2024 Girls in STEAM Conference: Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Science
A free conference to motivate school girls through personal experiences of successful women.
Ramsel Eclarin
1/20/20244 min read
On February 12, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, an internationally recognized day that aims to promote gender equality and empower women and girls in the field of science. As part of this celebration, we are thrilled to invite you to the 2024 Girls in STEAM Conference, a one-day event dedicated to inspiring and engaging young girls in grades 6 to 9 in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).
The 2024 Girls in STEAM Conference is a unique opportunity for young girls to meet and interact with accomplished women professionals in various STEAM fields. The conference will take place on Monday, February 12, from 9:30 AM to 3:15 PM at the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Regina, Canada. This event promises to be a day filled with fun, learning, and hands-on activities that will ignite the passion for STEAM in every participant.
The conference will kick off with an inspiring keynote address by a prominent woman leader in the STEAM industry. Her words will set the tone for the day, encouraging the young girls to dream big and pursue their interests in these exciting fields. The keynote address will highlight the achievements and contributions of women in STEAM, showcasing their groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.
Following the keynote address, participants will have the opportunity to join one of four breakout sessions. These sessions will be led by women professionals who are experts in their respective STEAM fields. Each session will focus on a specific area, allowing participants to explore and delve deeper into their areas of interest. The breakout sessions are designed to be interactive and hands-on, giving the girls a chance to engage in practical experiments and projects.
The breakout sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including:
Science: From chemistry to biology, this session will introduce participants to the wonders of scientific exploration. They will have the chance to conduct experiments, observe fascinating phenomena, and learn about the latest advancements in scientific research.
Technology: In this session, girls will discover the power of technology and its impact on our daily lives. They will explore coding, robotics, and other cutting-edge technologies, gaining valuable skills that can open doors to exciting career opportunities.
Engineering: This session will introduce participants to the world of engineering and its role in shaping the future. They will engage in hands-on engineering challenges, learning problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.
Arts and Math: This session will highlight the intersection of arts and math, showcasing how creativity and logic can work together to create beautiful and functional designs. Participants will explore mathematical concepts through artistic activities, fostering a deeper appreciation for both disciplines.
Throughout the day, participants will have the chance to interact with the presenters and ask questions. They will also have the opportunity to network with other like-minded girls who share their passion for STEAM. By connecting with women professionals and fellow participants, the girls will gain valuable insights, mentorship, and inspiration to pursue their dreams in the STEAM fields.
The 2024 Girls in STEAM Conference is not just about learning and skill-building; it is also about fostering a sense of empowerment and self-belief. By showcasing the achievements of women in STEAM, the conference aims to break down barriers and stereotypes, encouraging young girls to dream big and pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations or gender norms.
We believe that every girl has the potential to become a leader and trailblazer in the world of science. The 2024 Girls in STEAM Conference is a stepping stone towards realizing that potential. Join us on February 12th and be a part of this transformative event that will inspire and empower the next generation of women in science.
Cost
The 2024 Girls in STEAM Conference is a free event for all participants, but registration is mandatory. Although the conference will be presented virtually, there are limited supplies available for the breakout session activities. Once participants are accepted to the event, they will receive a kit of materials to assist them in completing the breakout session activities. Additionally, teachers who register will be provided with enough materials for a class of thirty students.
Keynote Speaker
Katrina German, the founder and CEO of Ethical Digital, is a highly sought-after keynote speaker. With her vast knowledge and expertise in the digital marketing industry, she captivates audiences with her insightful presentations. Known for her dynamic and engaging speaking style, Katrina has the ability to inspire and motivate individuals to embrace ethical practices in the digital world. Her speeches are not only informative but also thought-provoking, encouraging listeners to think critically about their online presence and the impact it can have on society. Whether she is addressing a small group or a large audience, Katrina's passion for ethical digital practices shines through, making her a compelling and inspiring keynote speaker.
Mentors
The event will focus on various streams, each with a dedicated mentor.
Chantelle Kangles, the VP Legal of Innovation Credit Union, will guide participants in the field of cybersecurity.
Amy Pitman, the Application Engineer Team Lead at Siemens, will serve as a mentor in the digital skills stream.
Jordan Nixdorf, a Forensic Psychologist at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, will provide guidance in the field of forensic psychology.
Hannah Ottenbreit from Saskatoon Public Schools will mentor those interested in math and probability.
Frances Hilderman, the Director of Saskatchewan Environmental Services Group at HATCH, will be the mentor for the power stream.
Lastly, Breanna Tait, the Visitor Services Coordinator at Wanuskewin, will guide participants interested in anthropology and archaeology.
Schedule of Sessions
The event schedule for the day is as follows: at 9:30 am, the conference will kick off.
Laura will then give a welcome and introduction at 9:35 am.
Minister Laura Ross will also welcome the attendees at 9:45 am, followed by a welcome from Sandy Baumgartner, the CEO of the Saskatchewan Science Centre, at 9:50 am.
The keynote presentation will begin at 10:00 am, featuring Katrina German, the CEO of Ethical Digital, who will discuss the importance of prioritizing mental wellness in an online age.
Afterward, there will be breakout sessions at 11:00 am, followed by a lunch break at 12:00 pm.
The event will resume at 1:00 pm with a welcome back from Laura, followed by a health break at 1:05 pm.
More breakout sessions will take place at 1:15 pm, and the conference will conclude with closing ceremonies at 3:00 pm.
Registration
Interested? Use this link to register.
