2025 Winners
Meet the educators shaping her future in STEM!
STEM EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR
Awarded to an exceptional STEM teacher or educator who goes above and beyond in inspiring girls and young women to pursue STEM fields. This individual demonstrates creativity, dedication and a commitment to breaking down gender barriers in STEM education.
Aleks Goodier is a transformative force in STEM education, leading Chelmsford County High School’s highly successful Further Mathematics A-level provision and spearheading the rapid development of our Computer Science department. His influence extends far beyond the classroom, making a significant and lasting impact on women in STEM, particularly in the fields of mathematics, coding, and computer science.
Since Aleks joined the Further Maths team, the number of students in our Further Mathematics cohort has grown phenomenally – from just 4 students in 2017 to an impressive 45 students in the current Year 12. Remarkably, this entire cohort is composed of female mathematicians, demonstrating Aleks’ extraordinary success in encouraging young women to pursue advanced studies in mathematics.
Aleks is a relentless advocate for girls’ participation in mathematics and STEM competitions. He leads the school’s UK Mathematics Challenge (UKMC) provision and, outside school, volunteers with the UKMT organisation, contributing his time and expertise to national competition marking. His commitment ensures that students’ achievements and engagement with mathematics extend far beyond our school environment.
Inspiring students from diverse backgrounds, Aleks instils confidence and resilience, helping them envision and achieve ambitious futures in STEM. His mentorship has been life-changing for many, with three of his students recently securing places at the University of Cambridge to read Mathematics. These achievements are a testament to Aleks’ passion for his subject and his ability to inspire excellence.
Amie took up post as Headteacher at Georgian Gardens in January 2018 and is a serving member of the governing body. Previously she was Headteacher at Rudgwick Primary School (2013 – 2017) and prior to this had experience of working in primary schools in both West Sussex and Hampshire. Amie is keen to ensure that all pupils at Georgian Gardens are inspired by their learning and supported to achieve the very best that they can.
Amie is an incredible Headteacher with vision and drive. She has promoted STEM within the curriculum, runs an after school STEM club and has awarded 2 TLR’s to teachers to promote and develop the STEM subjects. She has also campaigned and fundraised for a new dedicated STEM area within the school, which now has a large scale sandpit, diggers, pulleys and water area to promote engineering and science. Amie is a hands-on Headteacher who cares about the individual needs of each pupil.
Hannah teaches computing to children aged 3-11 at Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery. She also runs digital skills clubs and coding camps in the summer. She is an amazing role model for women working in tech. The girls are inspired by her belief that anyone can be successful in the tech industry, most especially women. She has given the children some amazing opportunities including running the world’s first NFT gallery project managed and created by kids, from local Surrey and London Schools, and taking an all girls under 11s team to the Esports tournament at Cottesmore Prep School.
Irene is a Data Analyst and Data Engineer with expertise in Data Science, known for solving complex problems, enhancing customer satisfaction, and driving operational improvements. With a strong background in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science, Irene combines technical expertise with a passion for Education Technology to deliver impactful results.
As the founder of Acode STEAM Education, Irene is dedicated to expanding STEM education across Kenya, particularly in rural areas with limited access to technology. Through initiatives like a successful 10-week kids’ coding camp in partnership with D|Dialog Norway, Irene is equipping young learners with essential coding skills to help shape their future.
Historically in St Nicholas CE First School, STEM and the associated subject domains fields had been predominately the domain of the boys. Research suggests that fewer girls and women pursuing education and careers in these areas. This gender gap can limit opportunities for female pupils and perpetuate stereotypes. By actively addressing this issue at St Nicholas CE First School, Joshua has empowered our female pupils, broadened their horizons, and ensured that all pupils, regardless of gender, have equal access to the exciting possibilities within STEM.
Joshua has implemented a comprehensive STEM project with the following key strategies:
- Champion of STEM Education: Joshua is a STEM Champion, a leader with a passion for STEM education. He is responsible for driving the project, developing teachers’ STEM expertise, and leading networks for science leadership development across the school and its partner schools.
- Teacher Development: Joshua has invested in extensive professional development for teaching staff, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to deliver engaging and inclusive STEM lessons. He plans CPD that is focused and engaging and ensures that inclusion is at the heart of his model. This includes training on innovative teaching methods, integrating STEM across the curriculum, and addressing unconscious biases.
- Removing Barriers to STEM Access: Joshua has taken proactive steps to identify and remove barriers that may prevent female pupils from engaging with STEM. This includes providing additional support, mentoring, and opportunities for girls to explore STEM subjects and careers.
- STEM Engagement with Minority Groups: Joshua has made a concerted effort to engage with underrepresented groups, such as pupils from ethnic minority backgrounds, or Pupil Premium children to ensure that all pupils have equal access and aspiration to take part in STEM learning and activities.
- Science Fairs and Industry Partnerships: The school has organised regular science fairs, involving international, national, and local partners. These events provide opportunities for pupils to showcase their STEM projects, interact with STEM professionals, and gain exposure to the diverse range of STEM careers.
