UWL’s WInSTEM group discusses women in academia
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UWL’s WInSTEM (Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) committee, which is organised by staff from the School of Computing and Engineering, promotes gender diversity and inclusivity within the academic community. It recently welcomed guest speaker Maryam Ferydoun, who succeeded in sparking valuable discussions among her audience.
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Her talk, entitled ‘Women in Academia, Evaluating the Present, Imagining the Future’, addressed the persistent gender bias and unique challenges that women face within the academic environment. Drawing on her own experience of studying and employment, she provided valuable insight into how to foster inclusivity and shape a more equitable future for all.
Maryam studied at both Columbia University and the London School of Economics and Political Sciences before embarking on a career in banking with Deutsche Bank. She is also currently training as a psychodynamic psychotherapist alongside her work in finance.
Listening to Maryam’s talk was thought provoking and inspiring for her audience, which included WInSTEM members, colleagues from the School of Computing and Engineering and guests from other UWL Schools and the HR department.
When a working and studying environment does not feel accessible and safe, is it any wonder that women and girls seek more inclusive environments to carve out careers?”
WInSTEM chair Dr Anastasia Sofroniou, who is an Associate Professor of Mathematics at UWL, commented on Maryam’s talk.
A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, a world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive, a world where difference is valued and celebrated, this is a mission that is applauded and supported instinctively by WInSTEM.”
The WInSTEM committee aims to inspire women and girls to pursue studies or careers in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. WInSTEM members are keen to demonstrate that STEM subjects are accessible to everyone, promoting gender and ethnicity equality and emphasising moreover, the diverse contributions of women in these areas.
They organise and participate in a range of events and activities including outreach to schools, experiments in exhibitions, lab sessions, guest talks and social and career events in support of this.
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