Event report
Back To | Professional French Webinar
On 23 June 2026, the Embassy of France in South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi, in partnership with FSACCI, CCI Paris Île-de-France Education (CCIP), and the Network of Alliances Françaises in Southern Africa, hosted an insightful Professional French Webinar. The session explored how French language proficiency can unlock new business opportunities and strengthen competitiveness for organizations operating locally, across Africa, and internationally.
The webinar was opened by Johann Robinet, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of strengthening linguistic and cultural ties to support economic collaboration within the Francophone business ecosystem.
The keynote presentation was delivered by Emeline Cason, who introduced the Français Professionnel and Diplôme de Français Professionnel (DFP) certification framework. She explained how these internationally recognized certifications assess practical French language proficiency in professional environments, including oral communication and written skills. Beyond validating language competence, the certification provides employees with recognized credentials that enhance their confidence, support career development, and contribute to organizational growth. Emeline also highlighted the growing importance of French language skills in sectors such as tourism, where multilingual communication has become an increasingly valuable business asset.
The second presentation was led by Pauline, Director of Alliance Française Durban, who shared how language training can strengthen organizations beyond communication. She emphasized the role of French learning in fostering team building, employee engagement, and professional development. Through Alliance Française Durban's collaboration with Club Med, tailored training programmes have been co-created to prepare employees for Francophone working environments, with approximately 80% of the resort's villages operating in French-speaking settings. Her presentation reinforced the importance of investing in employees at every level of an organisation, regardless of their role.
Anne-Charlotte Monneret, Director of Alliance Française Gaborone, concluded the speaker presentations by showcasing practical examples of how French language training has supported organisations across the region. She highlighted Alliance Française Gaborone's three-year partnership in training SADC professionals, its ongoing work with the Botswana Defence Force, and collaborations with local companies such as Gabs FM, which has expanded its French capabilities to better engage with international guests. These examples demonstrated how language skills can serve as a strategic tool for business growth, regional collaboration, and enhanced customer engagement.
Throughout the webinar, participants also explored the growing significance of Economic Francophonie, discussing how French language proficiency can improve employability, facilitate business development, and provide greater access to Francophone markets across Africa and beyond.
The session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer discussion, allowing participants to interact with the speakers and gain further insights into integrating professional French language training within their organizations.
FSACCI extends its sincere appreciation to the Embassy of France in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi; CCI Paris Île-de-France Education; the Network of Alliances Françaises in Southern Africa; and all the speakers for delivering an informative and inspiring webinar. The discussions reaffirmed that investing in language skills is not only an investment in people but also a strategic advantage for businesses seeking to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and multilingual marketplace.
