A Perth-based, volunteer charity which aims to create gender equity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields has received a Helping &nds grant from P&N Bank.
The Innovators’ Tea Party aim to promote STEM-focused careers by linking their network of over 500 successful female scientists, engineers and innovators with high school students.
They do this through speed-networking events involving one-on-one mentorship with female STEM professionals and career information nights for students, parents and teachers aimed at breaking down stereotypes, as well as showcasing the incredible breadth of STEM careers available in Western Australia.
The grant will help the group continue to run their events at no cost for attendees, giving opportunities to more WA students to seek STEM career information and advice from the women in STEM network. This funding will also help them to invest resources into new program development.
The Innovators’ Tea Party Founder and President Evelyn Chuk said the grant would enable the not-for-profit group to continue to run this vital program free of charge.
“Through The Innovators’ Tea Party programs, we introduce women working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths to high school students in order to challenge gender stereotypes and highlight the vast array opportunities a STEM career can provide” Evelyn said.
“The Helping &nds grant will assist with the running of a series of networking events in August and September, which will see 100 women in STEM and 100 high school students come together for one-on-one conversations about STEM-based careers.
“For the students, this provides an incredible opportunity to meet STEM professionals and observe positive female role models in STEM fields, highlighting the diversity and opportunities available within these careers paths.
“We really appreciate P&N’s support.”
P&N Bank Area Manager Renee Lang said the Helping &nds program provided much-needed funding to community organisations that are driving change and innovation.
“Helping &nds recognises and supports the work that deserving not-for-profit organisations, such as The Innovators’ Tea Party, are doing to make a positive difference to West Aussies,” Renee said.
“We’re always blown away with the variety of worthy groups that are nominated by our customers – we really believe in the power of the collective.”
P&N Bank customers can nominate local community organisations for a Helping &nds grant at any time during the year – they then have their say on which groups are supported by casting a vote for one group in each funding round.
For more information on The Innovators’ Tea Party website or Facebook page.