Partner – Knowledge Economy Forum
Location – Vilnius and Klaipėda regions
Since 2024
Organised for two years in a row, “Team STEAM” was an educational and empowerment initiative designed to increase girls' participation in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) fields. Coordinated by the Knowledge Economy Forum and the British Council, the project addressed the persistent gender gap in STEAM fields by targeting schoolgirls aged 13–16, particularly those from linguistically diverse communities in Lithuania.
The initiative hosted three four–day STEAM day camps, offering hands–on workshops in fields like physics, robotics, chemistry, and programming, along with creative group challenges and visits to academic institutions. Camps were co–created with local partners and focused on fostering curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Participants reported significant increases in confidence and interest in scientific careers, expressing a lasting sense of motivation and empowerment.
Central to the project’s success was a tailored mentorship programme. Female mentors, including scientists, engineers, and academics worked one–on–one with the participants, offering guidance, encouragement, and career insights. These relationships helped deepen engagement and served as powerful counterexamples to traditional gender stereotypes.
“Team STEAM” not only nurtured individual growth but also created bridges between schools, minority communities, universities, and the broader scientific ecosystem. By elevating female role models and building an inclusive learning environment, the project inspired girls to envision themselves as creators, researchers, and leaders in a future shaped by science and innovation.
During the project:
69 young female students (13–16) participated in the programme, almost half being from linguistically diverse regions
13 mentors (all women scientists, academics, or STEAM professionals) took part in project activities.
14 young female students participated in the mentorship programme