Bridging Brilliance: Normalizing Women in STEM

The STEM field is becoming increasingly more critical to driving scientific advancements, pioneering new products, and fueling technological progress. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the immense potential in STEM occupations, projecting a growth rate of 10.8% between 2021 and 2031, more than double the rate of non-STEM employment at 4.9%. Despite these abundant opportunities, inequitable access and uneven success persist. BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color)  women constituted 20.3% of the US population, yet represent a mere 5% of STEM professionals. This issue extends beyond a pipeline problem.

Solutions must address the root causes that push and keep BIPOC girls and women away from STEM. The exclusion of BIPOC girls and women from STEM is a deeply entrenched issue that oversimplified narratives cannot explain away. Claims of disinterest or inherent gender-based inferiority fail to hold up under scrutiny. Inclusive cultural environments foster participation and success, as seen in examples from Malaysia, China, and the former USSR, where a higher representation of women in engineering exists. However, the US has fallen behind in creating inclusive environments, especially for women of color. Shockingly, for every 12 women graduating with a STEM degree, only 5 (42%) find employment in STEM fields two years after graduation and this number further declines to 3 (25%) after 10 years. The diversion from STEM that BIPOC girls and women experience facilitate the pipeline issue.

Structural racism and gender bias permeate the STEM pipeline, limiting belief in women's capabilities and perpetuating inequitable outcomes across the entire STEM ecosystem. Representing just 31% of the US population, white men occupy a staggering 70% of STEM occupations, underscoring stark disparities. These inequities are deeply rooted in our STEM education system, which lacks cultural congruence and relevant literacy, leadership, and technical training programs for BIPOC girls to leverage for social and economic growth. The talent acquisition approach within the system lacks diversity, particularly in decision-making positions, reinforcing implicit bias and impeding the establishment of authentic connections with diverse talent pools. Furthermore, talent development and retention strategies frequently devalue BIPOC women, impeding their professional advancement at each stage of the talent pipeline. A recent report by McKinsey & Company highlights the challenges BIPOC women face at the intersection of gender and race, but more needs to be done. We understand that we must continue to investigate the intersectionality of experiences that BIPOC women face.

The exclusion of BIPOC women in STEM, from educational opportunities to and through venture funding, hampers innovation and threatens the US's global standing, economic strength, and ability to create products and services for diverse domestic and international communities. More STEM jobs remain unfilled, hindering innovation and stifling value creation and the lack of progress addressing equity challenges within the STEM field impedes economic progress for BIPOC communities and perpetuates the elusive nature of finding solutions to global equity challenges. At Self-eSTEM we are changing the face and culture of STEM to dismantle archaic systems and provide mobility and security for all. 

Self-eSTEM strives to revolutionize STEM innovation to break down persistent barriers faced by BIPOC girls and women. Our comprehensive model envisions a world where they are recognized, respected, and valued as STEM innovators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers, driving global solutions that enhance life outcomes for their families and communities. Through an engaging and empowering program, Self-eSTEM aims to ignite pride, purpose, and possibility among BIPOC girls and women in STEM.

Our approach provides three essential opportunities to ensure BIPOC girls and women remain and thrive in the STEM pipeline. Firstly, Self-eSTEM acknowledges the diverse cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our participants, known as Innovators. Employing a culturally responsive educational approach, we create an inclusive and empowering learning environment that respects and celebrates the cultural identities of each Innovator. We value diverse cultural groups' traditions, languages, histories and knowledge, ensuring the full embrace of our Innovators' individual identities and learning needs. Our program curriculum challenges dominant narratives and systems that marginalize our Innovators, promoting equity and social justice.

Furthermore, our curriculum challenges biased representations of STEM, providing a more accurate and inclusive understanding of the field. Demystifying and decolonizing STEM, we counteract white male and homogeneous STEM biases through project-based teaching, enhancing student engagement, skill development, and academic achievement. Leveraging the Innovators' own identities, norms, and cultures, our curriculum fosters a profound sense of belonging and motivation. Our curriculum nurtures critical thinking, empathy development, and self-esteem, crucial factors for preparing BIPOC girls and women for STEM fields, global citizenship, and social uplift.

Secondly, Self-eSTEM offers high-quality STEM training and mentorship to our Innovators. We enhance their knowledge, capabilities, and personal growth through culturally rich and empowering guidance, support, and skill development. This support not only boosts student success, professional development, and career advancement, it also fosters knowledge sharing, a sense of belonging, and a community of future STEM leaders. Our flagship Early STEM Immersion Program provides various opportunities for Innovators to engage in training and mentorship, including the STEM Exploration Camp, Monthly Weekend Programming, and Robotics Team Competitions. Additionally, our in-development Emerging STEM Leader Program aims to support and retain BIPOC women through professional and career development workshops, life coaching sessions, and lead generation for experiential and full-time employment.

