Embedded Files
WLF is a nonprofit that offers STEM related educational programs for young women.
We believe that innovation and discovery are fed by diversity. But currently, STEM fields are stifled by the underrepresentation of women. Due to stereotypes and biases at home, school, and in everyday life, girls around the world are discouraged from pursuing these fields. If this is allowed to persist, we as a society will continue to miss out on many of the advances these women could have made. We believe this must be addressed, not only as a matter of fairness and equality, but also as a matter of common sense: potential should not be wasted.
In the International Mathematics Olympiads, 88% of the American teams since 1974 were entirely male. Since Brazil started participating in 1979, only 10 of the 249 Brazilian participants were women.
Our programs seek to show that STEM fields can be accessible to all.
Our calculus course, in particular, was designed to help students learn what is often perceived as a difficult subject in a fun and quick one week course. Thus, we not only give them a head start if they choose to pursue a career in STEM, but also help them to recognize their own talents which are so often overlooked by those around them.
In 2018, Brazil's aerospace institute (ITA) accepted only 5 women and 105 men.
We hope to resume in person workshops in July 2021. In the meantime, we are gearing up for online events.
Want to help?
Want to help?
If you like the initiative, and want to see more programs like this one, please contribute. Check out our donations page to learn more.
Report abuse