In the ever-evolving world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), diversity isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a catalyst for innovation. Yet, for many LGBTQ+ individuals, the path into these fields remains fraught with challenges.

Recent research revealed that nearly 30% of LGBTQ+ young people in the UK avoid pursuing STEM careers due to fears of discrimination. But amid these statistics, a new generation of LGBTQ+ scientists and engineers is breaking barriers, redefining norms, and inspiring others to follow suit. 

Shrouk El-Attar: Engineering change and advocating for refugees

Born in Alexandria, Egypt, Shrouk El-Attar is an electronics engineer and a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ and refugee rights. After seeking asylum in the UK, she pursued her education at Cardiff University, where she combined her technical expertise with activism. Shrouk’s unique approach includes performing as a belly dancer under the moniker “Dancing Queer” to raise funds for LGBTQ+ individuals facing persecution in Egypt.

Her contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2018, she was named one of the BBC’s 100 Most Influential Women, and in 2021, she received the Institution of Engineering and Technology’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year award. Shrouk’s journey underscores the power of resilience and the impact of combining technical skills with advocacy.

Professor David K. Smith: Making chemistry accessible and inclusive

At the University of York, Professor David K. Smith is not only renowned for his work in nanochemistry but also for his commitment to making science accessible. An openly gay academic, David has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in STEM. Through his engaging YouTube channel, he demystifies complex chemical concepts, making them relatable to a broader audience. 

David’s outreach efforts aim to challenge stereotypes about scientists and encourage young LGBTQ+ individuals to see themselves in scientific roles. His work exemplifies how visibility and education can go hand-in-hand to foster inclusivity in STEM fields.

Dr. André K. Isaacs: Fusing science with choreography

Dr. André K. Isaacs, a Jamaican-born chemist based in the United States, is redefining science communications. Known for his viral TikTok videos that combine chemistry lessons with choreographed dances, André brings a fresh and engaging approach to education. His signature rainbow lab coat isn’t just a fashion statement — it’s a symbol of pride and inclusivity in the lab.

Beyond social media, André is dedicated to mentoring students and creating supportive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals in science. His innovative methods demonstrate that embracing one’s identity can enhance, rather than hinder, scientific outreach and education.

The importance of representation in STEM

The stories of Shrouk, David, and André highlight the profound impact that representation can have in STEM fields. When individuals see themselves reflected in their professions, it establishes a sense of belonging and encourages diverse perspectives, which are essential for innovation.

However, challenges persist. A study by the Institute of Physics found that 28% of LGBTQ+ physical scientists in the UK have considered leaving their workplace due to discrimination. Additionally, research indicates that transgender and gender non-conforming students continue in STEM majors at a rate roughly 10% lower than their cisgender peers.

These statistics underscore the need for continued efforts to create inclusive environments where all individuals can thrive.

Inspiring the next generation

Fostering diversity in STEM is crucial for driving progress and innovation. By supporting underrepresented groups through scholarships, outreach programmes, and educational initiatives, we aim to break down barriers and open doors for the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Rainbow flags, big celebrations, music, dancing — for a lot of people, that’s the heart of Pride. It’s joy, community and unapologetic self-expression.

But Pride is also about pushing for change, especially where LGBTQ+ people still struggle to feel seen and heard. And yes, that includes STEM — science, technology, engineering and maths.

Now imagine the ideas, breakthroughs, and discoveries that might have been lost because someone didn’t feel welcome to get involved…

So, why does this matter?

Because STEM shapes the world we live in. From tackling climate change to designing new tech, the people working in these fields have a big influence on how we live, work, and solve the problems of today.

Also, here’s the thing: diverse teams are better at solving problems. And that’s backed by evidence. A 2018 study found that when people from different backgrounds and identities bring their own perspectives to the table, the results speak for themselves.

But this can only happen when people feel welcome to show up as themselves.

Pride is a year-round celebration of identity, community, and allyship

It’s about celebrating identity — of course — but also about challenging systems that still don’t work for everyone. In STEM, that means looking at how workplaces, schools, and even outreach programmes are built. Who gets the opportunities? Who gets to lead? Who gets listened to?

It also means giving LGBTQ+ pupils and young people visible role models, not just once a year, but every day. Representation matters, especially for young people figuring out where they belong.

Inclusivity isn’t a tick-box exercise. It’s something that should be built into everything you do. We need to open doors for underrepresented groups in STEM — whether that’s girls in engineering, black and global majority students in science, or LGBTQ+ young people who don’t yet see themselves reflected in the field.

