women-in-science

Hello my fabulous readers!

Can we just take a moment to appreciate this glorious 15-degree weather that surrounds us today? The sun might try to hide now and then, but the radiant warmth is spilling through the train windows, spreading joy, and I am absolutely loving it. Yes, this weather is as refreshing as the scoop of mint chocolate chip!

As I enjoy the rhythmic dance of the train through Norway's expanses, my thoughts leap to something serious, yet thrilling - women pioneering in tech and science fields. My heart swells with pride as I picture these tenacious women navigating a sea of complex algorithms, laboratory trials and coding.

Yet, it's crucial to acknowledge that these fields have not always been the most inviting for women. It's a battle of stereotypes and glass ceilings, of systemic structures built by a male-dominated past that can sometimes seem daunting. But let it be clear, dear readers, the deck may seem stacked, but it's far from impossible, and I am super stoked to delve into it.

Indeed, women in science and tech are like the resolute sprouts that push their way through the barren lands, adding color and nuance where there was none. They're playing an enriching game of chess against biases and restrictions, one strategic move at a time, altering the course of humanity. How exhilarating is that!

I mean, have you ever noticed that these are the fields generally pertaining to logical reasoning, mathematical problem-solving, analytical skills? Societal norms had engraved these to be “male” attributes. It's fascinating, and by that, I mean utterly absurd, that traits were bifurcated by the genders. I am jumping on my seat, thrilled to write about such an eye-opening notion!

For decades, women's representation in these sectors has been thin. Yet, slowly but steadily, this is changing. The courageous women in science and tech who dared to challenge the status quo are testimony to the fact that ability is not gender-based. It's high time we rewrite the rulebook and toss these antiquated notions.

And trust me, it doesn't end there. Sometimes, the toughest challenge comes after breaking the barrier – the relentless struggle to thrive and sustain amidst unconscious biases and old school mindsets. I just can’t get over how much these women have accomplished and how much more they're poised to achieve. They inspire other women to dream, aim high, and challenge the misconceptions within these fields.

Let's not forget the balancing act they perform, juggling the intricacies of work and life, the push and pull of careers and families. Admirable, don't you think? I am charged with excitement as I pen this down, thinking about all the fierce women who echo resilience and determination.

So here we are, chugging along the picturesque landscapes, reaching towards our destination - technicolor dreams of equality and representation vivid in our minds. It's an exciting journey. The air is full of anticipation and the future looks radiant, where more women will illuminate the fields of science and tech, bringing their unique perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.

Signing off for now, until my next train journey, folks! Get out there, soak up the sun, and remember - the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves. Now, let’s go break some barriers and restyle the world of tech and science!

Tags: women in tech women in science gender equality

As the day gives into evening, I'm sitting on the train observing the melancholy rhythm of Raindrops create intricate patterns on my window. Blurring the vistas of the Norwegian countryside, they paint a somber canvas of shadows, reflected in my current state of contemplation. The landscape of tech and science fields are much like these fleeting drops of rain, beautifully complex yet, confined by a subtle undercurrent of adversity, particularly for women. Today, I delve into this, like the metaphorical rain seeping through the hardened surface beneath.

One cannot deny the advance of women in the arenas of tech or science however, there's an undeniable disparity between participation and recognition between genders. Women are often treated as underdogs, relegated to the outskirts in important decision-making processes and not expected to display significant dominance in tech leadership. Meritocracy is a beautiful concept, however, when marred by gender bias it creates a bleak spectrum of opportunities.

Secondly, the prevalent culture of many tech firms often makes it increasingly difficult for women to navigate professional landscapes. It's much like being a lone, wind-buffeted tree in the middle of a desolate plain, always at the mercy of storms they did not create. The chronic issue of sexual harassment is the rotten fruit of this cultural tree, a silent poison that gnaws away at the potential of many brilliant minds.

However, the most profound challenge is perhaps the prevalent stereotypes tied to these fields. I cannot explain how disheartening it is to hear phrases such as 'it's a man's job' or 'women aren’t as good with technology.' These preconceived misconceptions put women on the back foot and create a viscous cycle of self-doubt and underrepresentation.

Ironically, as I read an article about political stratagems employed by Hamas to deflect invasion, I find certain parallels. The article talks about this group, conventionally inferior yet not one to relent. This group, against all odds, has managed to prepare and guard stances using unconventional strategies. And isn't that what we, as women in science or tech fields endeavour to do? To break these conventional norms and bring forth a revolution of sorts, till we are no longer seen as the 'inferior' workforce, but as equal contributors.

The fight is not only towards achieving gender equality but to change the perception of women in these fields. It's a revolution under the banner of capability, not gender. And just like the sky won't stop raining because it's too full, we won't stop till every girl finds the science pen in her hand as comfortable as her favorite lipstick or the code on her screen as enthralling as a captivating novel.

As I pen down these thoughts, the desolate landscape outside mirrors my heart. But, each raindrop marks a new pearl of hope, each resilient tree reflecting the unfaltering spirit of women in tech and science. They say the greatest revolutions rise from the most desolate silences. Maybe, this is our time. For now, rain keeps falling and my train keeps chugging along, taking me home and into tomorrow.

Tags: women in science women in tech gender equality gender bias in STEM