Lastly, Self-eSTEM strengthens the network of BIPOC women in STEM. Through various networking events held annually, we foster the building and maintenance of professional relationships among BIPOC women professionals. These events serve as platforms for sharing opportunities, knowledge, and insights, forming collaborations and partnerships, establishing reputation and visibility, and providing crucial support and inspiration for long-term success.

Through our culturally relevant programming, training and mentorship, and networking opportunities, Self-eSTEM promotes skill development, addresses bias and stereotypes, overcomes access and success barriers, and builds confidence and representation for BIPOC women to thrive in STEM. We firmly believe that by transforming the face and culture of STEM, we’ll unlock the immense potential of BIPOC girls and women, paving the way for a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative future in the STEM fields.

At Self-eSTEM, we passionately believe that every BIPOC girl and woman deserves the chance to thrive in STEM. We reject a society that limits their potential with outdated biases and systemic barriers. Instead, we're committed to empowering and uplifting our Innovators, igniting a fire within them that burns brightly with pride, purpose, and possibility.

Our Innovators represent a vibrant tapestry in our nation, with nearly 70 million individuals nationwide and a significant presence in the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Area. They contribute immeasurably to society, enriching culture, shaping academia, driving innovation, and leaving an indelible mark on every field. Despite their invaluable contributions, they often face systematic discouragement from pursuing science and math, resulting in underrepresentation and undervaluation in STEM.

Education, intended as the great equalizer, can become a barrier for our Innovators. Biases, stereotypes, and microaggressions seep into their learning experiences, hindering their access, preparation, and success in STEM. These challenges extend beyond the classroom, casting shadows over resources, equal pay, opportunities, mentors, role models, and supportive networks. Acknowledging these obstacles is not enough—we must actively dismantle them.

Self-eSTEM's unwavering dedication lies in our holistic approach, nurturing a growth mindset and resilience within our participants, reshaping the face and culture of STEM. We understand the significance of their lived experiences and unique hurdles. Embracing their whole selves, we strive to identify their strengths and challenges, working collaboratively to accelerate progress and overcome barriers.

Since 2014, Self-eSTEM has made a remarkable impact. We’ve engaged over 1,300 BIPOC girls aged 7-17, with 65% from low-income families. Our programs boast an impressive 90% attendance rate, and we proudly celebrate a 100% college matriculation rate among our participants, equipping them with the tools for success in higher education and beyond.

Mentoring lies at the heart of our work. As women with the same lived and shared experiences, we understand the importance of networks. We have connected over 150 BIPOC women aged 18 and older with experienced mentors who understand their unique journeys. Through over 1,300 hours of STEM training programming, we foster a deep understanding of the subjects and instill confidence in their abilities. Our impact extends further as we activate over 1,000 dedicated STEM and community-based volunteers, amplifying our efforts.

Beyond the statistics, we strive to transform the very core of our Innovators—building self-confidence and reshaping lived experiences. We envision a world where BIPOC girls and women are recognized, respected, and valued as STEM innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. They become driving forces behind global solutions, enhancing life outcomes and improving the quality of life for their families and communities. To achieve this vision, our resolve remains unwavering. We actively seek to amplify and scale access and opportunity, leaving no BIPOC girl or woman behind. Our mission is fueled by passion, knowledge, and unwavering optimism, driven by the belief that together, we can create a more just and equitable society. We envision a future where every BIPOC girl and woman shines brightly in STEM, shaping future generations.

Self-eSTEM is poised to transform the landscape of STEM culture and create meaningful opportunities for underrepresented communities. At the helm of Self-eSTEM is Adamaka Ajaelo, whose extraordinary track record at esteemed organizations like Visa, Adobe, and Facebook showcases her unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in STEM. As the program’s Executive Director & Founder, Adamaka's true passion shines through as she empowers BIPOC girls and women in STEM, investing in their dreams and nurturing a sense of belonging. She uses her superpower, coaching, mentorship, to reshape the entire STEM ecosystem.

Alongside Adamaka is Shalonda Tillman, the Chief Operations Officer & Curriculum Lead of Self-eSTEM. As a first-generation college student, HBCU graduate, and dedicated educator in the Oakland Unified School District, Shalonda brings a unique perspective to the organization. Her outstanding achievements, including winning two Teacher of the Year awards within the district, attest to her exceptional abilities to transform educational realities for her students. Shalonda's gift for creating engaging and culturally responsive curricula has resulted in remarkable outcomes. Shalonda’s superpower is her ability to make learning fun and lit ̧ ensuring learners gain knowledge and develop a genuine passion for STEM.