- Careers Engagement: Joshua has invited STEM professionals, particularly women, to share their experiences and inspire pupils. Pupils have also had the opportunity to visit STEM-related workplaces and participate in educational visits to further their understanding of STEM careers. This has been replicated for Mathematics also.
- Curriculum Integration: Joshua has worked to integrate a more diverse range of scientists, including women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, into the curriculum. This helps to challenge stereotypes and broaden pupils’ perspectives on who can succeed in STEM fields.
This has led to increased engagement and enthusiasm for STEM subjects among all pupils, with a notable rise in the number of girls expressing interest in STEM-related careers. Improved performance and confidence in STEM subjects, as evidenced by pupil progress data, pupil voice and feedback from teachers.
From the moment she steps into the classroom, Judith transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. With her bright smile and infectious enthusiasm, she makes science come alive for our students. Her lessons are not just lectures; they are adventures. Whether it is exploring the mysteries of the universe or delving into the intricacies of Chemistry, she has a unique ability to deliver lessons that captivate her students’ imaginations. The students don’t just learn about science; they experience it.
She recognises that many of her students face challenges that go beyond school. With empathy and understanding, she takes the time to connect with each of them, often in her own time, encouraging them to share their dreams and aspirations and doing her best to help them achieve these. Previous students often return to visit her, sharing their achievements and expressing gratitude for the role she played in their journeys.
Judith understands that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; its about inspiring a generation to think critically, ask questions, and embrace the wonders of the universe. She believes that every student has the potential to be a scientist, an innovator, or a leader. Her classroom is a safe haven where ideas flourish, and creativity thrives.
Lauren works tirelessly as the subject coordinator for Computing and Maths to bring these subjects to life with the engaging and challenging curricula that she has developed. This goes beyond the school day into the afterschool club provision, her work with governors to promote STEM within their vision for the school and through her networking which has enabled the school to benefit from an impactful loan of a 3D printer from BAE Systems for 3 years running.
Lauren has also supported the female coordinator of Science in her first role as subject coordinator, ensuring she had the tools and support to be an impactful leader. This shows Lauren’s determination to support other women in the role of STEM leader.
Lauren has led on many initiatives and this also reaches to putting on special robotics workshops for vulnerable families. Many single parents (predominantly women) have had the opportunity to come into the school for these workshops with their children. Lauren is driving change for these families through STEM.
Michelle is a dedicated advocate for STEM education within the home-educating community. Through her hands-on, engaging, and inclusive lessons, she has inspired a genuine love of science in countless children. Her passion and enthusiasm create an environment where young learners feel encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas, and believe in their abilities.
As a role model, Michelle makes science approachable and exciting, championing diversity and ensuring every child feels capable of succeeding in STEM. Her dedication to fostering curiosity and confidence is shaping the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem solvers.
Olivia has teaching experience at a range of day and boarding schools, both secondary and primary. She is passionate about developing an innovative, creative and fun Computing curriculum. She holds The British Computer Society Certificate in Computer Science Teaching, is a Microsoft Certified Educator Expert, a Minecraft Certified Educator, a Google Certified Educator and is a member of The British Computer Society and The Chartered College of Teaching. Olivia was appointed as a teacher ambassador for The iDEA (Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award) Award, one of only ten people in the world. She is also a Technical Reviewer for No Starch Press in California and a member of the Teacher Panel for Purple Mash. Olivia enjoys being part of The Oxford University Press Educational Research Forum and The CAS (Computing at School) Physical Computing Working Group.
Safia is an Associate Professor in the School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies. She is responsible for employability and student experience within the School.
Safia served as the EDI Lead for the School of Engineering and has worked with external organisations to make Engineering and Tech a diverse and inclusive place. Within the University, she has a Group wide responsibility for academic enrichment, in particular to support South Bank Academies.
Emerging Stem Educators
Honouring a new or early-career STEM educator who has made a significant impact in their school, college or community. This person is a fresh face in STEM education, bringing innovative ideas and inspiring students to see the potential of a career in STEM.
Ayla has been instrumental in the drive to encourage more students, especially girls, to study Computing, inspiring them with her outstanding teaching, and commitment to exciting extra-curricular activities. She has helped to change the culture of this school to make Computing an exciting and attractive choice for all students. She is an inspirational and effective classroom practitioner, already passing her expertise on by supporting new trainee teachers.
Ayla also brings Computing alive outside the classroom. The list of Computing-related clubs, trips and competitions she volunteers to lead is outstanding: Coding Club for girls, Cyber Security Club, Coding Escape room experience, trips to Allied Codebreaking attraction Bletchley Park, trips to universities, and more. Two years running, her Cyber Security Club team reached the finals of the GCHQ Cyber Security Competition.
Charlie is a passionate educator who envisions shaping the future of Computing education through EdTech and digital learning.
Driven by a desire to make a positive impact, Charlie led the transformation of digital curriculum and strategies in award-winning schools and multi-academy trusts across Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes.
