Empowering tomorrow's leaders today
About the Project
According World Economic Forum, women represent only 29.2% of all STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) workers globally, highlighting their alarmingly low presence in these fields. In South Africa, this disparity is even more pronounced, as women currently account for just 23% of STEM professionals and only 17% occupy leadership positions within these sectors.
Despite some progress toward increasing women's participation in science-related fields, a significant gender gap persists at all levels of STEM disciplines worldwide.
In South Africa, only 13% of graduates in STEM fields are women. This ongoing underrepresentation not only limits women's contributions to vital sectors but also hinders innovation and diversity within the workforce, both of which are critical for national and global progress.
The InnovateHER project, initiated by African Female Voices, is designed to empower young women in South Africa to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This initiative addresses the significant gender gap in these fields by providing Grade 12 female learners with a comprehensive guide that includes resources for effective exam preparation, university readiness, and career development.
The project aims to inspire and support students through various strategies, including school visits and interactive workshops. Sponsorship opportunities are available to corporations and organizations committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM. By partnering with InnovateHER, sponsors can help create a more equitable workforce while gaining visibility and engagement within the community.
What is offered in the guide
Exam Preparation
University Readiness
University Readiness
Get effective strategies for studying, stress management techniques, and essential life skills that will help you excel in assessment
University Readiness
University Readiness
University Readiness
Receive guidance on selecting STEM-related courses, understanding qualifications, and navigating the university application process, including tips on accessing bursaries and financial aid.
Career Outlook
University Readiness
Career Outlook
Explore insights into STEM career opportunities, and the importance of soft skills, and discover mentorship and networking resources to assist in your transition from education to the workforce.
Our Goal, Objectives, and deliverables
The InnovateHER project aims to empower young women in South Africa to engage in and excel within STEM fields by providing resources, support, and guidance tailored to their academic and career development needs.
Objectives:
- Enhance Academic Readiness: Provide students with effective exam preparation strategies, study skills, and stress management techniques to improve performance in academic assessments.
- Facilitate University Preparation: Offer guidance on selecting STEM courses, understanding qualification requirements, navigating the university application process, and accessing bursaries and financial aid.
- Promote Career Development: Share insights into STEM career opportunities, emphasize the importance of soft skills, and provide resources for mentorship and networking to support students' transition from education to the workforce.
Deliverables:
- Comprehensive Guide: A user-friendly, 15-page printed and digital guide titled "InnovateHER," containing sections on effective exam preparation, university readiness, and career outlook in STEM. The guide will be visually appealing and accessible to the target audience.
- Digital PDF Version: An easily downloadable PDF version of the InnovateHER guide available on educational platforms and shared via social media, ensuring broad access for female students across South Africa.
- Feedback Report: A compiled report summarizing feedback and evaluations from students and educators post-distribution of the guide, including insights on the guide's effectiveness, areas for improvement, and recommendations for future initiatives.
Our Distribution Plan
How will this guide reach our next generation of STEM leaders?
The InnovateHER project aims to empower Grade 12 female learners in South Africa by providing them with essential resources for pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). As part of this initiative, the InnovateHER guide will be distributed strategically to female students enrolled in 'science stream' subjects in the southwestern and northwestern regions of the Tshwane District.
Target Schools for Distribution
To ensure effective reach and impact, the guide will be distributed to select high schools in the Tshwane District, including:
- Ntsako Secondary High School
- Botse Botse Secondary School
- Steve Tshwere Secondary School
- Seshegong Secondary School
By forming partnerships with these local educational institutions, the InnovateHER program seeks to establish a direct connection with its target audience. The program recognizes that these students represent a significant demographic aspiring to enter STEM fields, and it aims to provide them with the guidance needed to navigate their academic and career choices effectively.
Timing and Method of Distribution
The physical booklets will be distributed at the beginning of Term 1. This timing is critical as it coincides with students' exam preparations, ensuring that the guide can immediately assist them in their studies. To further enhance the program's effectiveness, information sessions will be conducted at the participating schools. These sessions will introduce the InnovateHER guide, outline its benefits, and motivate students to explore STEM careers.
A Holistic Approach to Content Development
The content of the InnovateHER guide has been meticulously developed by a collaborative team of educators, STEM professionals, and counselors. It covers various topics essential for academic success, including effective exam preparation strategies, university readiness, and career development tailored specifically for female STEM students.
In addition to being informative, the guide is designed to be visually appealing and user-friendly. It will be available in both printed and digital formats, incorporating infographics, checklists, and practical tips to ensure comprehensibility and engagement.
Broader Access and Feedback Mechanism
To maximize accessibility, the InnovateHER guide will not only be available in the targeted schools but will also be provided in school libraries and as a downloadable PDF on relevant educational platforms. This approach ensures that all interested female students in the area can benefit from its resources, even if they are not directly involved in participating schools.
A feedback form will accompany the guide, allowing users to share their insights and experiences after utilizing its resources. This feedback will be invaluable for informing future revisions of the guide, ensuring its ongoing relevance and effectiveness for future generations of female STEM leaders.
The InnovateHER initiative represents a proactive and committed effort to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields. By equipping female learners with the resources they need and fostering an encouraging environment, the project aims to inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through strategic partnerships, targeted distribution, and a focus on user feedback, the InnovateHER project is set to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young women across the Tshwane District..