A new RACI x Rebel Girls partnership is helping show young people that STEM is for everyone.
By showcasing stories of women breaking barriers and thriving in STEM, the project helps young people imagine themselves in those same spaces. It spotlights notable women with disabilities in STEM, from Australia and around the world.
One of these notable women is Dr Cathy Foley, who found her own strategies for learning and communicating with dyslexia. She earned a PhD in physics and became Australia’s chief scientist. Another is Eleanor Beidatsch, who was born with spinal muscular atrophy, and is harnessing assistive technology to complete her master’s degree in palaeontology.
Tailored for young girls, these stories offer relatable role models to help foster a sense of belonging, confidence and ambition. A range of resources for young people, families, schools and libraries is now available, including:
- free ebook featuring inspiring stories of women with disabilities in STEM
- feature podcast episode focusing on blind astrophysicist, Wanda Diaz-Merced
- four downloadable activities
- classroom resources to spark discussion, creativity and curiosity.
This project is just one of the ways the Australian Government is supporting initiatives that break down persistent barriers to diversity in STEM education and careers.