In 2024, he founded the Primary Coding League, sparking a movement to redefine collaborative and competitive coding for primary-aged children in the UK and Europe.
As an avid podcast listener and new parent, Charlie finds joy in making a positive difference for others and for his family. He starts each day with a cup of coffee and a smile.
Ciara is an early career teacher (ECT) who has made an incredible impact since joining the school in September 2022. An outstanding science teacher, Ciara inspires and galvanises all her pupils, and has been a particularly impressive role model for girls interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). She also works tirelessly to support the school study skills programme, creating bespoke study guides, engaging assemblies and after-school study provision. Ciara gives her time enthusiastically and freely, running an exciting and very popular after-school science club and donning college colours to help train the senior camogie team, who were All-Ireland finalists in 2023. She is very much rooted in the community she serves, and has recently volunteered to support the local primary school with the delivery of their STEM programme.
Jeyabharathi has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at K.S.R. Institute for Engineering and Technology since 2021. She is committed to academic excellence, achieving a 100% result in Digital Principles and Computer Organization under the Anna University 2021 regulation.
Beyond teaching, she is a dedicated mentor, guiding students in both academics and personal development, contributing to their successful placements in reputed organisations. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Antenna and Microwave Engineering at NIT Trichy, she has demonstrated strong research capabilities, securing projects under the SPARC initiative. A skilled antenna designer, she also trains students in antenna design using HFSS software.
Her passion for education extends beyond her institution, as she actively conducts seminars and workshops for students at other colleges, fostering knowledge-sharing and skill development. Through her dedication to teaching, research, and mentorship, she continues to inspire and shape the next generation of engineers.
Mathusa is a final year computer science undergraduate at the University of Essex, and the president of the Women in STEM society, a Gold Standards society at the University of Essex Students’ Union.
Melanie is on a mission to inspire the girls at St. Mary’s to embrace computing, coding, and STEM in general.
In addition to teaching primary-age classes (Reception to Year 6) and launching a new vibrant and engaging Computing curriculum, Melanie organises and leads dynamic coding clubs for girls in Years 5 and 6. Determined to match the enthusiasm and potential of her pupils, she sought to create a club program that was both ambitious and enriching. Recognising the need for high-quality resources and expert input, she sought and successfully secured funding from local businesses to enhance the learning experience.
In the club’s first round, students explored sustainability by designing and constructing a shared ‘sustainable cityscape’. They applied their coding, engineering, and design skills to create interactive features, including sensor-linked lighting, moving parts, and sound boxes.
Melanie has partnered with a local STEM Ambassador and a teacher training university to elevate the students experience. Over seven sessions, the children are developing their own robotics innovation project. This involves designing and building LEGO robots, programming them to perform specific functions, and integrating them onto a collaborative ‘challenge mat’. The project will culminate in a national robotics competition in Bristol, where the winning team will have the chance to represent the UK in Houston, Texas.
Melanie has also ensured that parents and carers are actively involved and party to their children’s achievement, inviting them to demonstrations and providing a platform for the girls to showcase their work. She has dedicated her own time to running these clubs as they are run as after-school activities.
The impact of the clubs has been unquestionable. The girls are engaged, motivated, and developing valuable STEM skills. The club experiences are not only expanding the horizons of the girls at St Mary’s but also inspiring future careers in coding, engineering, and technology.
Philippa Bennett is an inspiring and dedicated early-career STEM educator who has played a pivotal role in transforming health science education at Harlow College. Through her commitment to innovation, employer engagement, and student success, she has significantly enhanced how students connect with STEM subjects and career pathways.
Philippa has been instrumental in the continued development of our employer-led curriculum, fostering key partnerships with industry leaders, including NHS, Princess Alexandra Hospital. By integrating live industry briefs, work experience, and industrial placements into the curriculum, she ensures that students develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to be resilient, adaptable, and workplace-ready.
As the pioneer of a Health Science Industry Insights Programme, Philippa has created opportunities for students to engage directly with STEM professionals and university researchers, providing them with real-world insights into STEM careers; examples of collaborating with Consultant Scientists at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Trust Laboratories. As a direct result there has been a noticeable increase in the learners’ awareness of healthcare science.
Beyond the classroom, Philippa is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM. She has organised outreach events to encourage underrepresented groups to explore STEM careers, ensuring that every student sees a place for themselves in the field.
Sadaf specialises in strategic partnerships for education and skills training non-profits. She has nearly two decades of experience driving social change for Pakistani youth, working with leading organizations such as LUMS, Generation You Employed, Acumen, and The Citizens Foundation. She is the computer science curriculum development lead for the National Curriculum Council of Pakistan, and also serves on the Board of KTrade, and Damen Support Program. She has an undergraduate degree in computer science and math, and an MBA from LUMS where she received a gold medal for first place overall. She has founded Code School with her sibling Asad.
Stella is a visionary leader and educator committed to bridging the skills and gender gap in STEM for African youth. Through a range of impactful initiatives, Stella empowers young individuals to explore and pursue careers in STEM, fostering the next generation of innovators.