Gervetti Lockett, Ph.D., the Director of Marketing & Digital Content is another invaluable member of our team. Gervetti's strategic thinking and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are integral to Self-eSTEM's mission. Through effective communication and digital content, Gervetti ensures that Self-eSTEM's experiences are accessible and impactful. By crafting messages that resonate with our Innovators, she empowers them to see themselves as capable and deserving contributors in the STEM field.

Karen Trapenberg Frick, Ph.D., the Treasurer & Grants Lead, enriches Self-eSTEM with her expertise in community-based planning. Her understanding of community needs and her research contributions inform the organization's approach to empowerment. By aligning programs with community aspirations, Karen ensures that Self-eSTEM remains responsive and impactful, addressing the unique challenges faced by BIPOC girls and women.

Through ongoing dialogues, focus groups, and feedback sessions, Self-eSTEM listens attentively and incorporates the voices of BIPOC girls and women. The organization recognizes the community's invaluable knowledge, expertise, and lived experiences, understanding that they are essential for shaping impactful and relevant programming. By involving the community in decision-making processes, Self-eSTEM creates a profound sense of ownership and agency among its participants. This collaborative and agile approach fosters a stronger sense of belonging and enables the organization to design programs that meet the community's aspirations while addressing their unique challenges.

The team's demographics reflect a rich diversity, mirroring the communities they serve. With Black/African American/African individuals comprising 42% of the team and Multi-racial/Multi-ethnic individuals accounting for 33%, Self-eSTEM embraces and represents the intersectionality within BIPOC communities. Additionally, with 92% identifying as a female team, the organization is uniquely positioned to understand and address the specific challenges women face in the STEM field. By fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, Self-eSTEM paves the way for a more equitable and representative future in STEM.

Since our inception in 2014, we have engaged over 1,300 BIPOC girls aged 7-17, with 65% from low-income families. We have connected over 150 BIPOC women aged 18 and older with experienced mentors who understand their unique journeys.

Currently, Self-eSTEM engages approximately 250 girls annually.

Self-eSTEM is driven by an unwavering passion to empower BIPOC girls and women in STEM. We seek the financial support of Solve and Tiger Global Ventures to expand our reach and bring about transformative change. We believe that your comprehensive support program will significantly enhance our programming and create a profound and sustainable impact.

Approaching our 10th year in 2024, we celebrate the remarkable strides we've made in fulfilling our mission. We have positively impacted over 1,325 BIPOC girls, with 65% from low-income families, and mentored more than 150 BIPOC women in STEM. With over 1,300 hours of STEM training and a network of 1,000 dedicated volunteers, our commitment is evident.

Our programs have achieved extraordinary outcomes, boasting a 90% attendance rate and a 100% matriculation rate. Notably, 81% of participants have discovered their STEM career identities, inspiring a future where BIPOC girls and women lead in scientific innovation.

To expand our operations and broaden our influence, we are seeking $1 million in funding. These vital resources will propel us through our transformative "Inflection Period," allowing us to become a scalable national STEM engagement model for BIPOC girls and women across America. We believe that Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures' support will be a catalytic investment, enabling the successful launch of our audacious Give Equity to Equity fundraising campaign and ensuring long-term sustainability and maximum impact.

Our $1 million fundraising goal encompasses Program Expansion, Content Creation, and Operational Growth. Program expansion is crucial during our transformative Inflection Period. We aim to develop a tailored digital platform that connects BIPOC girls and women in a virtual space for learning and empowerment. By 2025, our award-winning Early STEM Immersion Program will expand to new cities. Additionally, we will launch an Emerging STEM Leaders Program to support and retain the next generation of BIPOC women entering higher education and STEM careers.

We are embarking on a rebranding journey and codifying our theory of change process to drive effective systems change strategies in STEM. Strategic investments in social media and communications will enable impactful digital campaigns that leverage storytelling and creative media to promote a needed counter-narrative.

This investment will empower us to hire additional staff, grant-writing contractors, and temporary fundraisers, maximizing the potential success of the Give Equity to Equity campaign and our Inflection Period.

Our excitement extends beyond financial support; it encompasses the far-reaching impact of your comprehensive support program. The offered comprehensive needs assessment will provide crucial insights into our strengths and areas for improvement. We eagerly anticipate connecting with your extensive network of resources and partners, embracing collaboration, and exchanging ideas. Joining a peer-to-peer network to foster allyship and partnership is an invaluable opportunity that fuels our unwavering determination for success.

Ultimately, the support and comprehensive services you provide will be the catalyst propelling Self-eSTEM to new heights of reach and impact. Through this powerful partnership, we will revolutionize industries, cultivate scientific innovation, and work tirelessly towards creating the new face and culture of STEM.