STEM should be for everyone. Not just because it’s fair, but because it makes sense!

Imagine being passionate about science, but feeling like there’s no space for you in it. That’s the reality for many LGBTQ+ people working in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths). In fact, research published in Science Advances shows LGBTQ+ scientists are more likely to experience discrimination and feel professionally devalued than their straight, cisgender peers. Some even consider leaving their careers altogether.

That’s a big loss for the whole sector. 

Birmingham Pride is on 24 and 25 May, making it a perfect time to highlight some of the incredible LGBTQ+ people who’ve made a lasting impact on STEM.

Alan Turing is a good place to start. As one of the greatest minds of the 20th century, his codebreaking work at Bletchley Park helped end the Second World War. Yet, he was persecuted for being gay, eventually leading to his death. Today, though, he’s remembered as a national hero and even features on the Bank of England’s £50 note. And rightly so.

There’s also Dr Jessica Esquivel, a particle physicist working at Fermilab in the United States. Her work helps us better understand the fundamental particles that make up the universe — now that’s the kind of science that shapes the future.

And then there’s Dr Lynn Conway, a pioneering computer scientist and transgender woman, whose innovations in microchip design paved the way for much of the technology we use today. Her contributions transformed computing, yet for years she was written out of the story.

At Millennium Point, we believe everyone should have access to opportunities in STEM — regardless of their background, gender or identity. That’s why our Trust supports underrepresented young people across the West Midlands, through scholarships, funding and outreach work that helps to level the playing field.

Have you got a favourite LGBTQ+ scientist or engineer? Or maybe someone local who’s breaking boundaries in their field? We’d love to hear who inspires you.

Millennium Point has announced a new free event for schools on 23rd June – the SciENGINEERING Showcase. The landmark building will be full of fun shows and interactive workshops showcasing the exciting side of engineering.

School groups from across the West Midlands are invited to book free places. Students will be able to take part in fun activities and enjoy live performances, all themed around engineering. Plus, industry leaders will be appearing to discuss their work and give career advice.

SciENGINEERING is the fourth of Millennium Point’s annual SciSERIES events, developed to showcase the wealth of career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) industries. Over 3000 children have already enjoyed a free SciSERIES event and this year’s event is expected to be equally popular. The SciSERIES events are part of Millennium Point Trust’s wider aim to support the growth of STEM skills in education, for which it has already invested over £40 million into the region.

Millennium Point CEO, Abbie Vlahakis commented: “Engineering not only provides exciting careers, but also the opportunity to physically improve your local community and maybe even the whole world. The SciENGINEERING Showcase will be fun day out and may even inspire the next prominent aerospace engineer.”

The SciENGINEERING Showcase takes place at Millennium Point on Monday 23rd June and is perfect for school years 5 to 10. If you would like to book free places for your school, or if you would like to promote your company to over 1000 local young people, email [email protected].

Each year the Millennium Point Trust funds an undergraduate degree at BCU’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and the Built Environment.

To celebrate the Scholarship’s 10th year, we are speaking to some of the previous winners to revisit their winning moments.

2023’s winner Safa is the latest winner who impressed judges on the assessment day

Safa was studying Applied Science at South and City College, she developed an interest in the computing world in secondary school and was further inspired by speeches from women in STEM. Now at BCU we caught up with her to see how her first term went!

‘University life as a Computer Science student has become a transformative experience. Embracing a multitude of coding projects, from creating efficient algorithms to developing practical applications, and provided a hands-on understanding of the diverse aspects of the field’.

Continuing on her Scholarship Safa says ‘Overall, the Scholarship has not only paved the way for academic success but has also enriched my university experience by providing a progressive and collaborative environment. I’m excited to continue this journey, exploring new challenges and developing technologies in the field of Computer Science’.

Asima won in 2021 and is well into her STEM story

Asima was studying Social Science and Humanities before scoring top spot in the Scholarship finalists.

Asima remembers why applying for the Scholarship was so important to her. ‘The reason I applied for the Scholarship was because it was an opportunity that stood out. It’s your entire undergraduate degree that has been paid for. I was thinking how lucky I would have been if that was done for me. And I went for it because I had nothing to lose and an opportunity to gain’.