As the founder of AfricanSTEMGirl Hub, she provides STEM training and exposure for individuals aged 7–17. She also leads the Africa STEM Summit, the continent’s first online STEM summit, fostering collaboration and career growth for individuals 18 and older.
Her work extends to hands-on learning experiences, including the STEM Kids & STEM Teens Festivals, which engage young learners through interactive STEM activities, and the STEM Kids & STEM Teens Competitions, where participants showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills. She also spearheads the Change the Algorithm Project, a program that redirects children’s screen time into productive, coding-based learning.
A trained full-stack developer and data scientist, Stella has authored STEM curricula in Django, Next.js, HTML, CSS, TailwindCSS, and JavaScript. She is also the author of HTML for Kids and JavaScript for Kids, making programming accessible to young learners.
Her contributions to STEM education have earned regional and international recognition, including being shortlisted for the Standard Chartered Women in Tech 2024 and named among the Top 50 Women in Africa 2024 by Donors for Africa.
Toni is the founder of Little Sparks Science, a hands-on STEM education initiative launched in October 2023. Since its inception, she has grown her reach to over 80 children per week through primary after-school clubs and KS3 home education classes, as well as up to 100 more children monthly through home education and community workshops.
Running the business entirely on her own, she manages everything from planning and testing experiments to teaching and administration. Her mission is to make science education as inclusive and hands-on as possible, allowing children to learn through experimentation and discovery.
Beyond after-school programs, she also runs STEM classes for preschoolers, fostering a love for science from an early age. Through her work with the home education community, she provides vital STEM learning opportunities for children who may not otherwise have access to structured science education.
Community STEM Champions
Celebrating those who work with community organisations, not-for-profits, or local initiatives to make STEM accessible to underrepresented groups. This individual dedicates their efforts to widening access and bridging gaps for girls and young women interested in STEM.
Alex is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the IMechE with over 15 years’ experience of working in Industry. She is the Founder and CEO of STEMAZING, a social enterprise dedicated to inspiration and inclusion in STEM. Alex is passionate about supporting women in STEM to shine as confident, visible role models and inspire our future generations of innovators and problem-solvers. She is also a Visiting Professor with the Royal Academy of Engineering at Brunel University London. Alex won the We Are The City Champions Award in 2020 for her work to champion diversity and inclusion in STEM, and STEMAZING won the Diversity Impact Award at the RAC awards in 2021.
Dragana Babić is a pioneering leader in the tech industry from Bosnia and Herzegovina, where she serves as the CEO of The First International CyberSchool of the Future for the New IT Generation, KIBERone, in Banja Luka.
As a Google Women Techmakers Ambassador from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the first female Country Leader of the WomenTech Network in her country, Dragana has dedicated her career to empowering women and youth in technology, particularly in underrepresented regions. She has been a finalist for prestigious awards, including the Women Changing the World Awards 2024, the WomenTech Network Global Awards 2023, and Europe’s Best Digital Changemaker 2024, recognizing her contributions to cultural diversity, inclusion, and community impact.
Through her work, Dragana has also achieved membership in the prestigious RedBox Me by Cartier, becoming the first woman from the Balkans to join this modern Agora that brings together exceptional global leaders, artists, and innovators. Her ongoing efforts focus on breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring the next generation of tech leaders.
Dr Lucy Catto is a scientist and STEM Ambassador. She also leads Fossils and Fireworks, offering fun, safe and engaging hands-on science workshops in Norfolk for children, aged 3-11.
Her aim is to ignite curiosity, build self-esteem and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers while having lots of fun!
Jemima is passionate about fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM and empowering the next generation of STEM professionals.
Leonie is a former chemistry teacher who wants to inspire the next generation of scientists. She has been named as one of the UK’s top 100 female entrepreneurs.
Leonie set up her business Amazelab from her dining room table nearly five years ago. She now delivers workshops and education material to get children interested in science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM).
Leonie started by delivering virtual STEAM workshops to children during the pandemic in 2020. Setting up conical flasks on her dining room table and using a simple webcam, she wanted to design and deliver practical, safe and affordable experiments children could join in with at home.
Amazelab now works with dozens of schools, libraries, museums, charities and community groups to deliver workshops across South Yorkshire and beyond.
In January 2019, Lin started an after-school coding club for children despite not having a technical background. During the pandemic, despite the many challenges in her own life, she worked tirelessly to lead the successful transition from in-person sessions to virtual sessions and Ignite Hubs have embraced this new virtual way of volunteering and teaching children and young people head-on.
Ignite Hubs have created their own teaching curriculum, materials and resources, expanded the coding sessions from once a week to five sessions a week covering HTML/CSS, Scratch, Python and also launched their Duke of Edinburgh Programme. Lin’s vision for Ignite Hubs has attracted and inspired others to join the mission to create and launch five educational Hubs and formulate an operational blueprint to roll out what they do across the country.
Ignite Hubs teach real skills for the real world and particularly target girls, as they are hugely under-presented in Tech and STEM, children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs and disabilities. Today, Ignite Hubs supports nearly 100 students a week and has impacted over 300 students since it started.
