Women scientists break barriers and inspire Azorean youth

Joana Soares, researcher at the AIR Centre, participated today in an educational panel organized by EB1,2,3/JI Ciprião de Figueiredo School, in Terceira Island, to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The initiative aimed at inspiring students to pursue scientific careers and promoting gender equality in science. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, established by the United Nations in 2015 and celebrated annually on February 11, recognizes the critical role women and girls play in science and technology, promoting their full and equal access and participation in these fields. The school's initiative brought together distinguished women from the scientific community and other areas of knowledge who stand out in Azorean society, particularly on Terceira Island, for their actions and example in promoting culture, development, and community well-being. These professionals shared their experiences and career paths with students, serving as role models for the next generation. According to the event organizers, the educational panels aim to "captivate and inspire our students to pursue paths of scientific and holistic culture, understood in its broadest and most integrative sense across various branches of knowledge, contributing to a school based on ethical values, open and responsible in assuming commitments to development." The initiative embraces the philosophy of "learning by doing," empowering students to become conscious of their role as tomorrow's leaders. The participation of researchers like Joana Soares from the AIR Centre allows students to learn firsthand about scientific research being conducted in the Azores, providing role models and demonstrating the opportunities available in the region for those pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This event represents an important contribution to promoting gender equality in science and encouraging scientific vocations among young Azoreans. [PC, 11 February 2026]