09/29/2026
What an amazing session today at the Waterloo Public Library—-“Iron-Willed: Women shaping the future of STEM" hosted by the City of Waterloo Museum and Waterloo Public Library.
Three inspiring Women leaders advocating for science, engineering, and math, the S, E, & M of STEM, came together to share their journey and offer their own unique perspectives on what girls should focus on in school and what they should avoid along the way.
Mesmerized by the conversations of Dr. Xu Wang, Mary Dagg, and Dr. Mary Wells, I’m still thinking about some of the most important takeaways.
The conversations touched on curiosity, resilience, believing in themselves, and never doubting or underestimating their own abilities.
The leaders also spoke to parents and educators about offering an environment that would encourage girls to explore STEM, develop confidence in studying and pursuing any STEM fields, and challenging and addressing the structural barriers that discourage girls from pursuing STEM or redirect to perceived easier paths.
My favourites were:
“Life is hard— so take the hard courses”
and
“Learning requires struggle”.
All the three Women leaders emphasized on the importance of trusting their abilities, being prepared to work hard, and not automatically choosing the easier courses/ paths.
About Artificial Intelligence (AI)—they advised students to focus on achieving their foundational knowledge before diving into AI and not to “cognitively surrender” to it.
And finally, an important message for girls considering STEM: make sure to take Physics and Math in high school to open their doors to Engineering and Math programs and along the way increase female representation in these programs.
So thankful to the incredible leaders for sharing their journey and wisdom.
As I reflect on their journeys— I see the important role teachers and mums played in offering resources and a supportive environment to their girls, giving them a belief and confidence that they are capable of becoming anything they dream to be.
And, although a new perspective for me, I now see how important it is to teach our girls to work hard, challenge themselves, and be okay with handling discomfort and struggles that come along with learning.
Waterloo Region District School Board
Waterloo Region Small Business Centre
Kitchener Public Library
Waterloo Public Library
Ontario Ministry of Education
Women and Gender Equality Canada
The Women In STEM Network
City of Waterloo Museum
📢 Save the date!
Join us and the Waterloo Public Library for an inspiring panel discussion: Iron Willed: Shaping the Future of STEM.
Come hear from trailblazing local leaders as they share personal journeys, navigate systemic challenges, and offer advice for the next generation of innovators.
📅 When: Monday, September 28 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Where: John M. Harper Branch
💰 Admission: Free!
Whether you are a student, a professional, or an ally, help us forge a more inclusive future. See you there!