Manik has been working really hard to build a community for girls so that they can get to know about the opportunities and resources that available to them, and also providing access to exclusive mentorship sessions on regular basis featuring industry professionals.
Throughout her career, Mini has been dedicated to promoting STEM education and inspiring the next generation of leaders in technology. As a TechWomen100 winner, STEM ambassador, and AI & Cyber Security Specialist, Mini has consistently championed the representation of women and underrepresented groups in STEM.
Her advocacy efforts focus on creating a more inclusive environment by actively participating in initiatives that drive positive change. Mini has been involved in mentoring programmes, speaking at industry events, and promoting diversity and inclusion within her organisation and beyond. Mini’s work has been recognised in various forums, celebrating AI visionaries in the UK.
As a mother of two young children, Mini understands the challenges women face in balancing career and family. She strives to be a role model for others, demonstrating that it is possible to excel in both personal and professional life.
Nancy is a devoted advocate for young girls in STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), passionate about empowering the next generation of women and youth, through technology and innovation. As the founder of Women in Sustainable STEM Africa, she has a focus on breaking barriers and creating opportunities. Nancy has inspired over 1500 girls in underserved communities to embrace STEM education, unlocking their potential to solve pressing global challenges.
She has also led a team to trained more than 25 startups and SMEs with knowledge of a safer digital ecosystem by understanding cyber security threats. They have hosted STEM kids mentorship sessions supporting students to foster interest in STEM subjects and navigate academic challenges. They have traversed Meru and Laikipia County, Kenya, to support visionary learners in various Robotics projects that address sustainable agriculture using sustainable technology. They offer tailored STEM curriculum to empower young minds to acquire coding skills while conducting hands-on workshops that has trained over 50 teachers explore AI-driven tools that are essential in enhancing classroom engagements with learners.
Nancy has excelled at bringing together over 100 innovators, in creating sustainable solutions catered for the existing local challenges, which are solved using local solutions. These innovators have gone through a training process from ideation to commercialization phase. By fostering collaboration and leveraging technology, Nancy has championed initiatives that address pressing societal issues, from education equity to sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind. Through mentorship, community outreach, and capacity-building programs, Nancy ignites a culture of curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving. Their dedication to creating inclusive, technology-driven solutions empowers communities to thrive and positions young girls as leaders in shaping a brighter, more equitable future.
As someone who transitioned into tech after a career break, Sara noticed how underrepresented women are in the industry. Sara joined Tech She Can because she believes in its mission to inspire young people, particularly girls, to explore careers in technology. With a background in data analysis, education, and community engagement, Sara became the Champion Programme Coordinator at Tech She Can.
Tech She Can’s vision for a more inclusive tech landscape aligns with Sara’s belief that everyone regardless of gender or background should have the opportunity to pursue a career in technology. Through her role, she can contribute to closing the gender gap and breaking down barriers for underrepresented groups, helping them access the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in STEM. Tech She Can provides Sara with the platform to create real, lasting impact in the lives of young people and in the future of the tech industry.
STEM Role Models
This category honours those who serve as a role model for girls in STEM, exemplifying leadership, resilience, and passion for diversity in STEM.
Alice currently works full time as a Cyber Culture Manager for Deloitte. In her spare time, she works for a suicide prevention charity called R;pple, that she set up in memory of her late brother Josh who took his own life in November 2020.
Ripple is a browser extension, loaded with hundreds of words and phrases relating to the topic of self-harm and suicide, which can be downloaded onto computers and laptops. It is free to use for parents, schools, colleges and universities, and since its inception it has now been downloaded almost 2 million times and has intercepted almost 50,000 legitimate harmful online searches
Although she has over ten years’ experience of working in Cyber security, she set up Ripple and the technical aspects that go with it from scratch and has grown it into what it is today as a legacy to her brother.
Just before hitting 40, Arvinder Thandi made a bold leap from a non-technical field into the exciting world of tech, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. As a mother of two incredible girls, a wife, and a huge fan of Lego and Star Wars, she brings a unique blend of creativity and determination to her work as Performance Engineer at Nationwide Building Society.
Over the past year, Arvinder has inspired children and young girls to explore STEM careers by partnering with a charity to provide coding classes to 120 primary school children from underrepresented communities in London. Her dynamic leadership, passion for tech and education, and unwavering commitment to diversity have driven her to create impactful initiatives.
In 1995 Beti Williams set up the ITWales programme within the Department of Computer Science at Swansea University.
The ITWales programme included:-
- the ITWales graduate and undergraduate summer vacation placement scheme
- Software Alliance Wales
- ITWales.com. On line magazine
- ICT Forum Wales
Whilst regularly talking to classes of 80 to 90 Computer Science undergraduates it was worrying to find that only 3 – 5 of the students were female
Beti organised a get together of female students within the Department of Computer Science at Swansea University and Swansea Metropolitan University to establish an annual ITWales Celebration of International Women’s Day with the aim of encouraging more girls, women and women returners to consider a career in computing and the ICT sector.
