Young Women in STEM Blaze New Trails with UN-Backed Scholarship

Across the globe, the sight of women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields is a rarity, and the Philippines is no exception. Even with one of the widest STEM gender gaps in the Asia Pacific, a new wave of young Filipinas is set on changing this narrative.

The Her Legacy Project, in support of UN Women Philippines, has launched the SHESTEMS Scholarship Awards to support young women in STEM education and leadership training. This initiative, in partnership with the University of the Philippines (UP), has selected its first batch of ten ambitious and intelligent scholars. Each scholar will receive PHP 120,000 in annual financial support until graduation, alongside mentorship and networking opportunities.

One such scholar, Joeimarie Bueno, a BS Biology junior at UP Los Baños, was deeply influenced by her family of engineers and technology professionals, as well as her involvement with Women in Technology (WiTech). She aspires to pursue a master’s or PhD in planetary health and become a community researcher. Joeimarie advises other young women in STEM to explore their interests, claim their space, and find supportive communities of women in the field.

Gwyneth Precious Kiunisala, a BS Food Technology student at UP Mindanao, refutes the stereotype that food technology is merely about cooking. Her passion, sparked in high school, combines chemistry, biology, and engineering to ensure sustainable access to safe and nutritious food. She dreams of becoming a licensed food technologist and chemical technician, encouraging young women to pursue their STEM passions and make a real difference.

Kate Macabalos, who initially dreamed of becoming a civil engineer, found her calling in statistics thanks to a high school teacher. Now a second-year BS Statistics student at UP Cebu, she aims to become an AstroStatistician, inspired by her fascination with space. Kate emphasizes the importance of seeking mentors, joining communities, and forging one’s path in STEM.

Krystel Joy Swin, a BS Geodetic Engineering junior at UP Diliman, was undeterred by the gender discrimination in her field. She aims to pursue further studies in geomatics and work for government science agencies like the Philippine Space Agency. Krystel’s message to aspiring women in STEM is to stay motivated and claim their space despite the challenges.

Sophia Rhys Bañados, a BS Biology student at UP Baguio, has been passionate about science since elementary school. She aims to become a neuroscientist and inspire other women in STEM by serving as a role model. Sophia encourages young women to not be afraid and to prove that they belong in STEM fields.

Elaiza de Luna, a BS Agriculture student from a science high school background, eventually chose agriculture over environmental-related fields. She intends to help build a sustainable future and make a positive impact on farmers’ lives. Elaiza believes that each step towards STEM by young women bridges the gender gap.

Claire Jaradal, a BS Statistics student at UP Diliman, was inspired by her peers. She dreams of becoming a data analyst, addressing challenges like efficiency improvement and risk management. Claire’s advice to young women in STEM is to recognize the supportive community awaiting them.

Raiza Junio, pursuing BS Biology at UP Diliman, always dreamed of becoming a medical doctor. Her ambition extends to a research career in medical biology, focusing on cardiology. She urges young women to persist through failures and strive for success, highlighting the resilience needed in their journey.

Gwyneth Ross Bukuhan, a BS Chemical Engineering student at UP Diliman, was motivated by her brother’s journey in the same field. She hopes to work in research and development and bridge the gap between local production and Filipino-made brands. Gwyneth advises young women to pursue STEM despite its challenges.

Kryzell Carmona, a BS Geology student at UP Diliman, always knew she wanted to be a scientist. She plans to become a geologist focusing on disaster risk reduction in the Philippines. Kryzell encourages young women to pursue their ambitions and build strong support systems for their STEM journey.

The SHESTEMS Scholarship Awards stand as a beacon of hope and progress in bridging the gender gap in STEM fields in the Philippines. These ten young women exemplify the drive, passion, and resilience required to excel and lead the way for future generations. Their messages of encouragement and perseverance serve as an inspiration to all aspiring women in STEM.

Source: Rappler

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