On March 8, 2025, the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Kenyan Chapter hosted an International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration at Strathmore University under the theme Empowering Women in Leadership: Strategies for Inclusion of Women in STEM. The event brought together academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and students to discuss ways to bridge gender gaps in STEM fields. With an emphasis on leadership, mentorship, and innovation, the event provided a platform for knowledge-sharing and empowerment.

Women remain underrepresented in STEM leadership globally due to systemic barriers such as cultural stereotypes, implicit workplace biases, and limited mentorship opportunities. The workshop aimed to equip women with strategies to overcome these challenges, reinforcing the idea that inclusive leadership leads to better innovation and more equitable policies.

The opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Eng. Julius Butime, Dean of the School of Computing and Engineering Sciences at Strathmore University, and Dr. Elizabeth Gachenga, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, of Academics and Student Affairs. They emphasized the importance of mentoring the next generation of women in science and technology by providing guidance, support, and inspiration—leading to increased confidence, career advancement, and a more diverse and inclusive STEM community.

A keynote address on the topic “Transformative Leadership: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures” was a key highlight of the workshop. Ms. Ouma (Kenya Bureau of Standards) and Dr. Mwania (National Research Fund) led powerful discussions on the opportunities and challenges within their leadership spaces.

An interactive panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Victoria Obura, focused on leadership skills, mentorship strategies, and human rights-inclusive policies. The panel featured experts including Ms. Velima Obino (TEWE Energy), Ms. Felicia Mburu (Kenya National Commission on Human Rights), and Ms. Grace Wanjiku Galaty (Furaha and Baraka Farms). The diversity of perspectives expanded the conversation on leadership in both STEM and social systems, with a focus on leading with compassion and ensuring inclusivity in both leadership and policy development.

The event featured two breakout sessions designed to provide targeted skill-building:

Leadership Development Workshop – Led by Prof. Wanjiku Chiuri and moderated by Dr. Rose Nyambura, the session offered practical tools for navigating leadership roles. These included confidence, transparency, responsibility, and effective time management. Prof. Chiuri encouraged leaders to harness the strengths of the teams they guide.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation in STEM – Facilitated by Mrs. Esther Muchiri (CEO, E-mentoring Africa) and Cynthia Mkabane, this session focused on strategies for building women-led ventures, with emphasis on financial sustainability, networking, and resilience in innovation.

A standout moment of the day was the Young Innovators Showcase held at the Strathmore Business School (SBS) Atrium. Young women in STEM displayed their groundbreaking projects, highlighting the importance of early support for female innovators.

As the event concluded, one message stood strong: “Accelerating Action.” This IWD celebration was more than a discussion—it was a collective call to drive progress toward gender equity in STEM leadership. In her closing remarks, Dr. Veronica Okello stressed the need for sustained mentorship, institutional support, and open dialogue to ensure women can thrive and lead in STEM fields.

By hosting the OWSD Kenyan Chapter’s IWD 2025 celebration, Strathmore University reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women in science. The event not only celebrated women’s achievements but also laid the foundation for continued collaboration, mentorship, and empowerment in the world of STEM.