Orinoxian women portrait – Who is Emna ZITOUNA

Châteabriant, March 2019

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Emna Zitouna, I am Tunisian and I am 26 years old. I arrived in France in 2016 in order to continue my studies: I graduated from a master’s degree in hydrodynamics, energy and transfers research. I have been working at ORINOX for 9 months.

How did you join ORINOX?

I simply applied to a job offer through the APEC website.

Why did you choose to work at ORINOX?

To begin with, I had some doubts about the job offer because it had nothing to do with my studies. I still decided to meet David GOMEZ and Alexandre HENNERONT, who completely convinced me to join ORINOX because it is a growing company with development prospects. I knew that by working for ORINOX, I would advance in my career. Today, I am very happy to be an Orinoxian, because I met very nice colleagues and because my work really suits me.

Can you explain us what are you doing as an Applicative Engineer?

An Applicative Engineer manages the PDMS administration (TAGS in my case). He is also in charge to deal with needs of different department and he has to provide technical assistance to users. Finally, as part of my long-term travel assignment, I promote AVEVA for new projects that are starting up.

What motivates you on a daily basis?

The good atmosphere at work, the challenges I face every day, the goal to be the best in my field.

What is your personal motto?

“You’ve gotta risk it to get the biscuit !”

Which women in History have inspired you the most, and why?

I was going to talk about the legendary Elissa-Didon (founder and first queen of Carthage) but recently I watched the series “Wild Wild Wild Country” on Netflix dedicated to the American adventure of the guru Bhagwanet. It is about “Ma Anand Sheela” the secretary and spokesperson for the Indian guru “Rajneesh”. Sheela was responsible for finding a new location to expand the Rajneesh community and is called “The Queen” because of her strong personality, and her leadership. She managed to build a whole city in only 4 years! This woman completely inspired me!

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

Before the revolution, women were excluded and prohibited from participating in public affairs. For the “elders”, women were just a means of guaranteeing the human species, no more. This day is a reminder that women and men are born free and equal in rights. It means that women have the right to do, and to undertake whatever they want and that they can be leaders in the “world of men”.