Over the last 25 years speakers have included academics, degree apprenticeship achievers, business leaders, speakers from the medical profession and the media all with a focus on ICT and the use and development of computing within a wide range of careers.
In 2003, Beti obtained funding to set up Technocamps to address the problem of how computing was taught in schools. Technocamps set up hubs in the Computer Science Departments in each of the 8 universities in Wales. This allowed all schools in Wales to have access to Technocamps workshops via their local universities.
Technocamps includes :-
- School workshops designed according to the age of the pupils and delivered in both Welsh and English
- Technoteach to upskill teachers
- Playground Computing
- Degree Apprenticeships
- Robotics competition for schools
In recognition of her long term efforts, in 2012 she was made an MBE for Services to Women in Science, Engineering and Technology, having earlier been a finalist in Welsh Woman of the Year and in 2006 was awarded Best Woman of the Year in Academia and the Public Sector in the UK Blackberry Awards.
After her retirement she was also made Patron of Technocamps.
Charlene Hunter is the CEO & founder of Coding Black Females, a non-profit that advocates for Black women in tech. She founded the organisation after realising how underrepresented Black women were in the sector. She wanted this to change, and ensure that Black women were able to discover role models and see familiar faces within the industry.
Charlene has a BSc in Mathematical Sciences and an MSc in Computer Science from the University of Birmingham, and over 10 years of experience as a Java and C# developer and technical architect. She also has skills in requirements capture, technical architecture, testing and various other aspects of building successful software applications.
She has a strong passion to increase and showcase the skills and talents of Black women in tech and is determined to diversify the tech sector.
Charlene has received multiple awards and recognition work she does to support Black women in tech.
Rosemary holds two master’s degrees from the University of Durham, UK. She completed her undergraduate master’s degree of Physics in 2013 which focused on physics, mathematics, computer programming and astronomy. In 2015, she received her master’s degree in Astronomy, where she conducted research on gamma-ray emission from black holes.
In 2019, Rosemary graduated with a doctorate in astronomy from the University of Sussex, UK. During that time, she spent one year as a visiting scientist in Paris, two weeks as a visiting astronomer at a Hawaiian observatory and travelled to further countries to present her findings at several international conferences.
From a young age, Rosemary spent several weeks per year away from home onboard military training vessels and land bases as a Cadet Petty Officer with the Sea Cadets from 2002 to 2009. In 2009, Rosemary joined the Naval Reserve base HMS Calliope and its vessel HMS Example as an Officer cadet and was later promoted to Midshipman in the Royal Naval Reserves.
Between 2013 and 2018, Rosemary spent more than one year working as a simulation support engineer and research data scientist in the UK, where she worked on software code development projects and developed machine learning techniques for anomaly detection from robotic sensors.
In 2019, Rosemary started a postdoctoral research fellowship in astrophysics at the Max Planck Institute for Extra-terrestrial physics in Munich, Germany, to study the evolution of galaxies with astronomical data from space- and ground-based telescopes.
After completing this postdoctoral work in 2022, Rosemary joined French space agency CNES in Paris, France, as a research fellow in space science, where she worked on upcoming ESA/CNES missions such as EUCLID or the analysis of James Webb Space Telescope observations.
Rosemary holds awards for telescope observation time at international observatories ALMA and NOEMA and for her PhD thesis from the University of Sussex Astronomy Centre.
In November 2022, Rosemary was selected as an ESA astronaut candidate. She commenced her one-year basic training programme in April 2023 and attained astronaut certification at ESA’s European Astronaut Centre on 22 April 2024, rendering her eligible for spaceflight assignments.
Elizabeth is the Chief Executive of the Digital Poverty Alliance, which aims to end digital poverty in the UK once and for all by 2030.
Her work at the DPA focusses around leading the programmatic activity of the Alliance, alongside managing operations for its parent charity, the Learning Foundation. The DPA brings together government, industry and charities in the UK, and provides both advocacy for long term solutions, alongside practical delivery to support those in need to get online – with 14m in the UK rarely engaging with the digital world.
An award-winning leader within charities, Elizabeth has over 15 years experience working within the not for profit sector, including in charities focusing on education and raising aspirations. Elizabeth is based in south east England, and also holds Trusteeships in charities supporting both UK and international causes.
Kelly is a Junior Full Stack Developer specialising in SQL, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Python. Kelly is actively developing her skills and building hands-on experience with modern frameworks. With a background in Cloud Computing (AWS, VMware Cloud, Azure) and Data Center Virtualisation from her previous role as a Digital Solutions Engineer, Kelly brings a unique blend of technical and business expertise to her work. Kelly also holds a Master’s in Engineering Technology and Business Management from the University of Leeds.
In addition to coding, Kelly is the host of the award-winning “Women In STEM Podcast”, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of inspiring women in tech, from CEOs to scientists. The podcast features expert insights, career tips, and motivational stories to empower others, making it a valuable resource for anyone passionate about diversity and inclusion in STEM.
