As society desperately seeks gender inclusivity in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM,) I see a flaw in the way adults attempt to attract girls. In my community, the only STEAM activity is the highly competitive, male dominated VEX robotics. I believe that creative, collaborative opportunities are less intimidating and more interesting for the girls STEAM is still working hard to attract. Further, collaboration, not competition is the skill STEAM careers need in order to solve our biggest problems.
In grade ten I took initiative and used my young female perspective to develop Zenius Labs. My goal was to diversify STEAM access in the Comox Valley. I developed the concept, applied for PAC grants, recruited members, and coordinated with teachers/community members for space, equipment, and support. Our 80% female membership met twice a week to learn and collaborate on workshops and projects that focused on the strengths and interests of each member. From websites to electronics and 3D printing, members gained experience and confidence in their STEAM passions. We then partnered with the art gallery and elementary teachers to run our workshops for younger students, inspiring the 80% female attendees through role modelling.
The first challenge was losing my sponsor teacher to a health leave that left me without an official mentor. I was amazed at the other teachers and parents who offered support when I reached out to help, but without Roger it was up to me to keep people on track and set boundaries. I learned to recognize the difference between a good friend and the right person for a project. Lastly, I had to make peace with the fact that running a club takes a tremendous amount of time, and because we were all full-time students, Zenius Labs wouldn’t grow into everything I’d hoped it would in that first year.
Through these challenges, we accomplished some meaningful things. Firstly, we got more girls engaging in STEAM. Secondly, we demonstrated to young kids that STEAM is more than boring math. Finally, we proved that adults view on STEAM was incredibly limited and deserved to be cast in a more engaging light with its vast array of captivating topics. This year I am growing the workshop to tour six communities on Vancouver Island.
Zenius Labs was featured in a local magazine! You can read the PDF article here
