Where Are the Girls Who Love Science?

This past weekend reminded me why I’ve always loved science. As someone with a degree in biochemistry, science has always been part of how I see the world — from how our skin reacts to different ingredients to the way our bodies function on a molecular level. When I was younger, I dreamed of becoming a cosmetic chemist. I never really pursued it, but that curiosity never left me.

So, when our local library hosted a kids’ activity focused on coding, I was genuinely excited. I thought, what a great way for my girls to explore something new and fun. They’re naturally curious, and I wanted them to see how creative and exciting STEM can be.

When we arrived, I noticed right away that my girls were the only Black girls in the room. Everyone else was mostly white boys. It wasn’t uncomfortable — but it was noticeable. And it made me pause.

There’s a common assumption that girls just don’t like STEM — that they aren’t interested in science, technology, engineering, or math. But from what I’ve seen, it’s not about interest. It’s about exposure. How can they love what they’ve never been shown? How can they see themselves in a field where no one looks like them?

As a mom, I want my daughters to know that their curiosity is valid. That they belong in every room, even in spaces where representation is lacking. I’m proud that they had fun, asked questions, and weren’t afraid to try something new. But I also couldn’t help but wish that there were more girls who looked like them — more representation, more encouragement, and more visibility for young Black girls who might one day become coders, engineers, or scientists.

Representation matters. Because when girls see themselves reflected in STEM, they realize it’s not just for “someone else” — it’s for them, too.

Still, I watched my girls laugh, tinker, experiment, ask questions. They were alive in that space. I’m proud of them. And I also want more for them — more role models, more visible evidence that girls (especially Black girls) belong in STEM fields.
Representation matters. When young girls see others who look like them doing science, they begin to believe they can do it too.

📺 Media to Inspire
Here are a couple of video examples you can embed:
Super Sema — STEM in action