Media Release
18 October 2018
Where are tomorrow’s women leaders in science? The Australian Embassy held a TED-talk inspired event on 18 October to discuss the best way to encourage women into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.
The Australian Embassy event for Alumni and guests was titled: Cracking the Code of Women in STEM: Where are tomorrow’s women leaders in science?
The discussion set focused on why Indonesia has more women in STEM than Australia does and whether stronger female representation in STEM would lead to equal pay and greater leadership opportunities for women.
The event showcased three Australian alumni:
Dr Fenny Martha Dwivany - an associate professor at the School of Life Science and Technology within the Bandung Institute of Technology;
Dr Dwinantika Rika Marthanty - a senior lecturer and researcher at the Faculty of Engineering within the University of Indonesia;
Tengku Alia Sandra - a railway engineering department head at PT Mass Rapid Transit Jakarta.
An Australian speaker, Dr Francesca Maclean, also joined the discussion. Dr Maclean is a strategic director for Fifty50 - a student-led organisation promoting gender equity in STEM at Canberra’s prestigious Australian National University.
“These are all inspiring women working in interesting and important field,” Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia Gary Quinlan said.
“I hope their passion for STEM will motivate, inspire and challenge others to work and remain in these areas.”
Earlier this week, Australia appointed its first ever Women in STEM Ambassador, awarding winning astrophysicist Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith. The Professor will advocate for girls and women in STEM education and careers, raise awareness and drive change for gender equity in Australia.
Media Enquiries: Ian Gerard 021 25505290