Skysisters: Inspiring Girls to Fly High with STEM

Problem Statement:

Our specific problem is the underrepresentation of minority girls in STEM fields, with a particular focus on the emerging field of drone technology. We aim to address the gender equity challenge within the STEM field by providing targeted support and opportunities to empower minority girls to pursue STEM education and careers.

The Scale of the Problem:
In the communities of Trenton and Philadelphia, the underrepresentation of minority girls in STEM is a pressing issue. According to local and national statistics, the scale of the problem is significant:

Underrepresentation: Minority girls, especially African American and Latina girls, are significantly underrepresented in STEM fields. According to the National Science Foundation, women account for only 28% of the STEM workforce, and this percentage is even lower for minority women.

Limited Exposure: Many minority girls have limited exposure to STEM fields, including emerging technologies like drones. This lack of exposure restricts their awareness of the possibilities and potential career paths available in these fields.

Gender Bias and Stereotypes: Gender biases and stereotypes persist, influencing girls' self-perception and shaping societal expectations regarding their capabilities and interests in STEM subjects. These biases contribute to a lack of confidence and engagement among minority girls.

Access to Resources: Limited access to resources, mentors, and role models in STEM fields further hinders minority girls' opportunities for exploration and growth. This lack of support perpetuates the underrepresentation of minority girls in STEM.

Factors Contributing to the Problem:
Educational Disparities: Disparities in educational resources and quality affect minority communities disproportionately, limiting the opportunities available for minority girls to engage in STEM education.

Lack of Representation: The absence of diverse role models and mentors in STEM fields can hinder the aspirations and confidence of minority girls, making it more challenging for them to envision themselves in these careers.

Limited Career Pathways: Emerging fields like drone technology present significant career opportunities, including drone operation for emergency situations. However, the lack of representation and training programs specific to these fields further limits the inclusion of minority girls.

  The scale of the problem in the communities of Trenton and Philadelphia is significant. It affects a substantial number of minority girls who may be missing out on opportunities and experiences that could shape their academic and professional futures. Through our program, we aim to empower a considerable number of minority girls, expanding their horizons, boosting their confidence, and fostering gender equity in the STEM fields.

Additionally, our program recognizes the increasing demand for drone operators in various industries, including emergency situations. By training girls to use drones for such scenarios, we contribute to meeting this demand while also addressing the underrepresentation of girls in STEM.

Our Solution's Contribution: With our program, "Skysisters: Inspiring Girls to Fly High with STEM", we directly address the factors contributing to the underrepresentation of minority girls in STEM. By providing hands-on learning experiences, mentorship from women in STEM, career exploration, and exposure to emerging technologies like drones, we aim to inspire and equip minority girls to pursue STEM education and careers

Our solution is a program designed to address the underrepresentation of minority girls in STEM fields, specifically focusing on the communities of Trenton and Philadelphia. Our program offers a comprehensive approach to empower and inspire these girls by providing hands-on learning experiences, mentorship from women in STEM, career exploration, and exposure to emerging technologies like drones.

The program works by engaging minority girls in a series of workshops, training sessions, and interactive activities. They will learn about the fundamentals of drone technology, including flight operations, safety protocols, and data collection. Through practical exercises, they will gain hands-on experience in piloting drones and utilizing them for various applications.

Our program also emphasizes mentorship, connecting the girls with successful women working in STEM fields. These mentors will share their experiences, provide guidance, and serve as role models, inspiring the girls to pursue STEM education and careers.

By exposing minority girls to drones and the opportunities they present, we aim to broaden their horizons and boost their confidence in STEM fields. Furthermore, we believe that fostering gender equity in STEM is crucial, and our program contributes to this goal by empowering a significant number of minority girls.

In addition to the social impact, our program recognizes the practical aspect of drone technology. There is a growing demand for skilled drone operators in various industries, particularly in emergency situations. By training girls to use drones for such scenarios, we not only contribute to meeting this demand but also address the gender gap in STEM fields.

Overall, "SkySisters is a multifaceted program that combines hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to emerging technologies. Through our efforts, we aim to inspire, equip, and empower minority girls, opening doors to exciting opportunities in STEM fields.

