Nova Impact, a technology-driven not-for-profit organization, has launched and graduated its first cohort of women in STEM through the STEMinist Conference, a social impact initiative designed to empower young women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The initiative provides hands-on workshops, mentorship, and guidance to accelerate social confidence and create opportunities for women to thrive in STEM careers and businesses.
Held at the Kofi Annan ICT Center on March 22, 2025, the graduation ceremony and STEMinist Conference, themed “Accelerating Action: Building Inclusive STEM Ecosystems for Women,” highlighted the inherent abilities of women to inspire action, build networks, foster diversity, and create opportunities for women to excel in STEM fields locally and globally.
Celestina Aidoo, Executive Director of Nova Impact, outlined the organization’s vision and commitment to continuous efforts in STEM education. The dual occasion was graced by distinguished women in STEM fields, including tech diplomats, tech researchers, data analysts, and health experts, who gathered for the STEMinist Conference 2025.
Championing Women in STEM
The guest of honor, Priscilla Nana Yaa O. Opoku, Technology & Digitalization Advisor and Regional Lead at the Embassy of Denmark, delivered a keynote discussion on “Accelerating Action: Building an Inclusive STEM Ecosystem for Women.”
She encouraged women to share their stories through social media, intentional policies, structured programs, and dedicated commitments.
“We must document our achievements not just in corporate reports and policy briefs, but in books, articles, photography, columns, and on social media platforms. Women have been shaping technology, leading innovation, and transforming industries for decades. But if we do not showcase our impact, the world will continue to underestimate us. Every woman in this room has a story to tell. Share it. Write about it. Speak about it. Let young girls see what is possible. Let policymakers see the value of investing in women. If you have built a product, tell people about it. Visibility is not about ego; it’s about impact,” she stated.
Laying the Foundation for Inclusion
Delivering the keynote address, Selawoe Akusika Ayetor, Programmes Associate at Sheerise Tech, emphasized the need to empower young girls and women in STEM education. Her speech, titled “Accelerating Action: Empowering Women & Girls in STEM Learning,” explored systemic barriers and proposed actionable solutions, including mentorship programs, collaborations between government and private sectors, educational institutions, and digital literacy initiatives.
“Mentorship is a powerful tool in shaping your mind. Having visible, relatable, and successful role models in STEM encourages young women to envision themselves in these fields. We must invest in mentorship programs that connect experienced STEM professionals with aspiring young women,” Ayetor asserted, urging stakeholders to collaborate in bridging gender disparities.
From Awareness to Action: Insights from the Panel Discussion
One of the most anticipated segments of the conference was the panel discussion titled “From Awareness to Action: Supporting Women at All Stages of STEM Careers.” The session featured distinguished speakers:
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Akua Konadu Dapaah – Pharmacist & Regulatory Science Manager
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Audrey Zunou Ponu – Software Developer in Fintech & Banking Solutions
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Grace Naa Ardua Nelson – Pharmacist & Public Health Professional
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Deborah Adeolu Boluwatife – Data Analyst, AI & Cybersecurity Advocate
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Louis Ayamga – AI Researcher & Innovator
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Patience Agyekum – Head of Climate Change & Policy Programmes at Strategic Youth Network for Development
The discussion tackled critical topics such as workplace equity, funding opportunities for female-led STEM startups, leaving positive footprints for future inclusivity, and the role of mentorship in career advancement. Panelists shared personal experiences and success stories, leaving attendees with valuable insights.
About Nova Impact
Nova Impact is a technology-driven non-profit organization focused on youth development, digital security, and resilience. The organization runs key programs, including the Ghana Youth Tech Summit, the STEMinist Programme, Campus Tech Drive, AgriYouth Tech, and the Trust & Safety Africa Academy.
During the conference, Nova Impact celebrated a major milestone—the graduation of 20 young women who completed a tuition-free Digital Marketing Fellowship. These graduates received certificates in recognition of their commitment to upskilling in technology.
The organization invites stakeholders, organizations, and partners to join in supporting and empowering women in STEM. For more information, contact Nova Impact at +233 55 966 6829.
