In recent years, Europe has made commendable progress in increasing the representation of women in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). While this progress is encouraging, significant challenges remain, especially in achieving gender balance in specific disciplines and leadership roles. We took a closer look at the current state and the steps needed to foster a more inclusive future. Women’s representation in leadership roles remains disproportionately low, with only 12.4% of C-suite positions in STEAM industries occupied by women.
Under the context of the European Year of Digital Citizenship (DCEY25), GEYC celebrated International Day of Women through multiple interactive events and digital initiatives in the community.
Humans of GEYC - Women in STEAM, 04.03.2025
We kicked off the celebration with an engaging online LIVE event, where a panel of inspiring women from the GEYC community who have achieved success in STEAM fields were able to share their insights with the rest of the community. During this insightful session, we explored the most valuable resources that have shaped their careers, we talked about the challenges they’ve overcome, and shared practical advice for young people embarking on their own careers. Our distinguished guests brought diverse expertise from across the STEAM spectrum, including technology, medicine, and more, offering invaluable perspectives for the next generation of professionals.
Activism Collectors Women in STEAM Edition, 21.02.2025
This podcast is all about showcasing the incredible journeys of women in the world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths). Each episode attempts to shine a spotlight on amazing changemakers, sharing their stories, challenges, and triumphs, offering valuable insights into the paths they’ve carved for themselves. Whether you’re just starting your journey in STEAM or you’re looking for inspiration to keep pushing boundaries, these conversations are packed with lessons to learn from. We believe in the power of visibility – when women lead, they inspire entire generations to follow. This is why it’s the time to celebrate and amplify their voices.
In this series we invited 7 guests and explored many industries such as art, NGOs, aviation, medicine, technology and math. Our guest list included Livia Florea, Ana Stamatescu, Madalina Lipan, Georgescu Mihaela, Ana Spataru, Georgiana Popovici, as well as Cristina Danovschi.
DigIT at UiPath, 12.03.2025
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we have organized a guided visit to UiPath with young people from Campina who wanted to find out more about STEAM careers. Following the impact of the Activism Collectors: Women in STEAM Edition podcast series powered by SENSE. , we wanted to share with young people from Campina the impact women have in fields related to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Maths. 👩💻
In this event, 25 young people from Campina and UiPath employees got to know each other through a digital Human Bingo. They attended a guided tour of the UiPath facilities and learned from 11 female STEAM professionals, including a panel of 6 programmers, managers and NGO leaders (Andreea Nicoleta Bichel-Țene - Senior Program Manager Enterprise Success, Ioana Crusoveanu - Talent Acquisition Partner, Iulia Istrate - Senior Director Product Management, Alexandra Olteanu - Principal Software Engineering Manager, Alina Capota - Senior Manager Technology Services, Teodora Baciu - Product Manager, Raluca Laic - Senior Product Manager, Denisa Colțea - Communication Manager, Sevastiana Vasilisca - Employee Experience Associate, Viorela Marcu - Director, Employee Experience, @cristina.danovschi - Senior Learning Content Developer, Miruna Mutu - Senior Talent Acquisition Partner)
This event has been a part of the identifying early adopters efforts ran in the frame of SENSE. , our Horizon Europe project that integrates arts and sensory approaches into STEAM education, fostering a participatory approach to learning. Participants also gave feedback on methods and website.
Testimonials
For the young people, especially the girls from Campina, it has been a deeply influencial experience. Their feedback reflects the impact such a context can have on their lives and their career paths. Here are some of the feedbacks we received from them:
“felt a sense of connection with all the wonderful ladies present” (Alexia, 17)
The thing that stuck out to me the most though was the final panel when the topic of women not being taken seriously in leadership positions was brought up. I was relieved to find out it's not such an issue in Romania, but the experience shared about being perceived as " aggressive" for simply setting a goal and chasing after it assertively was one that struck a chord with me. I deeply related to that and I felt a sense of connection with all the wonderful ladies present there, despite them virtually being strangers.