Our solution is designed to serve and directly impact the lives of minority girls in the communities of Trenton and Philadelphia. These girls, typically from underrepresented backgrounds, face significant barriers to pursuing education and careers in STEM fields. By understanding their needs and engaging them throughout the development process, our solution aims to bring about meaningful improvements in their lives.

The target population consists of minority girls in the age range of 12 to 18 years old, who have limited exposure to STEM education and career opportunities. Many of them come from low-income families and face systemic challenges such as gender bias, lack of role models, and limited access to resources.

To understand their needs, we have undertaken comprehensive research and conducted focus groups and surveys within the target communities. We have collaborated with local schools, community organizations, and families to gather insights and gain a deep understanding of the unique challenges these girls face.

Engagement of the target population is a key aspect of our approach. We actively involve the girls in the development process by seeking their input, listening to their experiences, and valuing their perspectives. Their feedback helps shape the program's curriculum, activities, and mentorship initiatives to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

Our solution addresses their needs in several ways:

1. Hands-on Learning: We provide experiential learning opportunities, enabling the girls to engage directly with drone technology. By gaining practical skills in piloting drones, understanding data collection, and exploring applications, they develop a strong foundation in STEM disciplines.

2. Mentorship: We connect the girls with successful women in STEM fields who serve as mentors. These mentors share their personal journeys, provide guidance, and offer support, inspiring the girls to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles. 

3. Career Exploration: Through career exploration sessions, we introduce the girls to a wide range of STEM fields and highlight the diverse opportunities available. This exposure broadens their horizons and encourages them to consider paths they may not have previously considered.

4. Community Engagement: We actively involve the local community in our solution. By collaborating with schools, community organizations, and families, we create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures the girls' interest in STEM. This engagement helps address systemic barriers and provides a network of support for their long-term success.

The impact of our solution on the lives of these girls is significant. By empowering them with STEM knowledge, skills, and confidence, we open doors to future educational and career opportunities.

The program instills a sense of self-belief, resilience, and empowerment in the girls. They develop problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, and a growth mindset that transcends beyond STEM disciplines, positively impacting their overall personal and academic development.

Ultimately, our solution aims to create a generation of girls who are equipped, inspired, and empowered to pursue STEM education and careers. By directly addressing their needs and providing the necessary support, we strive to uplift their lives, enhance their future prospects, and contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society.

Our team, led by Gabriela Timothy and co-led by Captain Joseph Deacon, is well-positioned to design and deliver the "SkySisters: Empowering Minority Girls in Drone Technology" solution to the target population. While academic and professional credentials are not the sole focus here, it's important to note that our team members have relevant expertise and experience in education, STEM fields, and community engagement. However, what sets us apart is our proximity to and representation of the communities we aim to serve.

Gabriela Timothy, the project leader, is an educator and education consultant who has dedicated her career to promoting holistic learning for diverse learners. Her experience in designing and implementing STEAM programs for K-12 students, specifically targeting underrepresented students, demonstrates her commitment to addressing educational disparities. Her ongoing pursuit of an Ed.D in Interdisciplinary Education Leadership further strengthens her understanding of effective educational approaches and pedagogies.

Captain Joseph Deacon, as the co-lead, contributes valuable insights and experience as a minority fire captain and a certified drone operator. His firsthand knowledge of emergency situations and expertise in drone operations make him an ideal team member to guide the technical aspects of the program. Captain Deacon's understanding of the challenges faced by minority communities, combined with his dedication to STEM education, strengthens the team's ability to relate to the target population and design relevant solutions.

As co-founders of The Diverse Learner Foundation, our team has established a track record of providing educational and STEM programs to underserved communities. This experience has allowed us to develop strong relationships with partner organizations, schools, and universities that are vital to the success of our solution. Partnering with institutions such as TCNJ, SJU, Princeton University, the City of Trenton, and the School District of Philadelphia ensures that our solution is rooted in the local context and benefits from the expertise and resources available within these communities.

