Women in STEM: Future Careers, 21st Century Skills and Role Models

Females are drastically underrepresented in STEM subjects and jobs across the planet.

On the eve of Science Week 2019, we teamed up with Zoos Victoria to educate and inspire Year 7–10 students by connecting them with real-world STEM mentors and case studies.

This conference was designed for secondary schools and hosted by Zoos Victoria and girledworld at Melbourne Zoo.

Through hands-on activities, guest speakers and reflection, this real-world learning experience explored:

  • Female STEM mentors and role models

  • Real-world case studies of women in STEM

  • The role of STEM in the future of work

  • How STEM subjects and courses can lead to future STEM education and careers

  • How personal strengths, skills and experience can be translated to STEM study and careers

Students left this day of immersive learning feeling inspired, educated and excited through interacting with relatable, real-world STEM mentors and developed their understandings, skills and interests to explore their place in STEM.


This program linkED to THE Victorian Curriculum Level 7–10

  • Design and Technologies – Technologies and Society

  • Science – Science as a Human Endeavour

  • Personal and Social Capability Content Descriptions – Development of Resilience, Collaboration

  • Critical and Creative Thinking – Questions and Possibilities

  • Sustainability