Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are fields that offer many opportunities for innovation, creativity, and problem-solving, but women are still underrepresented in STEM careers, especially in leadership positions. According to a report by UNESCO (2015), only 30% of researchers worldwide are women, and only 3% of Nobel Prizes in science have been awarded to women. Girls are underrepresented in STEM fields. In the United States, women make up only 26% of the STEM workforce. This is a problem because STEM fields are growing rapidly and offer high-paying jobs, the availability and commitment of mentors to guide African girls in STEM is one of the key solutions to this problem.

There are many reasons why girls are underrepresented in STEM. One reason is that they are often discouraged from pursuing these fields. They may be told that they are not good at math or science or that they will not be successful in a STEM career. Among those factors, one that can increase girls’ interest and confidence to pursue STEM careers is mentorship. Mentorship is a relationship between a more experienced person (the mentor) and a less experienced person (the mentee) who share similar goals or interests. A mentor can provide guidance, support, feedback, and encouragement to the mentee, as well as serve as a role model and a source of inspiration. 

 

How does mentorship impact the inclusivity of girls in STEM?

Mentorship provides a supportive and nurturing environment for girls to explore their interests, develop skills, and gain confidence in their abilities. It is an invaluable resource that can open doors, inspire, and guide young African women towards successful careers in STEM. Let’s delve into the importance of mentorship in guiding girls in STEM and how it positively impacts their journey.

Encouragement and Inspiration:

Mentors serve as role models, sharing their own experiences and success stories. Mentors can also provide guidance, feedback, support, and opportunities for girls to learn and grow in STEM. Their guidance and encouragement instill confidence and inspire girls to believe in their potential. By seeing someone who looks like them succeed in STEM, girls are motivated to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams. When girls have mentors who are successful and passionate in STEM fields, they can see themselves in those roles and aspire to achieve their goals.

 

Building knowledge and skills:

Mentors provide valuable insights into various STEM disciplines, helping girls navigate the complex world of science and technology. They offer guidance on educational pathways, recommend resources, and introduce girls to practical experiences, such as internships and workshops. Through mentorship, girls gain knowledge, develop technical skills, and become equipped to thrive in STEM fields. 

Personal and Professional Growth:

Mentors offer personalized support, tailoring their guidance to the unique needs and aspirations of each mentee. They help girls set goals, identify strengths, and work on areas that need improvement. Mentorship fosters personal and professional growth by nurturing essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and leadership. By focusing on skill development, mentorship creates a strong foundation for professional growth and opens doors to new opportunities.

Networking and Opportunities:

One of the significant benefits of mentorship is the opportunity to expand networks. Mentors can connect girls with professionals, experts, and industry leaders, opening doors to internships, research projects, and job opportunities. It is a powerful catalyst for creating networking opportunities and unlocking new pathways to success, especially for aspiring professionals in various fields, including STEM. Building a strong network early on in their STEM journey enhances girls’ chances of success and empowers them to navigate the field with confidence.

Mentorship resources: 

  • WAAW Foundation: The mentorship program is designed to connect aspiring girls in STEM with experienced professionals who are passionate about supporting and nurturing the next generation of women in STEM.
  • Techbridge Girls: A non-profit organization that provides after-school and summer programs for girls from low-income communities to explore STEM through hands-on projects, field trips, and role models.
  • Million Women Mentors: A movement that aims to mobilize one million mentors to support girls and women in STEM pathways through online platforms, events, and partnerships with schools, universities, and corporations. 
  • Women in Engineering ProActive Network (WEPAN): A network of academic institutions, professional societies, and industry partners that works to advance the inclusion and success of women in engineering through research, advocacy, and mentorship programs.
  • Association for Women in Science (AWIS): A global network of professionals, students, and allies that supports women in STEM through mentoring circles, webinars, awards, and scholarships. 

At the WAAW Foundation, we understand the transformative power of mentorship in shaping the future of girls in STEM. Through our mentorship programs, we strive to connect aspiring girls with experienced professionals who are passionate about guiding and empowering the next generation. Together, we can bridge the gender gap in STEM and create a more inclusive and diverse field.