Understanding the needs of the target population is central to our approach. Through extensive research, focus groups, surveys, and ongoing engagement with community members, schools, and organizations, we have gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by minority girls in pursuing STEM education and careers. This deep understanding of their needs guides the design and implementation of our solution.

Engagement with the communities we serve is a fundamental aspect of our approach. We actively involve the target population in the development process by seeking their input, valuing their ideas, and incorporating their perspectives. 

This participatory approach ensures that the program resonates with the girls, addresses their specific needs, and aligns with their aspirations. Ultimately, our goal is to create a program that is shaped by the communities it serves and leads to meaningful and sustainable impact.

 We are committed to creating a program that not only addresses the needs of minority girls in Trenton and Philadelphia but also empowers them to excel in STEM fields, thereby transforming their lives and contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society

We are applying to the Challenge because we believe it aligns perfectly with our mission to empower minority girls in STEM through the "SkySisters: Empowering Minority Girls in Drone Technology" program. While raising funds is not our sole goal, we recognize that financial support plays a crucial role in scaling our impact and reaching more girls in the communities of Trenton and Philadelphia. However, we also acknowledge that there are other barriers that hinder our progress, and we hope that Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can help us overcome them.

1. Financial Barriers:

   • Lack of resources: As a nonprofit organization, securing funding for program implementation, materials, equipment, and operational expenses can be challenging. The financial support provided through the Challenge can help us overcome these barriers and ensure the sustainability and scalability of our program.

2. Technical Barriers:

   • Access to technology: Drones and related equipment can be costly, making it difficult for us to provide hands-on learning experiences to a larger number of girls. Support from Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can help us access affordable and reliable technology solutions, enabling us to reach more girls and deliver high-quality STEM education.

3. Legal Barriers:

   • Regulatory compliance: Operating drones involves adherence to specific regulations and legal requirements. Navigating these legal frameworks can be complex and time-consuming. Expert guidance and legal support from the Challenge partners can assist us in ensuring compliance, minimizing potential obstacles, and maximizing the impact of our program.

4. Cultural Barriers:

   • Gender biases and stereotypes: Deep-seated cultural norms and biases often discourage girls from pursuing STEM fields. By participating in the Support Program, we can access resources and guidance on designing culturally sensitive and inclusive initiatives that challenge stereotypes and foster gender equity in STEM.

5. Market Barriers:

   • Limited access to networks and partnerships: Building collaborations with schools, universities, and industry partners is crucial to expanding our reach and impact. The network of resource partners offered through the Support Program can provide valuable connections, enabling us to forge strategic partnerships and leverage existing networks to scale our program effectively.

By participating in the 6-month Support Program, we hope to benefit from the comprehensive needs assessment, learning and development modules, and individual/group leadership coaching. These resources will help us refine our business model, theory of change, and scaling plans. Moreover, the opportunity to engage with a peer-to-peer network of like-minded organizations will create a community of practice where we can learn from each other, share best practices, and collectively strive for gender equity in STEM.

Our motivation to apply for the Challenge goes beyond seeking funds. We are excited about the prospect of accessing a wide range of support, expertise, and resources that can enhance our program's impact. We are eager to learn, grow, and collaborate with Solve, Tiger Global Impact Ventures, and other participating organizations to create lasting change in the lives of minority girls in STEM.

Our Team Lead, Gabriela Timothy, is deeply connected to the communities in which our project is based. Through her various initiatives and roles, she has established a strong presence and made a positive impact on the educational landscape in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Gabriela's connection to the community began in 2017 when she was a classroom teacher. Recognizing the unique needs of her students, she started Learned Potential to provide additional support and resources to her classroom and community. This initiative allowed her to work closely with students, parents, and fellow educators, gaining firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the local educational ecosystem.

In 2021, Gabriela co-founded The Diverse Learner Foundation along with Fire Captain Joseph Deacon, further strengthening her ties to the community in Philadelphia and New Jersey. Through this organization, she has been able to extend her reach and provide educational programs and consultation services to schools in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The foundation's focus on supporting diverse learners reflects Gabriela's commitment to inclusivity and equity in education.