Born and raised in Oakland, Adamaka Ajaelo, is a true visionary and beacon of inspiration. Through her work, she is not only transforming the lives of BIPOC girls and women, but also reshaping the fabric of society itself. Her indomitable spirit and dedication to diversity and empowerment make her a STEM pioneer, forging a path toward a more inclusive and equitable future. Adamaka's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, knowledge, and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual to create profound change.

With a keen understanding of the transformative power of investing in women, Adamaka recognizes its multiplier effect on communities and countries. Women who earn an income reinvest a staggering 90% back into their communities, compared to 35% by men. Stemming from this insight, Adamaka envisions a future where BIPOC girls and women fully participate in the economic opportunity afforded to all and become agents of change within their communities. By equipping them with STEM skills and career opportunities, she aims to bridge the socioeconomic divide, fostering growth and empowerment that resonates far beyond individual success.

As the Founding Executive Director of Self-eSTEM, Adamaka is reshaping the face and culture of STEM. Under Adamaka's guidance, Self-eSTEM has made an indelible impact on over 1,300 girls, with 77% of participants identifying as Black/African American. The organization has empowered countless young minds by providing more than 1,300 STEM training hours and nurturing youth self-esteem and engagement in STEM since 2014. Even amidst the challenges of COVID-19, Adamaka and her team adapted their programs to virtual formats, expanding their reach to serve youth across the United States.

Adamaka's groundbreaking work has garnered recognition and acclaim. Her organization made history as the first all-girls, underrepresented minority team to compete in a FIRST Robotics League NorCal qualifier, earning the Judges Awards in 2017. In 2018, they achieved another milestone as the first all-girls, underrepresented minority team to compete in a FIRST Tech Challenge NorCal qualifier. Her tireless efforts have been acknowledged through accolades such as the 2018 Walmart Community Service Award in partnership with the Golden State Warriors and the 2019 Impact Nonprofit of the Year Award from the Coalition of Black Excellence. Congresswoman Barbara Lee also bestowed Honorable Recognition upon Adamaka in 2019 for her contributions to diversifying the tech industry sector at AfroTech. Furthermore, Self-eSTEM received the 2021 Women in Tech Initiative Athena Next Generation Award from UC Berkeley, solidifying its position as an influential force in the STEM community.

Adamaka, is a force to be reckoned with—a dynamic and compassionate leader who tirelessly works to shatter barriers and create a more inclusive and equitable world. Through her unwavering dedication, she paves the way for future generations of BIPOC women to excel, thrive, and make their mark in the fields of STEM. Her journey is an inspiration, serving as a powerful reminder that by embracing our true potential and fighting for justice, we can reshape industries, uplift communities, and create a brighter future for all.

At Self-eSTEM, we lead with heart. We wholeheartedly embrace our Innovators, immersing them in transformative experiences that ignite their self-confidence and fuel their success in STEM. Our values of innovation, creativity, purpose, and equity flow from our unwavering commitment to community and self-love. It is our relentless dedication to building strong connections and fostering self-worth that drives our innovative approach. By seamlessly blending the rigorous disciplines of STEM with the profound impact of love, encouragement, and support, we redefine what is possible – even in the realm of STEM.

What sets Self-eSTEM apart is our holistic and culturally-responsive approach, a team of culturally reflective staff and leaders, a human-centered design philosophy, partnerships built on deep relationships, and an unwavering connection to the community we serve. Our program leads with its heart, engaging and connecting with girls and women in a profound way, harnessing the power of emotional resonance alongside the core competencies of STEM.

At the heart of Self-eSTEM's innovation lies a steadfast commitment to a holistic approach. Self-eSTEM recognizes and celebrates the rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives brought by our Innovators. By employing a culturally relevant educational approach, we foster an inclusive and empowering learning environment that deeply respects and values the unique cultural identities of each Innovator. Our program delves far beneath the surface, fully embracing the knowledge, traditions, languages, and histories of diverse cultural groups, ensuring that we honor and meet our Innovators' individual identities and learning needs. By actively challenging prevailing narratives and systems that marginalize BIPOC girls and women in STEM, Self-eSTEM stands as a beacon of equity and social justice, instilling a profound sense of pride, purpose, and boundless potential in our participants.

Our curriculum fearlessly confronts biased representations within STEM, offering a precise and inclusive understanding of the field. Through dynamic project-based teaching, our program actively disrupts toxic and heteronormative biases that pervade STEM, creating an environment that fuels student engagement, cultivates essential skills, and drives academic achievement. By leveraging our Innovators' unique identities, norms, and cultures, Self-eSTEM's curriculum fosters a deep sense of belonging and unyielding motivation. We cultivate critical thinking, nurture empathy, and bolster self-esteem – all vital elements in preparing BIPOC girls and women for STEM fields, global citizenship, and social elevation. Through our culturally reflective curriculum, Self-eSTEM empowers our Innovators to recognize themselves as capable STEM innovators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers, propelling them to drive global solutions that positively transform their families and communities.

