September 12, 2024

UOW iAccelerate to host the inaugural STEMM Stroll for women

First ever regional event to encourage participation of women in STEMM

Academics, researchers, students and professionals in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine will take part in the Illawarra’s first-ever ‘STEMM Stroll’ on Tuesday 17 September from 7:30am onwards.

STEMM Stroll aims to connect and empower women and girls working in or studying science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) by providing opportunities to broaden their networks, find mentors, and share their experiences.

The University of Wollongong’s (UOW) iAccelerate is hosting the event in collaboration with Women in STEMM Australia and is sponsored by Merck and iAccelerate’s resident Sicona.

The event which will begin at UOW’s iAccelerate Centre and take participants through a scenic stroll along Puckey's Estate and Squires Way, before returning to iAccelerate for coffee, snacks, and networking.

iAccelerate Director Dr Tamantha Stutchbury said the participation of women in STEMM is crucial because diverse perspectives drive innovation and solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

_{iAccelerate Director Dr Tamantha Stutchbury}

“We are excited to bring the STEMM community together to strengthen the support network for women and girls in these fields,” Dr Stutchbury said.

“STEMM Strolls offer an informal, friendly space where participants can walk, talk, and inspire each other, taking one step further toward gender equality in STEMM."

“Our mission is to encourage more women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine, and strengthen the future of these fields and create a more inclusive and equitable society.

“Empowering women and girls in STEMM is not just about gender equality; it’s about unlocking the full potential of human talent.”

The event is open to everyone and encourages participants from all over the Illawarra to join and invite friends and colleagues to take part in this session.

STEMM Australia Co-Chair Sarah Chapman, a previous winner of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools, said STEMM Strolls can address gaps and needs for regional women in STEMM.

_{STEMM Australia Co-Chair Sarah Chapman}

“Women in STEMM Australia’s STEMM Strolls bring students and professionals together in regional areas to build and strengthen community and connection,” Ms Chapman said.

“STEMM Strolls brings together diverse experiences and provide opportunities to strengthen regional STEMM communities.”

“Women in STEMM face many challenges across the board, but these difficulties can be even more pronounced in regional areas, including limitation in resourcing, lack of role models, career challenges, isolation and maintaining work-life balance. STEMM Strolls aims grow networks and connect likeminded people, an integral piece in overcoming barriers and fostering collaboration.”

Event Details

What: Illawarra STEMM Stroll

Who: Women in STEMM Australia and iAccelerate

When: 7:30am – 9:00am, Tuesday, 17 September

Where: Starting and ending at iAccelerate, University of Wollongong. A stroll through Puckey’s Estate and along Squires Way, followed by refreshments and networking at iAccelerate.