
The club’s mission is to strengthen decision-making skills, inspire members, share knowledge, and foster connections among them. Ultimately the club aims to help each woman take control of her finances. As Marceline powerfully reminds us: "The first barrier is mental, never technical."
Ladies events: Dare, network, grow
On the trading floor, Irma identified a need for a networking space specifically for institutional female clients. Together with her colleagues, she launched Ladies Events, gatherings where clients and employees can freely ask questions and engage directly with female experts.
The response was immediate. Participants leave feeling better informed, supported, and confident. Irma encourages them with a simple message: "If you want to do something, go for it—without underestimating yourself."
Two initiatives, one lasting impact
Through "Au Féminin by SGPB" and Ladies Events, Marceline and Irma are helping to democratize finance, encourage open dialogue, build confidence, and pass knowledge on to future generations.
Two two complementary initiatives provide women with the tools they need to confidently take their first step toward financial independence and to fully take the reins of their future.