By embracing a holistic and culturally-responsive approach, delivering top-tier training and mentorship, and fortifying networks of BIPOC women in STEM, Self-eSTEM boldly tackles the pressing issues of bias, stereotypes, limited access, and systemic barriers to success. We equip our Innovators with the confidence and representation they need to thrive in STEM fields. At Self-eSTEM, we believe that by transforming the face and culture of STEM, we unlock the immense potential of BIPOC girls and women. From our unwavering dedication, we pave the way for a diverse, inclusive future with innovation at its core.

One-Year Goals:

Out the Gate: Raise $500K in operational support to catalyze program growth.

Goal: Enhance fundraising capacity and diverse revenue streams to grow operations.

Show Up & Out: Leverage Rebranding to grow awareness and partnerships.

Goal: Provide counter-narratives that shift mainstream perceptions of BIPOC girls and women in STEM and inspire them to become changemakers.

Package Our Goods: Codify our practices into toolkits and playbooks to support program adoption and scale approach.

Goal: Develop and refine our high-quality educational programs to further inspire and engage participants, providing hands-on, culturally learning experiences and mentorship opportunities.

Five-Year Goals:

Two by Two: Double the number of participants in under two years (250 to 500 Innovators per year).

Goal: Empower and transform the lives of even more young Innovators by doubling our participant count to 500 per year within two years, ensuring continuous enrollment in various programs activities.

Raised to the Fifth: Secure 5 partnerships with non-educational institutions (i.e., after-school programs, nonprofits) to expand reach and diversify revenue streams.

Goal: Forge strategic alliances with five non-educational institutions, such as after-school programs and nonprofits, to amplify our impact, extend our reach, and diversify our revenue streams, enabling us to create even more opportunities for BIPOC girls and women in STEM.

Amplify 10X: Grow social media subscribers from 5K to 50K through social media, digital platforms, and other channels.

Goal: Harness the power of social media, digital platforms, and other channels to connect with and inspire 50,000 BIPOC girls and women, a significant increase from our current reach of 5,000 individuals. Through compelling content and engaging initiatives, we will amplify our message, fostering a sense of belonging and possibility within the STEM community.

Angel Network: Grow volunteer network from 1,000+ to 25,000, creating the largest BIPOC women and allies volunteer network.

Goal: Cultivate the largest network of BIPOC women and allies volunteers by expanding our base of 1,000+ volunteers to an impressive 25,000. By engaging passionate individuals dedicated to our cause, we will leverage their expertise, enthusiasm, and support to make an even greater impact on the lives of BIPOC girls and women in STEM.

Fortune 500: Engage 500 BIPOC women in STEM over the next five years in professional development, networking, career placement, and scholarship opportunities.

Goal: Empower 500 BIPOC women in STEM through targeted professional development, networking, career placement, and scholarship opportunities over the next five years. By providing the resources and support they need, we will propel these women toward success, fostering a thriving community of BIPOC professionals who drive innovation, representation, and excellence in the STEM fields.

Self-eSTEM is committed to measuring progress towards its goals to effectively address the problem of underrepresentation and inequity faced by BIPOC girls and women in STEM fields. We employ a comprehensive approach that spans multiple categories. By measuring progress in these areas, Self-eSTEM ensures that its initiatives are impactful, meaningful, and responsive to the community’s needs.

Depth (Student Engagement & Success Outcomes):

• Self-eSTEM tracks the retention rates of its participants, specifically focusing on the percentage of BIPOC girls and women who remain engaged in STEM education and pursue STEM careers after completing the program. Key Stat: 60% of our Innovators return year-over-year.
• Self-eSTEM measures the academic performance of its participants, monitoring improvements in grades, test scores, and overall academic success. Key Stat: 100% of participants continue to next grade level.
• Self-eSTEM assesses the self-esteem and empowerment levels of its participants through surveys and qualitative feedback, aiming to foster a sense of confidence, purpose, and possibility among BIPOC girls and women in STEM. Key Stat: 80% stated our program helped them feel more confident to do STEM activities.

Breadth (Programming):

• Self-eSTEM tracks the number of participants engaged in its various programs and initiatives, aiming to expand its reach to serve a larger and more diverse population of BIPOC girls and women. Key Stat: 93% of participants are interested in returning to annual STEM Exploration Camp.
• Self-eSTEM conducts regular evaluations of its programming to assess effectiveness, gather feedback from participants, and identify areas for improvement. This includes analyzing program content, delivery methods, and participant satisfaction. Key Stat: 95% stated they learned something new from our program.

