A notable gender disparity exists in faculties of science and engineering across Canada, with men typically dominating these fields. However, it is not due to a lack of interest or capability among women. Many women face obstacles on their journey to becoming faculty members in STEM fields. Research shows that gender bias is prevalent within STEM fields, which can lead to a decreased sense of belonging and consequently, a reduced interest in pursuing careers in STEM.
Inspired by her peers in the Women in Mathematics Club at uOttawa, PhD graduate Jane Shaw MacDonald recognized the importance of supporting underrepresented communities and creating inclusive spaces in academia, and decided to take action. Drawing from her own experiences and expertise in mathematics, she founded “Math To Power Her Life”, an outreach program aimed at middle school girls interested in exploring mathematics as a potential career path.
The inspiration for “Math to Power Her Life” stemmed from Jane’s exploration of programs like the NSERC Chairs for Women in Science and Engineering (CWSE), which aim to increase the participation and retention of women in science and engineering and to provide role models for women considering careers in these fields. Chairholders have created projects and spaces like the Ontario Network of Women in Engineering (ONWiE), Go Code Girl and Go ENG Girl, designed to introduce girls and non-binary youth to careers in technology and engineering. However, Jane noticed a gap in promoting mathematics specifically. With guidance from mentors like Professor and former NSERC CWSE Catherine Mavriplis, and mathematician Dr. Maiko Serizawa, Jane set out to fill this void.
With the support of volunteers from the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, "Math To Power Her Life" offers engaging workshops where girls can explore mathematical concepts in a fun and accessible manner. Further, the program exposes participants to the vast scope and potential of mathematics, which may otherwise remain unseen until university-level studies. Operating within a women/girl-centered space, the initiative aims to demystify what a career in mathematics could look like and provide much-needed representation, empowering girls to envision themselves as mathematicians. Notably, the program is designed exclusively for girls and is women/girl-centered, with inclusivity extending to non-binary youth. By employing a vertical integration mentorship model, the program not only benefits its participants but also enriches the experience of its volunteers. Through this model, volunteers serve as peer mentors, inspiring the next generation of mathematicians while gaining invaluable mentorship experience themselves.
Thanks to the logistical support of the uOttawa Faculty of Engineering Outreach department and mentorship from Jane, a group of new and returning volunteers successfully ran the second and third editions of “Math To Power Her Life”. Jane's vision for the program extends beyond Ottawa, with the program running for the second time in Kelowna in May 2024, and with plans to continue developing and expanding its reach across Canada, ensuring that more girls have the opportunity to discover the power of math in shaping their future careers.
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