Doha Women Forum hosted an event titled, ‘Shaping Tomorrow: STEMpowered Women’, at the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), in celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.The event gathered influential female leaders in STEM to inspire, mentor, and empower the next generation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, a statement said.The event featured a panel discussion with leading women in STEM from academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. The discussion highlighted their journeys, the challenges they have overcome, and the critical role of mentorship in shaping future female leaders in STEM.The event was opened by Dr Rosie Bateson, dean, College of General Education, UDST, who said: "Empowering women in STEM is not just about representation — it is a recognition of their ability to excel in STEM disciplines and to unlock the full potential of our society. UDST is dedicated to equipping young women with the knowledge and skills to innovate and to be role models in the fields of science and technology.”In his keynote address, Spanish ambassador Javier Carbajosa Sanchez, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in STEM and the role of women in driving global innovation."Women in STEM are shaping the future, breaking barriers, and leading industries worldwide. Events like this are essential to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking ecosystem where women can thrive,” he added."The presence of accomplished women in STEM today is more than just inspiring — it’s a roadmap for the young women of tomorrow," said Doha Women Forum founder Conchita Ponce."By sharing their journeys, these role models are proving that STEM is a space where women belong, lead, and innovate," she added.The panellists were Dr Dhabia al-Mohannadi (assistant professor, Hamad Bin Khalifa University), Narjiss Sallah (AI consultant at Primary Health Care Corporation), Fatima Sultan al-Kuwari (Group chief HR & sustainability officer, Ooredoo Group), Ashley Brantley (CEO, Girls in Aviation).The event recognised outstanding contributions in various categories: Research and Innovation - Dr Dhabia al-Mohannadi; Community Impact and Advocacy - engineer Abeer Abu Helaiqa (founder and vice chairperson, Qatar Women Engineers Association); Sustainability and Environmental Impact - Dr Deema Almasri (environmental scientist); Technology & Innovation - Rhana Kurdi (CEO and founder, Skydrops Water Schools Exhibition).Exhibitors from different schools participated in the STEM Exhibition, with The Next Generation School receiving the Excellence in STEM Showcase Award worth QR3,000 and a certificate, the statement added.
March 04, 2025 | 11:25 PM