Reach (Models & Number and Types of Students):

• Self-eSTEM measures its progress in expanding its reach by tracking participation in our various program offerings. Key Stat: 67% of Innovators participate in our Weekend STEM Engagement Program.
• Self-eSTEM tracks the demographics of its participants, ensuring that a wide range of BIPOC girls and women are represented, including those from underrepresented communities and diverse cultural backgrounds. Key Stat: 30% of our Innovators are first generation students.

Capabilities (Organizational Development):

• Fundraising and Revenue Growth: Self-eSTEM measures its success in raising funds to support program expansion, scholarships, and financial aid programs. The organization tracks the amount of funding raised and compares it to its financial goals. Key Stat: Revenue increased by 75% over the last five years.
• Staff Training and Development: The organization invests in the training and development of its staff and mentors to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to support BIPOC girls and women in their STEM journeys effectively. Self-eSTEM measures the impact of these training initiatives through qualitative feedback and improved program outcomes. Key Stat: At least 10 hours of annual professional development training for staff.

By actively measuring progress in these categories, Self-eSTEM can assess the effectiveness of its programs, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to continually enhance its impact. 

Self-eSTEM's Simplified Logic Model illustrates how our inputs, activities, and short-term outcomes lead to long-term outcomes within the STEM ecosystem, including education, employment, and industry-wide changes. It showcases the organization's comprehensive approach to fostering curiosity, skills, belonging, and empowerment in BIPOC girls and women, ultimately making a positive impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM.

Inputs: the resources, assets, and factors that are necessary to execute our mission

• People: A diverse team of staff, contractors, and volunteers who reflect the socio-demographics and lived experiences of the youth served.
• Curriculum: Culturally Thriving Learning Model (CTLM)TM that aligns with state and federal educational standards and guidelines, while ensuring our Innovators develop critical self-efficacy skills
• Technology and Equipment: Laptop computers, robotics equipment, professional software, and creative/art materials.
• Partners: Corporations and nonprofits providing mentorship opportunities and technical skills training.
• Support: In-kind labor from universities, corporations, and community volunteers, as well as sponsorship/funding from corporations and foundations. Facility spaces are provided by universities, K-12 schools, nonprofits, and community centers.

Activities: the specific actions and interventions that we must undertake to bring about the desired outcomes

• Education: Developing high-quality, culturally relevant STEM learning curriculum to accelerate learning and delivering it through our growing educational programming.
• Career: Curating ongoing interactive networking experiences with STEM professionals and providing stories of overlooked women in STEM careers.
• Community Support: Providing academic advising for caretakers, measuring program impacts through mixed methods, and conducting professional development for educators (future state).

Short-term Outcomes: the immediate changes or results that occur as a direct result of our work.

For Participants:

• Sparking and increasing curiosity, engagement, and positive attitudes toward STEM.
• Strengthening the Self-eSTEM growth mindset and lifelong learning.
• Maintaining and enhancing academic achievement in STEM subject areas.
• Developing collaborative, problem-solving, entrepreneurship and computational skills.
• Increasing knowledge in robotics, coding and real-world applications.
• Developing a sense of belonging and resilience to continue STEM education and career pursuits.
• Establishing and solidifying STEM career identities.
• Increase college graduation rates and entrance in STEM career fields.
• Increased retention of BIPOC women in STEM fields.
• Increased wage earnings of BIPOC women.

For Communities:

• Increasing family and community awareness of navigating the STEM talent pipeline.
• Providing educators and policymakers with knowledge of the importance of culturally relevant curriculum.
• Increasing educators' understanding of guiding students through project-based STEM activities.

Long-term Outcomes: the ultimate goals or desired changes that we seek:

In Education:

• Increasing the number of overlooked students selecting and completing STEM majors in college.
• Influencing STEM education policies to require more culturally relevant curriculum.

In Employment:

• Increasing the number of individuals entering, remaining, and excelling in STEM careers.
• Improving the socio-economic outcomes of women and their communities.
• Reducing STEM job vacancies.
• Increasing racial justice, inclusivity, and belonging within the STEM workforce.

Industry-wide:

• Unlocking hidden product/service innovation by leveraging diverse views and lived experiences.
• Changing and broadening the face and culture of STEM innovation.

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At Self-eSTEM, we are powered by an incredible network of volunteers and contractors who bring their expertise and passion to our organization. With a dedicated team of five contractors, we cover various essential activities, including program operations, social/digital media & communications, grant writing, administrative tasks, and accounting.

In addition to our contractors, we are fortunate to have a robust volunteer network that forms the backbone of our organization. With over 1,000 passionate BIPOC women and allies, our volunteers are instrumental in making a meaningful impact on the lives of the girls and women we serve. 

Over the past nine years, the Self-eSTEM team has been dedicated to developing and delivering our innovative solution to address the underrepresentation and inequity faced by BIPOC girls and women in STEM. It all began with the launch of our free, one-week STEM Exploration Camp, welcoming over 60 girls and ignited their passion for STEM.

