International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Sydney Burland

In 2016, the United Nations established the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on February 11th. This day aims to celebrate the integral role women & girls play in science and to promote full and equal access to science education/resources. Despite incredible progress regarding the inclusion of women in post-secondary STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) programs and careers, there is still a distinct gender gap globally. Women remain underrepresented in these disciplines in countries within each continent. February 11th is a day to acknowledge the remarkable achievements made by women in science and to recognize the disparities that persist today.

At Queen’s, we are incredibly fortunate to be part of a community with an abundance of

invaluable female leaders. I had the opportunity to hear from four of these women, who represent the myriad roles, possibilities, and accomplishments of all the women in science at our institution. Generously, these four women shared their personal stories about what, or who led them to pursue an education in STEM. Everyone takes a different path, inspired by different people. Sharing these stories is necessary in promoting the inclusion of more young girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Take a look at the testimonials below:

Science didn't come naturally to me; it wasn't something I knew I wanted to do from a young age, I didn't do well at it in high school, in fact I initially went to school to become a carpenter after high school. Instead, my interest in science really occurred as I started to become interested in environmental movements and climate change. This environmentally motivated interest opened up the world of science and all of its different applications, as well as gave me a sense of how research could be important and valuable for people. Since then, my interests have been rooted in the intersection of geoscience and community engaged research, where research can support community priorities.

- Madison Power

M.S.c in Physical Geography, Teaching Assistant

As a kid, I had always found computers fascinating. My dad worked in IT, and he seemed to always understand what went on inside them––a trait I both admired and envied. With his encouragement, I decided I wanted to study computer engineering in university. While fulfilling my prerequisites, I took precalculus in both grade 11 and 12, taught by the same teacher. Over the course of those two years, she gave me not only academic, but also life advice. On the day I graduated, she told me that I should take as many math courses as possible, because she knew I’d love them. Her words stuck with me as I navigated my general first year in engineering at Queen’s, particularly when choosing my discipline. I ended up enrolling in Applied Math and Computer Engineering which I genuinely enjoy, proving her right and making my younger self very proud.

- Yingel Feng

2nd Year Mathematics & Computer Engineering, inQUbate Venture Founder

My name is Brianna Murphy, and I’m a third-year Bachelor of Science student specializing in

Biology-Psychology. I've always been fascinated by science, constantly seeking to understand how and why things work in our bodies, society, and the world around us. Studying the physiological and cognitive functions of humans felt like the perfect way to answer those questions. Ultimately, my passion for science is driven by a desire to apply my knowledge to educate and assist others. A major inspiration for me has been my mom, Lori Palozzi, a Nurse Practitioner at SickKids and Holland Bloorview, whose work has helped many children living with chronic pain. Seeing the impact she has had on people’s lives has shaped my understanding of the value of healthcare and the importance of contributing to the well-being of others. I hope to follow in her footsteps, using my education to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

- Brianna Murphy

3rd Year B.S.c Biology-Psychology, Queen’s Peer Mentor

Growing up, change and uncertainty shaped my world—I was constantly navigating new spaces, questioning where I belonged, and searching for understanding. Through all that, science became my anchor, not just in explaining how the world works but in helping me find my place within it. Studying Health Sciences showed me that science isn’t just about discovery—it’s about impact, about using knowledge to improve lives and challenge inequities in healthcare and beyond. It taught me to ask better questions, push for change, and advocate for those who have been overlooked, which led me to leadership and equity work. Whether through student government, public health initiatives, or mentorship, I’ve worked to open doors for others, ensuring that those who come after me have fewer barriers to overcome. But there is still so much more to be done to make STEM truly

accessible to everyone. Women and girls belong in these spaces—not just as participants but as innovators, advocates, and leaders shaping our future. If you’re wondering whether you belong in STEM, you do, and the world needs you here.

- Jana Amer

3rd Year Health Sciences, AMS President 2025-26

February 11th is a reminder that advocacy for women's participation in STEM is tremendously productive & undoubtedly worthwhile. It influences the choices young girls decide to make about their futures, and it promotes a culture where participation is equal for all genders. It is a day of advocacy, for those who do not have equal opportunity, and appreciation, for those who have changed our world's trajectory for the better.

Thank you again to Yingel, Jana, Madison, and Brianna for sharing their insight and making

this blog possible.

Thank you again to Yingel, Jana, Madison, and Brianna for sharing their insight and making 

this blog possible.