Help fund STEM Theses for Girls in the Philippines!

Hello Science Fans!

I'm Chona Camille Abeledo, the proud founder and host of SHE-ensya, a science communication channel based in the Philippines. Our mission is simple: to ignite the passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among young women.

As a Biology educator residing in Manila, I'm deeply aware of the stark reality our country faces. With only 130 scientists and engineers per million people, we're lagging behind the necessary workforce needed for true industrialization, which requires at least 380 research scientists and engineers per million. This deficit not only stifles our progress but also underscores the critical need to bolster STEM participation, particularly among women.

Currently, only 30% of STEM professionals are female. Yet, we know that greater gender diversity breeds greater innovation. However, many budding STEM enthusiasts, especially those in senior high school and college, face a significant hurdle: funding for their thesis projects. This financial gap often forces them to abandon their STEM aspirations for other pursuits.

Based on surveys among senior high school and college faculty, the average cost of a basic STEM thesis ranges from Php 55,000-100,000 (~$1,000-2,000 USD). Our goal is clear: to raise funds to support at least one young woman passionate about STEM for the Academic Year 2024-2025. Any surplus will be allocated to other deserving young girls in the STEM arena.

The academic year in the Philippines commences from June to August of 2024. Thus, we aim to secure the necessary funds by June to ensure timely application openings for the new school year.

The $1,000 USD raised will be awarded in its entirety to the successful applicant for the thesis grant. Applications will be solicited through the SHE-ensya channel, and candidates will be evaluated based on the quality of their proposed thesis, their ability to articulate scientific concepts effectively, and endorsements from educators, family members, and community leaders. Any excess funds will be distributed to other applicants based on the evaluation of their submissions.

Join us in empowering the next generation of female scientists and engineers. Together, let's pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in STEM.

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