Building upon the camp’s success, we expanded our program to include monthly STEM Engagement workshops and a weekly after-school Robotics program. These initiatives have collectively reached and engaged 1,325 girls, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue STEM education and careers.

Self-eSTEM is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we have implemented a comprehensive approach to dismantle systemic racism and oppression in the STEM education and career development spaces. From our curriculum to our organizational structure, we strive to create a truly inclusive and empowering environment for BIPOC individuals.

Our curriculum is designed to connect with the cultural and linguistic histories of our Innovators. We incorporate project-based activities that allow for discussions on current and historical events affecting their communities, fostering a sense of relevance and ownership over their learning. By integrating culturally-sustaining teaching practices, we challenge the dominance of Eurocentric perspectives and create space for diverse voices and experiences.

As an organization founded and led by Black women, we believe in leading by example. Our core values, including community and self-love, innovation, creativity, purpose, and equity, guide our work and reflect our personal beliefs. We aim to bolster the self-esteem and confidence of our young innovators, encouraging their curiosity and creative genius. Through our lived experiences, we understand the importance of representation and provide STEM opportunities that are tailored to the needs and aspirations of the BIPOC community.

To drive systemic change, we are actively collaborating with our parents to establish an advocacy group. This group will work towards ensuring high-quality, culturally-sustaining STEM education programs within public school settings. By focusing on accountability and advocating for equity, we aim to create lasting impact beyond our own programs.

Internally, we have taken steps to increase diversity and foster an inclusive work environment. Our team has undergone training on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging, allowing us to deepen our understanding and practice of these principles. Our Executive Director has also participated in training programs specifically focused on enhancing racial equity within organizations. Additionally, our board has been diversifying, with the addition of board members from the Asian/Pacific Islander ethnicity group.

To track our effectiveness, we actively collect data through student surveys, seeking feedback on the relevance, engagement, and alignment of our programs with their interests. We also engage in annual board off-site workshops, where we gather data on board members' perceptions of our work environment as an inclusive space. These dialogues help us identify areas for improvement and acknowledge what is working well. We utilize assessments like the Intercultural Development Inventory and learnings from our racial equity training to ensure the sustainability of our inclusive working environment.

Self-eSTEM's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is embedded in our DNA. We recognize that true progress requires ongoing reflection, learning, and action. By continuously striving to dismantle systemic barriers and fostering an inclusive culture, we are dedicated to creating a future where all BIPOC individuals can thrive in STEM and contribute their unique perspectives to drive innovation and change.

Self-eSTEM's business model is innovative and goes beyond traditional STEM activity programs. Our approach is centered around providing high-quality, culturally responsive STEM curriculum and advanced learning opportunities to close the STEM workforce gap and empower BIPOC girls and women.

We nurture the natural curiosity of our participants and recognize their brilliance and inherent talent for embracing new technology and knowledge. Our program equips them with the confidence, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive and remain within the STEM industry. To achieve this, we offer access to interactive events, such as field trips to conferences, universities, museums, and corporate campuses. We also provide educational and career readiness workshops curated specifically for BIPOC girls and women, along with project-based teaching and mentorship from BIPOC women and allies.

To ensure our Innovators have the necessary tools for personal and professional development, we provide them with free access to quality resources, tools, equipment, and materials. This includes computers, software, science kits, meals, role models/mentors and other learning materials. We have cultivated partnerships with corporations, foundations, and organizations that share our mission and values, who provide us with financial and resource support through grants, donations, and volunteers. This support allows us to expand our reach, enhance program offerings, and increase our impact in the communities we serve.

Our program delivery primarily takes place in person, leveraging the facilities of our partners and sponsors. This provides our Innovators with exposure to a world beyond their immediate communities. However, during the global pandemic, we successfully shifted our program's service delivery to virtual formats while maintaining an inclusive and highly engaging learning environment.

Self-eSTEM is crucial because many of our Innovators have limited or no exposure to culturally relevant STEM learning. We address the prevailing low expectations set by educators and administrators by providing a supportive environment that breaks down gender and racial stereotypes. Our program empowers girls to challenge societal norms, enhances student engagement, develops skills, and improves academic achievement. Increasing the gender and racial diversity of the STEM ecosystem is vital for fostering culturally competent, empathetic, and high-quality solutions to significant societal challenges.

