Looking to inspire the next generation of women in science? The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is the perfect moment to highlight the achievements of trailblazers like Susan Greenfield, Anne-Marie Imafidon, and Maggie Aderin-Pocock. Booking one of these speakers can ignite passion and curiosity in STEM, empowering girls to break barriers and pursue their dreams.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
On 11 February, the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a moment to recognise the vital contributions women and girls make to science and technology. Established by the UN in 2015, this annual event highlights the importance of gender equality in STEM fields and its role in shaping global progress. Led by UNESCO and UN-Women, the day promotes equal opportunities for women and girls to access education and careers in science.
Closing the Gender Gap
As 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of this important day, it’s a reminder of how much work still needs to be done. Women remain underrepresented in STEM, making up just 33.3% of researchers worldwide and 35% of students in related fields. Persistent stereotypes and systemic barriers continue to hold many girls back from pursuing education and careers in science and technology.
EXPLORE: PepTalk's top gender equality speakers.
Inspiring Women In STEM Speakers
Susan Greenfield
Baroness Susan Greenfield is a trailblazing neuroscientist and advocate for women in science. Her extensive research on how technology shapes the brain and her passionate work addressing systemic barriers for women in STEM make her a compelling speaker. As the author of the influential SET Fair report, Susan has helped reshape policies and practices to support gender equity in STEM fields. Her ability to connect cutting-edge neuroscience to societal issues ensures audiences leave inspired and informed.
PepTalk Fact: Susan has earned 32 honorary degrees from prestigious institutions worldwide 🎓
⮕ Learn more and book Susan Greenfield as a speaker.
Ruth Buscombe-Divey
Ruth Buscombe-Divey, a renowned Formula 1 strategist, brings a unique blend of engineering expertise and data-driven innovation to the stage. Her pivotal role in shaping race strategies and her advocacy for women in motorsport through the FIA Girls on Track initiative showcase her dedication to inspiring the next generation. Ruth’s engaging style and dynamic experiences offer powerful lessons in resilience, leadership, and STEM success.
PepTalk Fact: Ruth contributed to the development of the Drag Reduction System (DRS) in Formula 1 🏎️
⮕ Learn more and book Ruth Buscombe-Divey as a speaker.
Apryl Williams
Apryl Williams, Ph.D., is a leading voice in technology studies and critical media analysis, particularly in advocating for inclusivity in AI and digital design. Her innovative research on racial and gender biases in emerging technologies highlights crucial pathways for creating equitable tech solutions. Apryl’s unique perspective bridges academia, activism, and AI, making her an inspiring role model for young women entering STEM fields.
PepTalk Fact: Apryl advises the United States Congress on creating progressive AI legislation 🇺🇸
⮕ Learn more and book Apryl Williams as a speaker.
Liv Boeree
Liv Boeree, a former astrophysicist turned professional poker champion, blends her expertise in mathematics, game theory, and rational decision-making into captivating talks. Her ability to make complex concepts engaging, combined with her success in high-stakes environments, inspires young women to embrace STEM fields with confidence and creativity. Liv’s work in effective altruism adds a profound ethical dimension to her message.
PepTalk Fact: Liv has earned over $4 million in professional poker tournaments ♠️
⮕ Learn more and book Liv Boeree as a speaker.
Anna Butterworth
Anna Butterworth is a trailblazer in FemTech, combining strategic foresight with a passion for women’s health innovation. As the founder of Ultra Violet Agency, she has pioneered groundbreaking initiatives to enhance women’s wellness through technology. Her expertise in trend forecasting and communication ensures audiences are inspired to explore the transformative potential of STEM in everyday life.
PepTalk Fact: Anna created the first-ever trend forecasts for the FemTech industry 🌸
⮕ Learn more and book Anna Butterworth as a speaker.
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE is a STEM prodigy and the co-founder of Stemettes, a social initiative inspiring tens of thousands of girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and maths. Her dynamic speaking style and incredible achievements—including becoming the youngest girl to pass A-level computing at 11—make her an exceptional advocate for diversity in STEM.
PepTalk Fact: Anne-Marie became the youngest-ever recipient of a Master’s Degree from Oxford at age 20 🧠
⮕ Learn more and book Anne-Marie Imafidon as a speaker.
Belinda Parmar
Belinda Parmar OBE is a pioneering diversity advocate and CEO of The Empathy Business. Her work focuses on fostering inclusive cultures through innovative tools like the AI-powered Empathy Index. Belinda’s expertise in using empathy as a driver of organisational change makes her a powerful voice for women aspiring to lead in technology and STEM fields.
PepTalk Fact: Belinda created the Global Empathy Index, featured in the Harvard Business Review 💡
⮕ Learn more and book Belinda Parmar as a speaker.
Bernie Collins
Bernie Collins is a former Head of Race Strategy at Aston Martin F1 and an expert in engineering and data analysis. Her journey from repairing farm machinery in Northern Ireland to shaping race strategies at the pinnacle of motorsport showcases her tenacity and leadership. Bernie’s engaging talks inspire audiences to embrace STEM careers by connecting practical problem-solving with high-stakes decision-making.
PepTalk Fact: Bernie participated in the Formula Student competition while studying at Queen’s University Belfast 🛠️
⮕ Learn more and book Bernie Collins as a speaker.
Roberta Lucca
Roberta "Beta" Lucca, co-founder of Bossa Studios, is a leading voice in innovation and creative entrepreneurship. Known for her BAFTA-winning video game titles, Roberta inspires audiences to think differently about STEM by combining technology, creativity, and business strategy. Her work highlights how innovation in gaming can redefine opportunities for women in tech.
PepTalk Fact: Roberta was featured on BBC’s The Apprentice as a judge and investor 🎮
⮕ Learn more and book Roberta Lucca as a speaker.
Felicity Aston
Felicity Aston MBE is a record-breaking polar explorer and a passionate advocate for women in STEM. She inspires audiences by sharing her experiences leading international expeditions and conducting cutting-edge climate research. Felicity’s talks highlight how persistence, innovation, and teamwork can drive success in any field.
PepTalk Fact: Felicity was the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica 🧊
⮕ Learn more and book Felicity Aston as a speaker.
Maggie Aderin-Pocock
Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE is an award-winning physicist and one of Britain’s most beloved science communicators. Known for co-hosting the BBC’s The Sky at Night, Maggie brings space science to life in a way that inspires young minds. Her journey overcoming dyslexia to become a leader in her field underscores the power of perseverance and passion.
PepTalk Fact: Maggie was honoured with a Barbie doll in her likeness for International Women’s Day 🚀
⮕ Learn more and book Maggie Aderin-Pocock as a speaker.
💡 Would you like to inspire your school or organisation with an expert speaker about female empowerment or women in STEM? Let us know, and we’ll find the perfect PepTalk expert for your organisation. Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com or send us a message via the chat. You can also call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US). Remember, it’s always a good time to get a PepTalk!