As part of The Diverse Learner Foundation's efforts, Gabriela and her team launched "Potential Space" in 2022, a collaborative learning space in New Jersey. This space serves as a hub for community engagement and learning, providing programs and courses that benefit K-12 students and their communities. By creating this physical space, Gabriela has fostered a direct connection to the local community and has been able to understand the specific needs and aspirations of the students and families she serves.

In 2023, "Potential Space" will expand to Philadelphia, further extending network and community connections. By establishing co-learning spaces in both New Jersey and Philadelphia, Gabriela ensures that her work is inclusive and reaches a wider range of students and communities, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across different geographical areas.

Through her initiatives, Gabriela Timothy has established a strong network of educators, community leaders, and families. Her ongoing engagement with these stakeholders allows her to stay connected to the needs of the community and ensures that the "SkySisters" project remains relevant and impactful. Gabriela's proximity to the communities she serves gives her valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by minority girls in STEM education, enabling her to design and deliver solutions that resonate with their specific needs.

Overall, Gabriela's deep connection to the community, her involvement in education programs and consultation services, and her establishment of collaborative learning spaces demonstrate her dedication to serving and empowering students and families in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. This proximity and community involvement make her the right person to lead our project and ensure its meaningful impact on the lives of minority girls in STEM.

Our business model is centered around providing value to the populations we serve, focusing on both impact and revenue generation. Our key customers are the minority girls in the communities of Trenton and Philadelphia, as well as educational institutions, corporate sponsors, and licensing partners who support our mission.

Our primary product is the "SkySisters" program, which offers a comprehensive set of services designed to inspire, educate, and equip girls in STEM. These services include:

• Hands-on Learning Experiences: We provide girls with opportunities to engage in practical activities involving drones and other emerging technologies. Through workshops, training sessions, and immersive experiences, we enable them to gain valuable STEM skills and build confidence in their abilities.
• Mentorship from Women in STEM: We connect girls with successful women in STEM fields who serve as mentors and role models. These mentors offer guidance, support, and encouragement, sharing their own experiences and providing insights into the possibilities of a STEM career.
• Career Exploration: We expose girls to diverse STEM career paths, showcasing the vast range of opportunities available to them. By organizing career panels, site visits, and networking events, we help them envision their future in STEM and understand the steps required to achieve their goals.
• Exposure to Emerging Technologies: Our program introduces girls to cutting-edge technologies like drones, AI, VR/AR fostering curiosity and excitement. By demonstrating the real-world applications of these technologies, we spark their interest and inspire them to explore STEM further.

The girls we serve want and need these products and services for several reasons:

1. Empowerment and Self-Confidence: By participating in our program, girls gain a sense of empowerment, this boosts their self-confidence and encourages them to pursue their passions without limitations.
2. Access to STEM Opportunities: Many minority girls in underserved communities lack access to quality STEM education and resources. Our program bridges this gap, providing them with hands-on experiences, mentorship, and exposure to emerging technologies that they would otherwise not have access to.
3. Representation and Role Models: Seeing successful women in STEM who share similar backgrounds and experiences can be a powerful motivator. Our program connects girls with female mentors who can inspire and guide them along their STEM journey.

In terms of revenue generation, we have a multi-faceted approach:

• Grants and Funding: We actively pursue grants from foundations, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations that align with our mission to support the implementation and expansion of our program, covering operational costs, materials, and instructor salaries.
• Partnerships and Corporate Sponsorship: We engage with corporate sponsors who recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM. 
• Licensing and Training: We offer licensing opportunities for organizations and individuals who want to implement our program in their communities. These partners pay a licensing fee and receive comprehensive training, curriculum materials, and ongoing support. 

By combining these revenue streams with our commitment to delivering high-quality services and driving meaningful impact, we ensure the sustainability and scalability of our program, enabling us to expand our reach and empower a growing number of minority girls in STEM.

Our plan for financial sustainability revolves around diversifying our revenue streams and building strong partnerships. We aim to create a sustainable funding model that covers our expected expenses and ensures the continuity of our work in empowering minority girls in STEM.

1. Grants and Donations: We will actively pursue grants from foundations, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations that align with our mission. We will leverage our track record, partnerships, and program impact to secure sustained donations and grants. These funds will support our operational costs, program development, outreach efforts, and expansion into new communities.

