Inverness event sees 100 girls and women come together to explore scientific career possibilities in the Highlands
One hundred girls and women have come together in Inverness to explore scientific career possibilities in the Highlands.
The Girls Do Science event from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) returned to the capital of the Highlands, inspiring young women to think about a future in science.
Participants from S1 to S6 were welcomed to take part in interactive workshops, talks and networking sessions.
The free full day event featured sessions from My World of Work Live, Scottish Association for Marine Science and Science Skills Academy and took place at WASPS Inverness Creative Academy.
The packed day was timed to coincide with the UN’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science, and the activities were designed around offering the girls a chance to explore careers and creativity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) industries.
This event offered attendees a unique chance to learn from female role models who are paving the way in these dynamic industries.
Award-winning climate activist, environmental scientist, and ethical influencer, Laura Young, also known as ‘Less Waste Laura’, led several of the talks and sessions across the day and said: "I was delighted to be part of Girls do Science - an event that not only sparks curiosity but also empowers young women to see themselves in STEM. Science and technology shape our world, and it’s so important that girls know they belong in these fields.
“Meeting inspiring role models, getting hands-on experience, and exploring the endless possibilities of STEM can be truly life changing. It was great to share my passion for environmental science and science communication, to help encourage the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators!"
Event highlights included engaging activities for S1 to S3 students featuring talks from female speakers working in STEM and interactive workshops.
These included sessions in robotics, DNA extraction, and creating green hydrogen which offered the young people unique hands-on learning experiences.
An informal networking session for S4 to S6 students took place in the afternoon, giving the students the opportunity to meet inspiring women working in STEM fields, ask questions, and build valuable connections.
Also leading immersive sessions was Fionnadh Carroll, STEM engagement adviser with SDS.
Fionnadh delivered a new session teaching pupils how hydrogen is created.
Fionnadh said: “There are so many exciting opportunities for young people to get involved in the renewables energy sector right here in the Highlands. We have the opportunity to be at the forefront of transforming the way the rest of the world is powered, and we wanted this event to show young women they can be part of this revolution.
“This new session was made possible thanks to Cromarty Free Port who has partnered with SDS to run this innovative hydrogen activity.”
