The world needs more girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), but there are few STEM communities that support them. That is why 16-year-old Caitlyn Widjaja from Bothell, Washington created Girl STEMinist, a virtual community that aims to unite girls who love STEM all over the world.
“When I was younger, I had preconceived notions of what a scientist or a coder was,” Widjaja told local news outlet King5.com. “What I associated these roles with were men in white coats who had absolutely no other interest than science.”
However, attending a local women’s camp where she got to bond with other girls and women who loved STEM changed all of that.
“I wanted to create the same community for others across the world who aren’t able to feel support locally within their schools and contribute to the mission of bridging the gender gap through a new perspective,” she told the news outlet.
Girl STEMinist reaches girls through a number of free resources, including Zoom workshops, job profiles, monthly newsletters, and digital journals, which highlight STEM careers within specific industries. Each issue features “various STEMinists journeys to their careers, articles on personal and career development, amazing artwork, and opportunities for young women to expand on their learning and interest in STEM,” according to the group’s website. The first issue, released earlier this year, focused on technology. Upcoming issues will focus on health care and fashion.
Girl STEMinist also highlights female STEM professionals and the different STEM careers women can pursue, which allows girls to see themselves represented in fields traditionally dominated by men.
“Seeing these women in unique careers in science is definitely inspiring.” Widjaja told King5.
Are you a girl who loves STEM? Girl STEMinist is looking for girls and women in high school through college to join their community. Also check out the Girls in STEM tag on IEEE TryEngineering.