Continuing she wants to promote and help others get into STEM. ‘When I won the Scholarship, I felt so lucky, happy, and very overwhelmed that I was chosen. As well as having the degree paid for, I was also given a platform from the Millennium Point Trust which would help me reach out and try and help and guide others too as a STEM ambassador’.

Laura’s ‘dream come true’ when she secured her Scholarship in 2019

Laura who went on to study Film Production Technology beat over 100 applicants in the record breaking year. Looking back Laura realised by spending a little time on her application, it started her on the path to winning the Scholarship.

‘Sparing a little of my time to fill in the application in return for what could be a big opportunity was an obvious choice that I knew I couldn’t let pass by. The Scholarship is open to everyone, and that really inspired me to apply because there were no expectations other than having a passion for the course I had already applied for’.

‘I  think the Scholarship is a brilliant scheme that extends beyond the funding – I was supported to build so much confidence during the process and it was great that at that age a very shy person such as myself was given a chance to share my love for my subject and demonstrate it’s importance. I’m sure all the other candidates feel the same way’.

 

 

Dudley College of Technology has revealed its brand new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) hub, that will enhance education and accessibility within the community. The project, funded by Millennium Point has transformed an existing space which the college had outgrown into a dynamic space fostering innovation and creativity in students.

Nestled beneath Dudley Castle, the renovation of the current Design & Technology room, formerly an elephant house, is a result of collaboration between dedicated staff and students, and the financial aid provided by Millennium Point Charitable Trust. Approximately £17,500 of the total grant has funded the purchase of a wide array of cutting-edge equipment, including a 3D scanner compatible with 3D printers, height-adjustable workbenches, a laser cutter, and an F24 Greenpower kit-car. This array of tools is designed to cater to learners of all abilities and empower an inclusive educational environment.

Part of the Millennium Point funding will also enhance the STEM library, making it a valuable resource for local Dudley Academies Trust (DAT) schools and the broader community. This vision extends to Brierley Hill’s Inspired Art and Design Centre, which is under consideration as a dual site for the STEAM Hub, offering specialised support for students with SEN.

The iZone, Dudley College’s upcoming purpose-built engineering block, is another integral part of this project. Boasting a laser cutter and an existing printer, the iZone epitomises the high-tech aspirations of the STEAM hub initiative.

Adrian Eynon, Product Design lecturer at Dudley College of Technology, said: “Product Design is very much a traditional craft-based subject, but we’re wanting to modernise and move into a technological future with laser cutters and 3D printing, which will prepare students for the world they’ll experience in the industry. The investment will massively increase the quality and standard of the students’ work, and that quality will translate to their confidence.”

Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, added: “I am immensely proud of our collaboration with Dudley College of Technology and establishing the Universal Access STEAM Hub. This project underlines our mission to promote STEAM education, and we hope it will serve as a cornerstone for educational excellence, and inspiration for the local community.”

Set to welcome its first students in early 2024, the Universal Access STEAM Hub marks a significant milestone in the college’s history.  This transformative educational environment is set to inspire not only the current crop of learners, but also future generations.

Trinity High School & Sixth Form Centre in Redditch has marked the grand opening of its brand new STEM room, a cutting-edge facility that is revolutionising the way students engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. The project, funded by Millennium Point’s STEM grants programme, has transformed a once-neglected space into a vibrant hub for innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning.

The STEM room, located at the heart of the school’s Creative and Technical Faculty, is the result of a collaborative effort between dedicated staff members, enthusiastic students, and the invaluable financial assistance provided by the Millennium Point Charitable Trust. The project saw the conversion of a previously unused and unloved space, into a state-of-the-art facility designed to inspire and empower future engineers, designers, and scientists.

The new space serves as a classroom, computer suite, and rapid prototyping room equipped with a laser cutter and 3D printers. Students have access to industry-standard software like Fusion 360, allowing them to design, create, and witness their ideas come to life. The room accommodates up to 25 students and is currently being used for GCSE Engineering classes, computer science lessons, and after-school STEM club activities. The room has also welcomed visits from middle school students as part of their transition programmes and supports art classes and 3D jewellery design.

Nigel Ford, Headteacher of Trinity High School & Sixth Form Centre, said: “We are immensely grateful to Millennium Point for its invaluable contribution, which has not only enhanced the educational experience but also revitalised a neglected space to breathe life into our STEM subjects. By introducing real-world technology to our students, they can now develop their design ideas and witness them materialise before their eyes. It’s truly astonishing to see their enthusiasm and pride in their accomplishments.”

Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, said: “We are delighted to have played a role in transforming Trinity High School & Sixth Form Centre’s STEM room into a vibrant and innovative space for learning. This initiative perfectly aligns with our mission to promote STEM education and empower the next generation of innovators. Trinity High School’s dedication to this project has been commendable, and we are delighted to have played a part in making this vision a reality.”

A special plaque unveiling ceremony took place on December 5th, 2023, to formally open the new STEM space. The ceremony was attended by school staff, students and representatives from Millennium Point.

Read more about Millennium Point Trust Grants here.

Encouraging STEM education as a part of early learning is an important stepping stone in helping children build a career path in STEM. STEM subjects help contribute toward innovation, creativity and improved quality of life. That’s why we here at Millennium Point are working hard to create opportunities that encourage the younger generation to get into the industry. Our STEM grant and scholarship help students and not-for-profit organisations bring projects to life and study university courses that truly boost their experiences within STEM. 

What is STEM? 

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths and is a combined approach where all subjects are taught together and not separately. This helps equip students with the right skills to undertake a career within the industry. 

Creating equal opportunities in STEM

Despite STEM subjects being prominent in a range of industries, a lot of them are unfortunately lacking a female presence. For example, only 25% of computing jobs and 15% of technology jobs are occupied by women. 

To truly achieve successful benefits for society a diverse workforce should be created within the STEM industry. Currently, only 28% of the workforce is formed of women. Some factors causing the gender gap in STEM include:

How can the gender gap be closed in the STEM industry?

It’s important that the gender gap is closed within STEM industries, especially within business, culture, government and legislation. Welcoming all genders and cultures within the industry will bring diverse experiences and help further innovation and creativity. 

The following steps can help close the gender gap in STEM:

Prioritising attracting and retaining women 

By attracting and retaining more women, the gender gap will start to narrow. To do this, more needs to be done to shout about how great STEM subjects, jobs and sectors are. Through improving marketing and advertising and getting more people talking about the industry, STEM benefits from a well-skilled, diverse workforce. 

Break down stereotypes

Unfortunately, there are still lots of stereotypes surrounding women’s intellect and STEM being a male industry. As a result, a greater effort needs to be made to break down stereotypes suggesting that STEM subjects are better suited to boys. When this is achieved, girls should feel more confident to study and undertake careers in the industry.

Improve workplace cultures

In order to encourage more women to join the workforce, businesses must improve their workplace culture. By removing gender pay gaps, hostile work environments and creating better career progression for women, the gender gap will start to close.

The benefits of STEM

STEM education has a range of benefits including:

Millennium Point’s STEM Grant 

The Millennium Point Charitable Trust provides funding annually to not-for-profit organisations, schools, and colleges across the West Midlands Combined Authority area. Applicants can apply for up to £20,000 to fund their STEM-related project subject to meeting the eligibility criteria and demonstrating a measurable impact in STEM education and / or STEM career choice. We also welcome applications for smaller grants from £1,000.

Find out more about our Grants here. 

Millennium Point’s STEM Scholarship

We’ve partnered with Birmingham City University to give a fully funded undergraduate degree at their Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment. 

To be eligible for our STEM scholarship you will need to meet the following criteria:

Applications open Monday 8th January and can be found here. 

Applications for our charitable Trust STEM Grants programme are now open!

Our grants are available from £1,000 to £20,000 to individual applicants to support science, technology, engineering & maths (STEM) education in Birmingham and the wider region. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 8th December 2023, meaning you have got just under a month to apply. You can apply here.

We want everyone to have the best chance of success. That’s why we have put some useful tips below.

A good plan is half the work done

To get started, complete the form that can be easily downloaded from our website. Have a read through all the sections and start to complete them in as much detail as you can as this will help us when our team begin to shortlist applications.

Clearly plan what the aims of the project and how those aims will be achieved. Don’t forget to include details on how the success of the project will be measured. This is where using ‘SMART’ objectives will be useful.

Make sure your application is detailed with what activities will take place, when, and where they will be carries out will also help chances of being successful. Have a look through your budget plan and ensure it contained the correct pricing and quantities for everything you need to achieve your project.

When talking about your project look at the link between the project and the selected category choice. Make sure the connection is clear to show why you’re doing the project and how it will benefit your chosen group. Also plan about the duration of the project, will it be throughout the year, or could the project be done in a day? Can the project be repeated with the resources bought, or is it a one-off project?

