Womxn in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is a club that invites all students at Ayala to expand their connections for their future and help achieve gender equality in the workforce.
“When students join Womxn in STEM, they gain insight into various careers within the fields of STEM, and they can determine what they want their career to be,” co-president Safiya Bhojani (11) said.
Womxn in STEM assists all students who are interested in any fields of study that pertain to STEM, such as architecture, physics, biology, computer science, aerospace engineering, statistics, economics, and data analysis.
“[Our purpose is] to inspire, empower, and support students in exploring, pursuing, and thriving in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields through collaboration, leadership, and real-world opportunities,” Bhojani said.
The dedicated officer board consists of co-presidents Bhojani and Amber Aleman (10), Rosie Fischer (12) as secretary, Nikki Mohajer (11) as the UCC Representative, Sophie Wu (11) as Treasurer, and Nicole Ramirez-Lucero (10), who is in charge of publicity and social media.
This year’s officer board of talented students has transformed the purpose of Womxn in STEM and has allowed the club’s ideas to take flight, helping the club reach its true potential as a source of inspiration for all women.
“[Womxn in STEM} stands for gender equality, empowerment, and representation in fields that are often male-dominated,” Aleman said. “It represents breaking barriers, building confidence, and showing that women can succeed and lead in STEM. It inspires confidence and helps close the gender gap by showing that every student’s curiosity and intellect deserve a place in science and innovation.”
The hands-on activities Womxn in STEM hosts are one of the reasons it proves to be an exceptional club on campus. Events hosted in the past include STEM career panels, workshops geared towards technology, fundraisers to support women-focused STEM nonprofits, mini competitions within the club, and collaborations with other clubs at Ayala. This method of teaching allows students to gain knowledge outside of textbook information.
“Womxn in STEM stands out because it’s not just about academics, it’s about empowerment, mentorship, and real change,” Aleman said. “We don’t just explore STEM; we build a community that supports one another’s dreams and encourages personal growth beyond the classroom.
Vy Dong, a university chemistry professor, and Mo Wise, a wetland scientist, are just some of the talented experts who have been welcomed by the club. The guest speakers are truly at the center of the club, helping students branch out in their respective fields they plan to pursue, and allowing students to begin networking early.
“This club helps a lot with the connections that you can create that will help you in the future after college,” Ramirez-Lucero said. “Womxn in STEM is all about creating a future for yourself.”
Womxn in STEM also provides a safe space that is built within the club; not a place for competition but a healthy environment that fosters growth for all.
“We believe in lifting each other, not competing with one another. Empowerment through community,” Aleman said. “Every member’s success is the club’s success.”
Additionally, Womxn in STEM holds members of the club to the highest of their capabilities, and expects those who are serious about their future to approach the club in the same manner. Womxn in STEM look approvingly upon members of their club who act as passionate representatives who showcase a love of STEM and truly want to make a difference in the field.
“The passion that you have for what you want to pursue affects a lot of how much effort you’re going to put in to make a way for that in college and how much you’re willing to prepare for it,” Ramirez-Lucero said. “So what we value the most is passion because it really stands out when a club member has a lot of passion for their career, because they’re constantly asking questions.”
The future of the club looks especially bright as the officers aim to implement additional events this year that continue to elevate Womxn in STEM. Some plans include providing mentorship programs for students with female engineers and scientists, and having members tutor elementary students to inform them about STEM.
“Everyone is welcome, regardless of gender or background,” Aleman said. “Womxn in STEM is not just for aspiring scientists or engineers; it’s for anyone who believes in equality, innovation, and the power of curiosity. Together, we’re shaping a brighter, more inclusive future in STEM.”