“motivates me to learn more” (Ioana,18)
I really enjoyed the presentation from UiPath because it was clear, well-structured, and very informative. I believe the information I received will be very useful for me in the future, especially if I work with technologies. UiPath offers excellent opportunities to improve efficiency and save time, which motivates me to learn more.The place also was so beautiful and made me to really think about it.People there were so kind and friendly.Overall, it was a valuable experience that will help me in my professional development.
“you shouldn’t let others tell you what you can or cannot do” (Ioana, 18)
Honestly, I really enjoyed today’s trip. I didn’t expect to like it that much, but it feels great to get out of the house sometimes and see new places, like UiPath. I don’t want to work in tech in the future, but hearing about all these people’s life experiences, I learned that no matter what Path you choose (haha get it), it’s important to follow your heart and that you shouldn’t let others tell you what you can or cannot do for your future.
“valuable advice” (Delia, 17)
The IT trip was a fascinating experience, especially the friends and very nice hosts. Everyone shared with us the challenges and satisfactions of their job, giving us valuable advice. The atmosphere in the offices was friendly and relaxed, and the collaboration between the teams was essential for the success of the projects. This visit determined for me how important it is to work in a pleasant and motivating environment
“gave me an idea of what I could do in the future” (Emilia,17)
I really enjoyed today's activity and it gave me an idea of what I could do in the future, plus I want to do an internship at this company in the future.
“the environment was inspiring” (Mara, 17)
Today at UiPath, I had a great experience exploring the office and enjoying a walk around the premises. The environment was inspiring, and I appreciated the welcoming atmosphere. I also met some really nice and friendly people, which made the experience even better.
“inspiring to see how much they enjoyed what they were doing” (Antonia, 17)
I had a great experience at UiPath. The atmosphere was incredibly positive, and it was evident that the employees were not only passionate about their work but also genuinely happy to be there. It was inspiring to see how much they enjoyed what they were doing, which created a vibrant and motivating environment. The company culture emphasized collaboration and support, making it a place where people truly thrive. It was refreshing to be in such an environment where work didn’t feel like a chore, but rather something people were excited to contribute to.
“exceeded expectations” (Paula,17)
It was a special experience, a very interesting activity that exceeded expectations and which I am sure will help us in the future no matter what path we choose. Thank you for everything!🩷🩷🩷🫶🏼
“I thought that I could work there” (Daria, 17)
I found it a very interesting activity that exceeded my expectations and dismantled all the myths and preconceptions I knew about corporations and working in IT and there were really a few seconds when I thought that I could work there, even though I had already chosen what I wanted. The presenters of the activity were very nice and convincing and overall the experience was wonderful.
About SENSE. |
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This initiative is part of the Sense.steam project. SENSE integrates arts and
sensory approaches into STEAM education, fostering a participatory
approach to learning.
The
SENSE Project is
a three-year Horizon Europe initiative, launched in September 2022, aimed at
redefining STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)
education across Europe. By integrating artistic practices and emphasizing
sensory, participatory approaches, SENSE seeks to make science education more
inclusive and engaging. The project is a collaborative effort involving 17
partner organizations from 14 European countries, including public, private,
and non-profit sectors. Together, they work towards developing the SENSE.STEAM
educational model and pedagogy, establishing practical implementation
strategies, and transforming current educational practices to promote social
inclusion and spatial design.
A key component of SENSE is the establishment of 13 'STEAM Labs' across
Europe, serving as specialized learning environments where students,
educators, and stakeholders can co-create and test innovative STEAM
activities. These labs aim to bridge the gap between theoretical models and
practical application, fostering environments that encourage creativity,
critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The insights and outcomes from
these labs will contribute to the development of the 'New European Roadmap to
STEAM Education,' a comprehensive guide designed to support educators and
learners in various settings, including classrooms, museums, and informal
learning spaces. This roadmap will provide a portfolio of STEAM activities,
implementation strategies, and evidence-based information on the added value
of STEAM education, ensuring that the approach is meaningful and applicable to
a variety of stakeholders.