As a non-profit initiative, the Girls in STEAM Academy aims to bridge the gender gap in STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics). Since 2021, Girls in STEAM Academy has successfully completed 12 BridgeSTEAM programs, with over 200 graduates. See what our graduates have to say about their experience here!  

The two-day interactive BridgeSTEAM program aims to empower participants on three levels: a) developing programming skills, b) learning about career opportunities in STEAM fields, and c) connecting with female role models in STEAM in Cyprus. The educational program also includes a Career Counseling Workshop on STEAM career options with a certified instructor, a workshop on healthy relationships and self-confidence aligned with Goal #5 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), and a micro:bit workshop by Youth Makerspace Larnaka.  

Applications for the program are open, and you can apply here. More information is available on the program’s website. Applications for the Larnaca program will remain open until November 25, 2024.  

“It was fascinating to learn new things about programming and explore various career paths I could follow!” (2024 program participant). “I really enjoyed creating our own website!” (2024 program participant).  

Girls in STEAM Academy is an initiative of the Be an Ally Foundation, with key sponsors for this year’s programs including PwC Cyprus, Bank of Cyprus, Women in Tech Cyprus, CECG, DoValue, the Center for Social Innovation – CSI Cyprus, and RESET. Partners include Youth Makerspace Larnaka and the Cyprus Youth Board – ONEK. The initiative is coordinated by Panayiota Polykarpou and Anastasia Liopetriti.

Despite outperforming boys in digital literacy, only one in five specialists in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and one in three STEM graduates are women. The dropout rate among women in digital careers is higher than that of men. This imbalance is primarily due to gender role stereotypes, which discourage girls from fully realizing their potential. The “Girls in STEAM Academy” program is designed to break these barriers and inspire young women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.  

Through our programs, participants have the chance to join the Alumni Network, unlocking numerous innovative and exciting opportunities both in Cyprus and abroad. Past program graduates have participated in the “TechGirls” program in the United States, served as hosts on the Girls in STEAM Academy podcast “SheSpeaks,” attended educational programs, and engaged in job shadowing at various companies in Cyprus.

Website: https://steamacademycy.org/  

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/steamacademycy  

Instagram: @steamacademycy

TikTok: @steamacademycy

LinkedIn: Girls in STEAM Academy 

YouTube: Girls in STEAM Academy

Email: [email protected]