With the theme "Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science," we spoke with Prince of Wales Secondary Grade 12 student and young scientist Ann, about her passion for science and the significance of this day. 

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The theme focuses on breaking stereotypes and promoting role models for girls in STEM fields. Ann believes this day is important because she’s noticed a lot of gender inequality in scientific research. 

“In a lot of the pharmaceutical research, the test subjects are men and the same with heart attack studies I’ve been looking into as well,” she notes. 

These recognition days, she says, are important so those inequalities can be addressed. Ann's dedication and passion for science earned her prestigious awards and recognition on both national and international stages. In May 2024, Ann was awarded Best Project (Discovery) at the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) in Ottawa for her groundbreaking research on "Eradicating Cystic Fibrosis Biofilms by a Novel Non-Toxic, Multi-Pathway Salicylate Therapy." This accolade was just the beginning of an impressive journey. 

Ann also represented Canada at the 35th European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) in Katowice, Poland in September. Competing against 140 of the world's brightest young scientists with 85 innovative projects, Ann secured a second prize worth €5,000 for her exceptional work on cystic fibrosis biofilms. Her success continued at the Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF) in Taipei, held in January. This event brought together top high school students from 30 countries to showcase their STEM projects. Ann was awarded second prize in Medicine and Health for her project on cystic fibrosis biofilms, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the scientific community. Ann credits the support of many teachers as key to her learning and success at science fairs. Mr. Lee, a humanities teacher at Prince of Wales, supported Ann as she honed her public speaking skills. 

That was a tremendous help, she explains, “Because a lot of science is about presenting really complex research in about three minutes.” 

The course offerings she’s been able to select from have greatly benefited her learning journey. 

“My favourite thing about the courses at Prince of Wales is that you get to take such a diversity of them. I’ve gotten to take a lot of STEM courses – chemistry, physics, biology – and also been able to look at things in the humanities that are very interesting,” she explains. “As part of the mini school program I’m in, I got to take social justice 12 in Grade 11. It was a really great experience to learn about social movements.” 

Something Ann describes as expanding her understanding and thinking about her earlier science fair projects that looked at climate change. She was able to think about her project from both the scientific and the social aspects. After completing most of her academic courses in the first semester, Ann is currently taking a variety of courses to round out her skills and learning including woodwork, leadership, community service and history – with woodwork being very exciting as she masters making a table! Science isn’t all about labs, specimens and research. According to Ann, it’s also about learning from other young scientists. 

“I learned about all the different fields they are interested in,” she says. 

She explains that learning about the cultures and transformations of the cities she visited to compete in science fairs is equally as valuable to her. Ann's achievements are a testament to her hard work, creativity and commitment to making a difference in the world through science. Join us in celebrating Ann and all the inspiring women and girls in science who are shaping the future with their innovative ideas and relentless pursuit of knowledge. 

Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science!