Nigeria-based Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) organisation, Women in Technology in Nigeria (WITIN) Girls STEM Clubs and Outreaches, has been awarded the 2024 Inspiring Women in Science Outreach Award of Nature.
The Inspiring Women in Science awards celebrate and support the achievements of women in science, and all those who work to encourage girls and young women to engage with STEM subjects and stay in STEM careers around the world.
This recognition highlights WITIN’s efforts, as a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing women and girls in STEM, to address the underrepresentation of girls in STEM by providing solutions that foster a safe and supportive environment.
Martha Alade, WITIN’s founder and Executive Director, while accepting the award in London, said, “It is both humbling and affirming to receive this award.”
She said WITIN approach girls in underserved areas with the belief that access to knowledge is a fundamental right.
“At WITIN, we work tirelessly to inspire girls who would not otherwise have these opportunities, and we continue our efforts because the need is great,” Alade said.
The judges praised WITIN for its clear goals, aligned with its mission to increase female representation in STEM. They also commended the organisation’s focus on both girls and teachers, as well as its community engagement and teacher network.
According to Dr Magdalena Skipper, Nature’s Chief Editor, “Diversity of thought fuels innovation. When women and girls contribute their skills in research, we all benefit. It is crucial that women are equally represented in science, as it shapes the future.”
The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science, in partnership with The Estée Lauder Companies, celebrates those encouraging women and girls to pursue STEM careers.
The Scientific Achievement Award honours early-career women researchers who have made exceptional contributions despite personal or professional challenges.
Lisa Napolione, Senior Vice President of Global R&D at The Estée Lauder Companies, added, “We are thrilled to celebrate the seventh year of the Nature Awards. The calibre of applications each year is inspiring, knowing that these women are making a significant impact in research and STEM outreach. At ELC, we are committed to promoting gender equality in STEM and look forward to celebrating the continued success of the award winners.”
WITIN Advisory Board Chairman, Dr Markie Idowu, stated that the award is a global recognition of WITIN’s impact on the technology ecosystem over the past two decades. She emphasised the organisation’s commitment to advancing opportunities for women and girls in tech.
