The meeting started strong with the definition of what is a role model in STAR Girls. The findings represented principles of intersectionality, social justice and social sustainability:
“In STAR Girls, a role model is a woman working in the clean and green energy related sectors who not only excels professionally but also embodies resilience, leadership and advocacy for gender equality. These role models come from diverse backgrounds, including engineers, entrepreneurs, teachers, researchers and technicians, and that actively challenge gender misrepresentation and inequalities within their fields. (…). Their varied ages, technical expertise, socio-economic status, disabilities and geographic origins ensure that they reflect a wide spectrum of experiences, making them relatable and inspiring to young girls and women considering STEM and sustainability-related careers.”
For what constitutes a role model to team members of one of our partners, check our latest post on LinkedIn and Instagram.
As for attractive opportunities to get the attention of potential role models, the consortium brainstormed about mentorship training (from one of our partners with extense expertise on the topic, Firda), enhanced visibility and engagement, collaboration opportunities and enlargement of network and participation in the project’s final conference.
The discussion continued fruitful. This time around mentoring dynamics. The conclusion was straightforward: there should be no hierarchy – learning goes both ways -, the matchmaking should go beyond professional backgrounds – to accommodate personal interests, beliefs and values -, and that setting a relationship first is the gateway for a successful mentoring.
The discussion ended with a workshop on how STAR Girls should communicate their mission and reach impact through communication and dissemination efforts. Results were clear. STAR Girls should position their policy intervention – with mentorship at its core – as a transformative and sustainable approach to be integrated into, both, pedagogical practices and the broader VET culture and justification – to inspire young women in pursuing more technical fields, including CRES.
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Connect, Learn and Lead: Advancing Inclusive Practices in the Clean and Renewable Energy Sector
This is what STAR Girls is all about.