Today I visited Arthur E Wright School, where I met the students and teachers in FEM Club, which stands for "Female Empowerment Members Club." I had the privilege of being a guest at their school and attending a FEM meeting, where the students had compiled a list of questions regarding my journey with GENEQU and how I became an advocate for Gender Equality. We discussed Girls in STEM, why youth needs to be involved in the fight for Gender Equality and more. When I arrived, Ms. Korade and her students were very welcoming. As soon as I walked into the school, they greeted me with smiles. All the students introduced themselves by telling me their names and what grade they're in. I got to visit room 11, and the first thing that caught my eye in the classroom was their artwork, which reflected what a creative group of individuals they were. I then went down to the library, where the FEM meeting was held. Two young students from the Grade 3/4 classroom gave me an introduction, and then I had the chance to speak about Female Empowerment and what it means to make the world a balanced place for all girls and women.
Many students came up to me after the meeting ended to ask questions and share about themselves. I had conversations with students during which they told me that they agree with FEM's message for female empowerment and why. I also talked to these students about their hobbies and interests, such as their favourite book or sport, giving me the chance to connect with them on a personal level. I even got a tour of the school led by a group of Grade 7/8 girls!
The message I conveyed to these students in FEM today is that it's good to be engaged in your learning by paying attention in class and asking questions. I also stated that everyone should pursue their passion and explained that it's important to know about your options by being exposed to different fields, whether it's art, music, or STEM to make well-informed decisions about your future.
The group of students at FEM were thoroughly engaged in the conversation and respectful. It was a pleasure to be at Arthur E Wright School today and meet them.
