The Dawoodi Bohra community of Vancouver hosted a fun science event on Saturday to mark the United Nations’ International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The interactive 60-minute session for young girls included making periscopes and “oobleck” (slime made out of cornstarch and water).
The event was officially opened by Dr. Larissa Vingilis-Jaremko, Founder & President of the Canadian Association for Girls in Science, who sent a pre-recorded video message to the young students. Voted in the Top 100 most powerful women in Canada, Larissa is a long-time supporter of this annual Dawoodi Bohra Girls in Science event, and looks forward to seeing the young girls having fun while building, experimenting and exploring science.
JeAnn Watson, Director of Youth Engagement for the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST), led the event’s activities. JeAnn is a Project Management Coordinator at Genome BC. With a background in biochemistry, specializing in natural and synthetic compounds in drug metabolism, JeAnn is devoted to helping organizations and individuals to make innovative discoveries. She is passionate about STEM engagement with youth from underrepresented groups.
JeAnn Watson said, “The girls’ energy and excitement energized me and I enjoyed working with them. Everyone is so genuine and authentic.”
The Canadian Association of Girls in Science (CAGIS) was founded In 1992 by Larissa Vingilis-Jaremko, then aged just nine. The not-for-profit is dedicated to facilitating interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among girls aged 7-16.
The Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST) collaborates with STEM leaders to engage and inspire women and girls with programs, advocacy and support networks across Canada.