The Ukrainian STEM is FEM project announced its transformation into a STEM ecosystem that will cover the whole country. It was announced by Serhiy Tokarev, an IT businessman, co-founder and partner of the investment group Roosh, and initiator of STEM is FEM. At the heart of the STEM ecosystem is a union of organizations, people, and ideas that contribute to the development of education and careers in various fields: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Serhiy Tokarev noted that the history of the project began in 2019. The main goal at that time was clear: to motivate Ukrainian girls to strive for knowledge in science and technology. The project team aimed to show participants the wide range of opportunities in these fields, provide them with inspiring examples of successful women in STEM and provide access to information about a variety of career prospects.
Building on this foundation, the project has grown into a multifaceted initiative using innovative educational approaches and strategic partnerships to develop the next generation of STEM leaders. Through dynamic workshops, immersive experiences, and mentorship programs, the project continues to develop a supportive ecosystem where girls can explore their interests, develop important skills, and chart their path to a successful career in STEM.
Under the leadership of the STEM is FEM team, an ambitious art project called SHE is SCIENCE was implemented. As part of this project, Ukrainian illustrators brought to life portraits of 12 outstanding Ukrainian women scientists. The works were presented at exhibitions not only in Ukraine but also abroad, including the UNESCO headquarters in Paris. Moreover, the project launched an educational series “Urbanism” on the leading national edutainment platform Diia.Education, which significantly expanded its impact and reach.
Serhiy Tokarev and the STEM is FEM team realized that they had sufficient experience and knowledge to achieve great results and make meaningful changes. In this regard, they decided to create the first STEM ecosystem in Ukraine. According to Tokarev, their main goal is to be an example for Ukrainian girls who are interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and dream of a career in these fields. In addition to organizing educational events such as webinars, lectures, and courses, they are launching a mentorship program for those who are just starting their journey in this direction.
According to Serhiy Tokarev, the new STEM ecosystem brings together three communities, each dedicated to supporting and developing participants in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
- STEM is FEM community for girls aged 14 to 22, where they can develop their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors and receive career advice;
- Alumni STEM is FEM Club is for young women who have participated in projects before and want to develop their knowledge and experience to help new participants;
- STEM is FEM Teachers Platform is designed for teachers to improve their STEM teaching practices, update their digital knowledge and receive support in their mentoring activities.
Following the statement of Elizaveta Korenko, the head of STEM is FEM, the main goal of the project at the moment is to establish stable operation of all three communities. The team focuses on holding regular meetings and providing a variety of educational programs, internships, scholarships, and employment opportunities for girls. As part of its activities, the ecosystem also plans to invite experts and mentors from Ukraine and abroad who are ready to share their knowledge and experience with participants in all three communities. In addition, the project actively interacts with educational institutions, businesses, and the government of the country to ensure full support and development of its activities.
