Bridging the Gender Gap in Space: KCL UN Women UK Hosts Inspiring Panel

On Thursday, October 17, 2023, KCL UN Women UK, in collaboration with Science Mind Magazine, KCL Space, and KCL Women in Engineering, held a groundbreaking panel discussion focused on the vital topic of women in the space industry. This event marked a significant step in addressing the gender disparity that persists in this traditionally male-dominated field, showcasing the achievements and aspirations of women who are actively working to change the narrative.

Empowering Women at KCL

Founded in 2023, KCL UN Women UK aims to empower women at King’s College London (KCL) by fostering confidence in their abilities and enhancing their job prospects. The society aligns itself with the objectives of the UN Women UK office, advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment on campus. The panel on women in space was a testament to their commitment to these ideals, featuring four remarkable women who are making strides in the space sector.

A Lack of Representation

Despite advancements in gender equality, the space industry continues to grapple with a significant lack of female representation. The panel featured four inspiring speakers: Dr. Mindy Howard, Prof. Yang Gao, Linda Ngozwana, and Julia Balm. Each of these women shared their unique experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of mentorship, resilience, and the need for more women in leadership roles within the space sector.

“See You in Space” – Dr. Mindy Howard

Dr. Mindy Howard, an astronaut trainer and a candidate for NASA’s astronaut program, opened the discussion with her compelling journey. She founded Inner Space Training, a psychological training program designed for commercial astronauts, and established the Cosmic Girls Foundation to empower young girls in STEM. Dr. Howard’s own experiences of being the only girl in her Ph.D. class at Eindhoven University of Technology fueled her passion for helping girls pursue careers in space. She emphasized the importance of representation, stating, “More girls get their dreams crushed than boys do.” Her mantra, “See you in space,” serves as a rallying cry for aspiring female astronauts.

Addressing the Gender Gap Through Mentorship – Prof. Yang Gao

Prof. Yang Gao, a professor of robotics at KCL and head of the Centre for Robotics Research, shared her insights on the importance of mentorship in bridging the gender gap. With over two decades of experience in developing space robotics, Prof. Gao is actively involved in real-world space missions. She mentors aspiring women in her field through the UN’s Space4Women initiative, emphasizing that mentorship is crucial for increasing female representation in the space industry.

“Know That Your Work Matters” – Linda Ngozwana

Linda Ngozwana, a systems engineer and co-founder of Moonshot Africa, spoke passionately about her mission to inspire the next generation of African rocket scientists. Having faced her own challenges with self-esteem, Ngozwana encourages women to advocate for themselves and pursue opportunities, even when they feel underqualified. Her empowering message, “Know that your work matters, and be bold because your voice matters,” resonated deeply with attendees, urging them to recognize their worth in the industry.

It’s Never Too Late for a Career Change – Julia Balm

Julia Balm, a research associate and Ph.D. candidate at the Freeman Air and Space Institute, shared her unconventional journey into the space sector. With a background in ballet and the arts, Balm’s transition into space strategy and defense serves as an inspiration for those contemplating a career change. Her story reinforces the idea that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passion, encouraging attendees to embrace their unique paths.

Celebrating Historical Contributions

The panel also highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of women in the space industry. Figures like Eileen Collins, the first female Space Shuttle commander, and Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to orbit the Earth, were acknowledged for their groundbreaking achievements. These historical milestones serve as reminders of the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in achieving gender parity in space.

Breaking the Glass Ceiling

KCL UN Women UK co-presidents Manon Martin and Maÿlis Menesson expressed their commitment to providing women with “real opportunities for their future.” By organizing frequent panels and networking events, they aim to empower women to break the glass ceiling in various industries, particularly in fields where they have been historically underrepresented. Their vision for the future is one where women are not only present but are also leading in the space industry.

A Bright Future Ahead

The event concluded on a hopeful note, with all speakers expressing optimism for a future where women occupy more leadership roles in the space sector. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the stories of resilience and determination shared by the panelists. As Martin and Menesson reminded everyone, “If you try to reach the moon, you might end up in the stars.”

To stay updated on future events and opportunities, follow KCL UN Women UK, KCL Space, Science Mind Magazine, and KCL Women in Engineering on Instagram. Together, we can continue to champion the cause of women in space and beyond.