An insight day into astronomy and STEM opens windows and thoughts for the future of women in STEM within the north east.

With international women's day on the eighth of this month the celebration and encouragement of women's achievements and actions is as relevant as ever. The celebration of women in STEM is especially relevant with female and non-binary graduates making up only 27% of graduates in 2022, which shows a change in the gender equality needs to be made.

On the 22nd of March a cohort of female students gathered at Durham university for a day of astronomy and physics. The day included lectures, workshops, lessons and advice.  

From rocket scientists to nuclear physicists, inspirational women telling their stories and journeys gave way to a day of questions and knowledge. Workshops from virtual reality to universe creations gave lessons on stars, dark matter and gravity in relation to the universe.

As well as this talks of overcoming stigma and challenges as a woman in STEM was made aware of, with advice of not letting any factor hold anyone back from achieving their dreams.

Reflecting on the growing world of opportunity for women, it is as important as ever to understand the fight for equality and respect is not done and days like this allow us to understand the disparity and challenges in industries, which factors such as gender create for many.

From physics to engineering to computer science, STEM is a future full of possibility and opportunity for women in our society and world, no matter what anyone tells you.