Benedicte Beaugeois – Director

Bénédicte is the Founder and Director of the Festival du Film Merveilleux et Imaginaire. With 15+ years of experience across international affairs, education, and technology governance, she leads public affairs and digital transformation initiatives at EMCC, a professional organisation bringing together more than 3,000 members in France and 17,000 globally. She previously directed global technology strategy at the American Women’s Club of London and advocated for inclusive education at UNESCO on behalf of the NGO Dyslexia International.

She is also currently finalising Pymoon, an educational publishing brand creating story-driven books for children around STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics ) with a focus on curiosity, imagination and accessible learning.

She believes that culture and education, strengthened by a technological dimension, are inseparable tools for international cooperation and strategic dialogue. Bénédicte holds a Research Master’s degree in Education Sciences, a Diploma in Cinematographic Studies, and an Executive Diploma in Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations (UNITAR–ICD)

Maureen Gerby – Deputy Director

Maureen is the founder and co-director of the Festival du Film Merveilleux & Imaginaire. Alongside her work with the Festival, she previously supported entrepreneurs in developing their projects and worked within the environmental mission of the Communauté d’agglomération du Val d’Yerres, combining experience in cultural initiatives, sustainable development and local public policy.

She is also an author of fantasy trilogies, contemporary romance short stories and journals exploring the intersection of fiction and introspection. Her current projects include creative writing card games and workshops designed to encourage imagination and personal expression.