Paula is an award-winning STEM Champion who has made outstanding contributions to encouraging the next generation into engineering and construction. As a highly visible role model and industry leader she is not only a prolific speaker and blogger but a force for good. She improves workplaces through company policies and industry wide campaigns including #TheLine which tackles the use of language head on. Paula brings togethers collaborators through Engineering Together with a wide range of online and in person events. She is a leader in her region with many roles related to engineering careers and business, she was awarded an Honorary Professorship at Teesside University in 2023. Her many significant national and international roles including ICE Trustee and Head of UK Regions and WES Trustee and Climate Emergency Group Chair. Paula’s tangible contributions quite simply make our industry a better place to work and more sustainable for the future.
With over a decade of experience as a STEM education leader, Tracey-Jane, Founder and CEO of Junior Einsteins Science Club® has dedicated herself to nurturing a lifelong love of learning in ‘Junior Einsteins,’ sparking their innate curiosity and creativity. At the helm of Junior Einsteins Science Club®, she leads a team of Junior Einsteins owner operators, orchestrating high-energy STEM events for primary school children. The internationally successful franchise has impacted thousands of children, collaborating notably with The United Nations. A speaker at the United Nations ‘International Women and Girls in Science Day’ in 2020, she extended girls in STEM worldwide, and her efforts garnered recognition, including winning first prize at the International VOOM 2018 Richard Branson Virgin Media Business Awards. She was honored to be recognised as the winner of the ‘STEM Woman of the Year Award 2023 Impact Award’ in Ireland. Acknowledgment at The Franchise Awards Ireland attests to her dedication to excellence. Academically, Tracey-Jane holds a Masters Degree in Natural Science from Trinity College Dublin, an MSC in Medical Microbiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and a Negotiation Mastery certificate from Harvard Business School.
Not-For-Profits in STEM Education
Honouring a not-for-profit organisation that provides excellent STEM educational resources or programs for young women and girls, making a lasting impact on the future of STEM diversity.
The Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society (CSES) has been instrumental in enhancing the STEM extracurricular provision at Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHS). Advocates of women in STEM CSES has, over many years, generously supported CCHS in various STEM initiatives thereby enriching the academic experience of our students and inspiring them to choose careers in traditionally male-dominated areas such as engineering and computing
One of the most notable events supported by CSES is the annual TEXPO competition. This event provides a platform for aspiring engineers to demonstrate their creativity and technical skills. The competition provides a wonderful opportunity for students engage with industry experts and gain valuable insights into the engineering sector. Last year, CCHS showcased seven exemplary projects alongside other schools in the TEXPO Competition with four of these projects coming from the Year 10 Engineering club. This club was successfully established thanks to the generous support of CSES, which provided essential materials and ongoing mentorship. In addition to the resources, CSES generously gave their time, arranging for an experienced engineer to visit the club weekly, offering valuable guidance and expertise to help students refine their projects and develop their engineering skills.
The annual Christmas lecture, offered free of charge, is an excellent opportunity for many of our students, as well as students from various schools across Essex, to listen to and engage with prominent scientists and engineers. Alongside this, the monthly public lectures offer deeper insights into the recent developments in technology, innovation and research.
In addition, some of our Year 10 students have been fortunate to take part in their Saturday Club, another initiative by CSES, which explores different areas of STEM, further enriching their learning experience. Through hands-on activities, interactive workshops and mentorship from industry professionals, students developed a wide range of technical skills and gained valuable practical insights into potential career opportunities.
As well as the considerable benefits of the extensive clubs that they support our students also benefit from their support with interviews as they generously give their time to run practice interviews for admissions to prestigious institutions for STEM related courses. There is no doubt that this charity organisation which relies on a group of enthusiastic and committed volunteers is inspiring our younger generation to join the UK’s STEM force.
Educating the Children’s mission is to empower girls and young women in East Africa through educations and training.
At 64%, Uganda has the highest youth unemployment rates in the world. Urban youth are four times more likely to be unemployed than rural youth. Female youth are twice as likely to be unemployed compared to male youth (The Brookings Institute, Washington)
Software engineering is now the world’s most in demand profession. There are five open jobs for every software developer looking for one in the U.S. alone. In the EU it is estimated that there will be a shortage of over 560,000 ICT professionals by 2020 (The Financial Times)
Kampala has a bustling and growing tech scene and there is a huge demand for ICT skills from both corporates and start-ups, and not enough supply due to inadequate training opportunities. University courses are not geared towards developing practical work skills.
Existing programmes in the region are scare and do not have a focus on connecting talent with local jobs. There are additional challenges for women who lack the confidence and conviction to pursue male dominated careers.
Educating the Children have partnered with The Innovation Village (a local start up hub) to bring a high quality course training young Ugandan women in coding, equipping them with the skills to find jobs in software development and STEM careers.
The course not only focuses on developing hard coding skills (in collaboration with local businesses), but also developing other attributes such as positive mind set and work readiness. It ends with a hackathon where students solve real time challenges for local businesses leading. Successful graduates are offered internships, scholarships and other linking opportunities through our ecosystem of partners.
