AMS Cherish: Empowering Women and Girls Through Technology

Introduction

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, the empowerment of women and girls through access to technology is paramount to fostering gender equality and societal progress. The Association for Middle East Women Advancement of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (AMS) recognizes this imperative and has made it a core pillar of its mission. This article will delve into the significance of AMS Cherish, an initiative dedicated to empowering women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The Importance of STEM for Women and Girls

STEM fields are the driving force behind innovation and economic growth. However, women and girls continue to be underrepresented in these fields. According to UNESCO, women make up only 22% of STEM researchers worldwide. This disparity is not only a matter of equity but also a significant loss of potential talent and expertise.

Empowering women and girls in STEM has numerous benefits, including:

• Increased economic opportunities: STEM occupations offer high-paying salaries and career advancement prospects.
• Enhanced problem-solving and innovation: STEM education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in all aspects of life.
• Advancement of society: The participation of women and girls in STEM fields contributes to the development of innovative solutions to challenges facing our world, such as climate change and disease eradication.

AMS Cherish: Empowering Future Leaders

AMS Cherish is a multifaceted initiative aimed at empowering women and girls in STEM by providing them with:

• Mentorship and networking opportunities: AMS Cherish connects women and girls with experienced professionals in STEM fields, fostering mentorship relationships and creating a supportive network.
• Educational programs: AMS Cherish offers scholarships, workshops, and training programs to support women and girls in their STEM education journey.
• Advocacy and awareness: AMS Cherish advocates for policies and initiatives that promote gender equality in STEM and raises awareness about the importance of women's participation in these fields.

The Impact of AMS Cherish

Since its inception, AMS Cherish has impacted the lives of numerous women and girls:

• Over 5,000 women and girls have participated in AMS Cherish programs.
• 80% of participants have reported increased confidence in their STEM abilities.
• 60% of participants have pursued further education in STEM fields.

Success Stories

Story 1:

• Noor, a young girl from Jordan, was inspired by an AMS Cherish mentorship program to pursue a career in engineering. She is now a successful engineer at a multinational technology company.

Lesson learned: Mentorship can ignite passion and provide guidance for aspiring STEM professionals.

Story 2:

• Aisha, a woman from Saudi Arabia, received an AMS Cherish scholarship to pursue a master's degree in computer science. She now leads a research team at a leading university in the region.

Lesson learned: Scholarships and financial support can empower women to overcome barriers and achieve their STEM aspirations.

Story 3:

• Fatima, a high school student from Egypt, participated in an AMS Cherish robotics workshop. She later founded a robotics club at her school, inspiring other girls to pursue STEM.

Lesson learned: Educational programs and hands-on experiences can spark interest and cultivate STEM skills in young girls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While initiatives like AMS Cherish are vital, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can undermine their effectiveness:

• Lack of inclusivity: Programs should be designed to be inclusive of women from all backgrounds, including marginalized communities.
• Stereotyping: It is crucial to challenge stereotypes and create environments where women feel valued and respected in STEM fields.
• Insufficient funding: Sustainable funding is essential to ensure the long-term impact of STEM empowerment initiatives.

Call to Action

Empowering women and girls in STEM requires a collective effort. Governments, corporations, educators, and individuals must work together to create an environment that supports and encourages their participation. AMS Cherish serves as a model for this collaboration, but more initiatives and resources are needed to reach the full potential of women and girls in STEM.

Additional Resources

• UNESCO: Science Report: Towards 2030
• World Economic Forum: The Future of Jobs
• AMS Cherish: Empowering Women and Girls in STEM

Tables

Table 1: Barriers to Women's Participation in STEM

Table 2: Benefits of Women's Participation in STEM

Table 3: AMS Cherish Programs