For extra help the guidance and FAQ pages will help you with your application, you can always contact our friendly Trust team too [email protected].

Submitting your application or grants

Have a read through your final application, ensure that it’s clear, precise and explains all about the exciting project you have planned.

After you have decided you’re happy with your application, submit it to us by email – [email protected]. Make sure you send it in before the 5pm on 8th December 2023.

What happens next?

Once it’s sent over, out fantastic Trust team will send you an email acknowledging receipt, you won’t hear from us again until a decision has been made. All applications will be read through by the Grants team and then moderated by a separate panel. It will finally be presented to our Trustees who will make the final decision on the successful applicants. At this stage you don’t have to do anything but wait for the good news!

Our grants help make STEM happen!

Over the past five years, the Millennium Point Charitable Trust has awarded over £2 million to charities, not-for-profits, community groups and schools to further STEM education. Millennium Point Charitable Trust has previously seen the rewarding outcome of past projects such as designing the perfect community at Lyng Primary School and Sandwell College going 3D.

Last year Millennium Point Trust saw 100 applications from not-for-profit organisations in aim of receiving a share of the grant money.

 

At Millennium Point, giving back to the community is massively important to us, which is why we have our Millennium Point Charitable Trust where we invest funding to help further STEM education in the West Midlands. 

This blog will explore how we’ve helped people and schools around the West Midlands gain better STEM opportunities. 

Millennium Point’s charitable mission

Our mission is to advance education for public benefit. We have a special emphasis on, but not limited to, the industrial and technological processes that have not only shaped the modern world but will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future.

Flagship initiatives 

We have three exciting flagship initiatives built for improving educational opportunities. These include:

Grant funding 

This provides funding for not-for-profit organisations, schools and colleges across the West Midlands Combined Authority area. Applicants can apply for up to £20,000 to fund a STEM-related project, as long as it meets eligibility requirements. Their idea will also need to showcase the measurable impact it will have on STEM education and/or a STEM career choice. 

We have awarded over £2,100,706 to charities, not-for-profit (NFPO’s) organisations, community groups and schools over the last 5 years. 

To learn more about how our grant funding works, take a look at our page.  

The scholarship programme

We’ve partnered with Birmingham City University to provide a fully funded undergraduate degree at their Faculty of Computing, Engineering and The Built Environment.

Applications are currently closed for 2023, but you can keep an eye out for next year’s applications opening here.

The STEM Roundtable 

The STEM Roundtable brings together leaders from STEM industries, primary and secondary schools, further education, higher education and NFPO’s in STEM sectors. 

The Roundtable aims to:

Key objectives 

We have a few key objectives we’re aiming to meet, as we support others in their STEM journey. These goals include:

Case studies 

Over the years we’ve supported many schools and organisations in the West Midlands, as well as those looking to pursue a career in STEM. So here are a few examples of people and organisations we’ve helped.

St Edmund’s Campion RC School

We’ve worked with St Edmund’s Campion RC School to create a STEM club that provides chances for children to explore topics that aren’t in the curriculum and work on large-scale projects.

This has been introduced, due to the school having a high level of disadvantaged students and many of them feeling as though an academic future and/or STEM career is out of their reach.

The school received the grant as it was important that their afterschool program delivered excellent quality lessons and gave children the opportunity to learn about STEM subjects just like other children do. 

You can learn more about how we helped the school on our website.

Aston Villa Foundation – STEM Stars

The Aston Villa Foundation’s mission is to work together to enrich lives, which is why they deliver Aston Villa Football Club’s community and social responsibility work. 

STEM Stars developed a new STEM programme for six schools within a three-mile radius of Villa Park. The grant funding will purchase a Sphero robot package (this includes robots and a small pitch) which will use football to get children engaged in coding. 

Due to the area around Villa Park being highly deprived in terms of income and education, it was important that the grant went to something helping to give children better opportunities within the STEM industry, in this case focusing on coding. 

You can learn more about STEM Stars here.

Safa Bibi secures scholarship glory  

Last year our winner, Safa Bibi, used the scholarship to undertake a degree in computer science at Birmingham City University. 

Safa is the ninth winner of the scholarship, meaning we’ve already funded eight fantastic winners in their STEM career.  

If you’re interested in learning more about how the scholarship works and how you can apply, take a look at our scholarship page. 

We’ve been giving back to the community for the past 20 years and would love for you to get involved. If you’re interested, get in touch with us today!