Educating the Children linked 80% off their first cohort to jobs, internships and scholarships. Previous students have also come back to facilitate new cohorts. Their previous cohort has resulted in graduates going on to work internationally for Tata and locally at Trustful Trade, Kanzu Code and Laboremus.
Girls Who Code is an international nonprofit working to close the gender gap in technology and change the image of what a programmer looks like and does. With their seven-week Summer Immersion Program, after school Clubs, College Loops program and New York Times best-selling series, they are leading the movement to inspire, educate, and equip young women with the computing skills to pursue 21st Century opportunities. Girls Who Code has reached 300,000 girls around the world.
Greenlight for Girls an international established non-profit organisation, with international headquarters in Brussels, Belgium and offices in the US. They are still fuelled by passion for instilling confidence in girls, and wish to share the fun of science in all its forms!
Greenlight for Girls organise interactive events around the world with their global partners. They craft hands-on workshops thanks to expertise in STEM, design thinking, and experiential learning.
They connect girls with inspiring role models in the STEM professions thanks to local & global networks. They share knowledge and resources about STEM and Women in Science in a fun and educative way.
Primary Coding League believe that primary aged coding is vital to developing and inspiring the future generation of coders and computer programmers in boys and girls around the UK.
However, no one was shouting about it loud enough and the offer for primary aged coders was minimal compared to the offer for secondary students.
Primary Coding League strive to create competitions and spaces where young people can get creative and express themselves through code, but also have the opportunity to be competitive and be proud of what that can achieve.
Through competitions and workshops, young people are given the opportunity to collaborate while coding in a truly unique format.
The STEM Discovery Centre is a unique educational facility, created in collaboration with North Hertfordshire College, Airbus, and Hertfordshire Futures. Its mission is to celebrate STEM, inspire young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, break down barriers surrounding STEM education and careers, and foster a deeper understanding of the world of STEM and the world we live in. The STEM Discovery Centre’s passionate, predominantly female team excels at delivering sessions that help young people make connections to STEM through hands-on experiences.
Located in Airbus Mars Yard, the facility provides access to view ExoMars prototypes, offering unique career links and insights into space exploration. Its Exploration Zone offers visitors hands-on experiences with a variety of exhibits covering themes such as Space, Energy (including light), Forces and Magnetism, Mechanisms, Human Body, and Maths.
The STEM Discovery Centre offers school trips that spark the imagination, electrify the senses, and galvanize young people. Its education programme is linked to the Key Stage 2 and 3 curriculum and is designed and delivered by North Hertfordshire College.
In addition to our school programmes, the STEM Discovery Centre runs several Home Educator programmes throughout the year, suitable for children aged 3-16 years. 42% of children participating in these sessions are young girls.
The STEM Discovery Centre also offers public open days, summer camps, CPD sessions, and team-building activities.
Stemettes is an award-winning social enterprise working across the UK and Ireland and beyond to inspire and support girls, young women and non-binary young people into Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths careers.
Technocamps is a wide-reaching digital programme. Their main goal is to support digital upskilling across Wales through our strong partnerships with all Welsh universities. Their programmes are all free to the recipient, as they are fully-funded by the Welsh Government and HEFCW. They are facilitated by the commitment of Welsh universities working collaboratively.
In the classroom:
Technocamps’ ultimate goal is increasing young people’s engagement with STEM subjects. They work with secondary schools through their STEM Enrichment programme and primary schools through their Playground Computing programme. They also provide training and professional development for teachers to prepare them for the challenges of delivering in a technical and dynamic environment.
Beyond the classroom:
Technocamps’ commitment to computing education extends beyond the school environment. They provide digital upskilling opportunities to people in employment and opportunities for lifelong learning. Their fully-funded Degree Apprenticeship programme offers the chance to earn and learn by working towards a degree while in full-time employment. Technocamps also work with businesses and industry to create opportunities to ensure the digital pipeline is generated locally, helping to provide high quality jobs and support the Welsh economy.
Tech She Can was founded in 2018 by Sheridan Ash MBE with 18 like-minded individuals who are all passionate about improving the pipeline of women going into technology roles. Recognising that the gender imbalance couldn’t be solved by a single organisation, and that collaboration was needed across sectors, government and educators, the founding members joined forces to set up The Tech She Can Charter. Since 2018, Tech She Can membership has grown ten-fold to over 200 member organisations. Research commissioned by Sheridan and carried out by PwC UK, revealed the extent of the gender imbalance in the tech industry. Just 27% of the A-level and university age females surveyed were interested in careers in technology, compared to 62% of males, while only 3% of females cited technology as their first choice career.
Women in Sustainable STEM Africa (WiSSA) is a community aimed at empowering women to shape a sustainable future through STEM fields across Africa.
They are passionate about promoting gender equality, sustainability and innovation in STEM fields, and believe that by harnessing the talents and potential of women, they can build a brighter and more sustainable future for Africa and beyond.
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