HERoSTEM
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and LEADERSHIP
At the beginning of 2024 we launched the HERoSTEM programme, through which we support the personal and professional development of female students and alumni at the African Science Academy (ASA) in Ghana. In collaboration with Xcalibur Smart Mapping (XSM), we aim to ensure that programme participants, who stand out in the academic world in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) related areas, also develop the skills necessary for their personal and professional growth in their respective fields of study.
Our first initiative to achieve this is a volunteer programme. Through this programme, 29 employees from different XSM business units are participating. Contributing their knowledge and work expertise to provide these students with the necessary tools to face their professional challenges and advance in the workplace from a unique perspective. This initiative not only reinforces Xcalibur’s commitment to gender equality, but also empowers future female STEM leaders in Africa, creating a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.
Why go for STEM in Africa?
Even though 40% of the world’s most skilled professions are held by women, their representation in scientific fields remains significantly low. According to UNESCO data, only 30% of STEM professionals in Africa are women. The International Telecommunications Union also recognises the gender gap in the STEM industry leadership. Women feel under-represented among science and technology policy leaders.
It is therefore essential to highlight the work of women leaders in this field and to encourage future women to realise their potential. Through our work, we provide them with the personal and professional tools they need to feel confident and empowered to break this tendency.
Together, we will advance gender equality in STEM fields, inspiring a new generation of female scientist, technologist, engineers, and mathematicians.
HERoes of Mentoring and Social Progress
Thanks to the participation of our XSM expert volunteers, in 4 months we have conducted 10 guest speaker sessions with various experts on subjects such as sustainability, geophysics, information systems and remote control, financial reporting, legal department and techniques for mapping the earth’s surface.
The volunteer programme focuses on the development of the participants through activities and one-to-one mentoring sessions. In these sessions, 19 mentors provide tools for participants to develop their personal and professional skills. Looking ahead to October, we are preparing a second phase that will include new mentors and will welcome more mentees, thus expanding the learning and growth opportunities for all of them.
Aligning with the 2030 Goals
At our foundation, we align our activities with several specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to maximise our impact and contribute to a better future. In order not to lose sight of our overall mission, the main SDG that we address in all our programmes is SDG 4: Quality Education. The specific SDGs of the HERoSTEM programme are the following:
5.5 Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decisionmaking in political, economic and public life.
10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
17.9 Increase international support to carry out effective and targeted capacity-building activities in developing countries in order to support national plans for the implementation of all Sustainable Development Goals, including through North-South, South-South, and triangular cooperation.
Who makes HERoSTEM possible?
Thanks to XSM’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) department, we have coordinated our volunteers so that the 10 experts who deliver training sessions and the 19 mentors who accompany the students selected for the programme during the year 2024 can develop their professionalism and learn alongside the participants.
African Gifted Foundation (AGF) is an organisation dedicated to providing access to STEM education to talented young women in Africa, with the aim of empowering the development of African women in these fields. Therefore, in this programme, AGF is responsible for defining the areas of collaboration and informing the training curriculum and schedule of activities, as well as ensuring that all participants have equal opportunities within the programme. As Yasameen Al-Jboury, Executive Director of AGF, explains, ‘The HERoSTEM initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to unlock the potential of Africa’s young women, empowering them to become leaders who will shape the future of STEM in the continent. Together, we will advance gender equality in STEM fields, inspiring a new generation of female scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians’.
Committed to Change
Through this programme, we continue our line of gender programmes with which we are committed to making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of future STEM leaders in Africa. Our aim is to improve mental health and well-being, promote gender equality, and provide tools that protect and support social change. We believe that all people deserve the opportunity to develop their full potential, and we are dedicated to making this vision a reality.
Join us in this mission and be part of the change we want to see in the world. Together, we can build a better future for the next generations.