2. Corporate Sponsorship and Philanthropic Partnerships: We will engage with corporate sponsors who share our commitment to diversity and inclusion in STEM. By forming strategic partnerships, we will secure financial support and in-kind resources. Additionally, we will explore philanthropic partnerships with individuals and organizations interested in supporting STEM education for underrepresented girls. These partnerships will contribute to our financial sustainability while aligning with the values and goals of our sponsors and partners.

3. Fee-based Programs and Services: We will develop fee-based programs and services to generate revenue. For example, we may offer specialized training workshops, professional development courses for educators, or consulting services for schools and organizations interested in implementing STEM initiatives. By leveraging our expertise and the success of our program, we can generate revenue while extending our impact beyond direct service delivery.

4. Licensing and Franchise Opportunities: As our program gains recognition and demonstrates its effectiveness, we will explore licensing and franchise opportunities. Schools, organizations, and individuals interested in implementing our program in their communities can enter into licensing agreements, paying a fee to access our curriculum, training, and ongoing support. This revenue stream will enable us to scale our impact by reaching more girls across different geographical locations.

5. Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: We will actively seek partnerships and collaborations with educational institutions, school districts, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. These partnerships can lead to service contracts, joint funding applications, and shared resources. By combining efforts and leveraging complementary strengths, we can access additional funding sources and expand our reach.

6. Fundraising Events and Campaigns: We will organize fundraising events and campaigns to engage the broader community in supporting our cause. These activities may include charity galas, crowdfunding campaigns, and corporate sponsorship drives. Such initiatives will help raise awareness, generate donations, and build a network of supporters who are invested in our mission.

By combining these revenue streams and continuously seeking new opportunities for funding and partnerships, we aim to achieve financial sustainability. We will carefully manage our expenses, ensuring that our revenue covers expected costs while allowing for program growth and expansion. As we establish a strong financial foundation, we can continue our mission to empower minority girls in STEM and make a lasting impact on their lives and the communities we serve.

We have achieved significant success in our plan to achieve financial sustainability through various partnerships and revenue-generation efforts. While specific financial details may not be publicly shareable, we can provide examples of our successful partnerships and revenue-generating activities:

• Fee-based Programs and Services: We have successfully generated revenue through fee-based programs and services. By offering specialized training workshops, professional development courses for educators, and consulting services, we have been able to generate revenue while leveraging our expertise and the success of our program. These activities contribute to our financial sustainability while expanding our impact beyond direct service delivery.
• Corporate Sponsorship: We have formed strategic partnerships with corporate sponsors who recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM. Some of these organizations include Goldman Sachs. These sponsors have provided financial support and in-kind resources, enabling us to enhance the quality of our program and reach a larger number of girls.
• Fundraising Events and Campaigns: We have organized successful fundraising events and campaigns that have engaged the broader community in supporting our cause. These activities have raised awareness about the importance of gender equity in STEM and generated donations from individuals, businesses, and community organizations. The support and financial contributions from these events have played a crucial role in sustaining our operations and expanding our reach.
• Grants and Funding: We are in the process of securing grants from reputable foundations and government agencies that are aligned with our mission. These grants have provided crucial financial support to implement and expand our program, covering operational costs, materials, and instructor salaries. The recognition and support from these funders validate the value and impact of our work.
• Licensing and Franchise Opportunities: We are also in the process of entering into licensing agreements with schools, organizations, and individuals interested in implementing our program in their communities. These partnerships will provide a revenue stream through licensing fees, allowing us to scale our impact by reaching more girls across different geographical locations. The licensing model not only generates revenue but also spreads our mission and impact to new areas.

While these examples highlight our successful efforts in achieving financial sustainability, it's important to note that our commitment to financial sustainability is an ongoing process. We continually explore new funding opportunities, seek strategic partnerships, and adapt our revenue generation strategies to ensure the long-term viability of our program. By diversifying our revenue streams and actively pursuing financial sustainability, we are confident in our ability to sustain our mission and make a lasting impact on the lives of minority girls in STEM.