We understand the importance of breaking down barriers for BIPOC students across all stages of their education journey. Many elementary schools do not teach science, and BIPOC students often lack access to hands-on, culturally relevant STEM content. As students enter high school and begin considering career options, many girls, low-income individuals, and BIPOC students choose to opt out of STEM. Self-eSTEM empowers BIPOC girls and women to envision and actualize themselves as STEM educators, engineers, programmers, and mathematicians, enabling them to emerge as trailblazing industry leaders and mentors. By offering these overlooked girls and women equitable opportunities to pursue - and thrive - in STEM fields, we serve as a catalyst for social-economic mobility and security. Our partnerships with organizations like Tiger Global Impact Ventures and MIT Solve will further expand our reach and amplify our impact on society.

To sustain and expand our work, Self-eSTEM has developed a multifaceted approach to generating revenue. Over the past nine years, we have gained support from an increasing number of funders and volunteers who share our vision of empowering and recognizing the brilliance of BIPOC girls and women.

We began our journey by mobilizing a dedicated group of volunteers who designed and delivered our first summer camp. With personal donations from our founder and core volunteers, we successfully launched Self-eSTEM and enrolled a cohort of BIPOC girls in a transformative summer camp in 2015. We operated on a shoestring budget, and were able to deliver impactful programming to the girls in Oakland. This experience instilled in us the ethos of maximizing resources, leveraging relationships, and amplifying our impact through strategic partnerships—a principle that still guides us today.

As our programs expanded, we recognized the need for a sustainable infrastructure, prompting us to invest in building our fundraising capacity. Over the past nine years, the number and size of gifts from our philanthropic partners have grown significantly, with 40 different funders supporting our work since 2016 and the  (starting with our first 5 in 2016). Our average grant size also grew 246% (from $6,800 to $23,500) over the same period. Our plan for the future is to continue this growth trajectory by targeting a 20% increase in the number of funders and a 50% increase in the average grant size over the next three years.

However, we are aware of the competitive landscape of nonprofit organizations in the Bay Area, and securing philanthropic support is not guaranteed. To enhance our chances of success, we have made substantial investments in an ongoing rebranding campaign. Additionally, we aim to boost our fundraising capacity by acquiring the necessary skills and capabilities to effectively communicate our story, demonstrate our impact, and meet the needs and expectations of our philanthropic stakeholders.

In addition to grants, we are committed to nurturing and expanding our network of alumni, volunteers, and supporters who have been instrumental in our growth. Currently, we have a strong base of 2,000 alumni, volunteers, and supporters, with 10% contributing a total $35,000 in small gift donations last year. Our goal is to continue cultivating this network, aiming to expand our alumni, volunteer, and supporter base, increase the percentage of donors from this network to 40%, and raise the overall annual donor resources to $100,000.

Furthermore, in 2022 we launched our community partnership strategy, which involves leveraging a fee-for-service model to collaborate with schools, nonprofits, and other community organizations. Through this strategy, we can diversify our revenue streams while continuing to provide our programming free of charge to participants. This approach allows us to extend the reach of our Culturally-Thriving Learning Model and generate sustainable income.

By implementing this comprehensive approach, including sustained donations and grants, cultivating our network, exploring service contracts, and leveraging community partnerships, we aim to ensure the financial stability and growth of Self-eSTEM.

In the dynamic and competitive landscape of nonprofit organizations in the Bay Area, we have been incredibly fortunate to secure a range of significant grants over the past nine years. While the following list represents just a portion of the extensive support we have received, these key grants have been instrumental in driving our mission forward. The total contributions from these grants amount to $632,000, and include:

• Warriors Community Foundation: $197,000 (4 Gifts)

• Silicon Valley Community Foundation: $80,000 

• Comcast: $75,000 (2 Gifts)

• Sharks Foundation: $40,000 (3 Gifts)

• LLH/LHM Foundation: $35,000 (2 Gifts)

• Visa: $25,000 (3 Gifts)

• Salesforce: $25,000

• City of Oakland CARES Grant: $25,000

• Cisco: $20,000 (2 Gifts)

• Kaiser: $20,000 (2 Gifts)

• Adobe: $20,000

• HP Community Foundation: $15,000

• California COVID-19 Grant Relief: $15,000

• Oportun: $10,000

• Workday: $10,000

• Kapor Center for Social Impact: $10,000 (2 Gifts)

• Nuro: $5,000

• Wells Fargo: $5,000

• Individual: $5,000+ (5 Gifts)

As our rebranding efforts gain momentum, we believe the opportunity presented by Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can provide Self-eSTEM on a solid foundation as we embark on our extraordinary journey ahead. The vital resources provided by Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures will serve as a catalyst, propelling us through our transformative “Inflection Period” and position Self-eSTEM as a national powerhouse.

Through this collaboration, we not only aim to achieve long-term sustainability, but also unleash the full potential of our mission. We are confident in our ability to create a profound and lasting impact on future generations. Together, we can pave the way for a future where the brilliance and contributions of BIPOC girls and women in STEM are fully recognized, valued, and embraced.