Women’s Changemakers STEAM Day coming to Lindsay on March 25th

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: A one-day immersive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) experience, aimed at inspiring the next generation of female leaders, has received financial backing from the City of Kawartha Lakes.

At its meeting, on Tuesday, February 24th, council approved $2,500 in one-time funding, to support the upcoming Women’s Changemakers STEAM Event. It is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25th, at Ampere Makerspace, located at 12 Peel Street, in Lindsay.

Marlene Morrison-Nicholls and Vanessa Doucet-Roche recently appeared before council, to provide an overview of the Women’s Changemakers Fund and outline plans for the event which will welcome 100 girls, in Grades 10 to 12, for a full day of hands-on learning, focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).

“We believe you can’t be what you can’t see,” Ms. Morrison-Nicholls told councillors. “That’s why women across our community are coming together, to create an immersive, hands-on day, for high school students to explore pathways to changing the world.”

The March 25th event will feature interactive technology demonstrations, art stations, and panel discussions, led by women working in a range of STEAM-related fields. Organizers say, participants will hear directly from local leaders and entrepreneurs, in areas such as: Indigenous leadership and community knowledge, science education and research, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, and animal science and nutrition.

“This is about inspiration, confidence, and possibility,” said Ms. Doucet-Roche. “We want these young people to see real-world role models, who are shaping their industries and their communities, right here at home.”

The collaborative initiative brings together Women Changemakers Kawartha Lakes, Ampere, and a range of community organizations. Organizers described it as an experiential learning opportunity, designed to spark curiosity and open doors to future careers.

In their presentation, Ms. Morrison-Nicholls and Ms. Doucet-Roche asked councillors to consider financial support, to help offset event costs and ensure accessibility for participants.

Several councillors voiced support for the initiative, noting the importance of encouraging greater representation of women in traditionally underrepresented STEAM fields.

Council ultimately approved the $2,500 contribution, describing, it as an investment in local youth and future leaders.

Organizers said, the day will focus not only on skill-building, but also on connection, and linking students with mentors and professionals who can help guide their educational and career journeys.

“The future needs more women changemakers,” Ms. Morrison-Nicholls said. “If even one participant leaves believing she belongs in these spaces, we’ve made a difference.”