STEM IT Like A Girl
The Importance of Breaking The Stereotypes That Hold Women Back
Fact: the position of women in society has improved significantly in the past century.
Also a fact: there is still much work to be done – such as addressing the issues that prevent young women from choosing education and/or a profession in a STEM field.
We present you Macedonia 2025’s project – ‘STEM IT Like A Girl ‘– meant to promote careers in a STEM field to young women. As part of the project, there were organized lectures for young women in primary schools, at which women working in STEM shared their experiences – why they chose a career in STEM, how they got to where they were, and how they overcame the obstacles along the way. The project was developed to provide a platform through which young women will be introduced to the possibilities of a job in STEM and break the stereotypes surrounding women’s participation and contribution in the field.
IT Labs supports initiatives that bring science and tech closer to young people, so of course, we participated. Our Aleksandra Glavinova and Ilina Pejoska Zaturoski shared their journeys in two such lectures.
Here are their stories:
“Don’t let all the stereotypes and misconceptions hold you back and prevent you from chasing your dreams. Every woman can show that she’s just as good and as skilled – all it takes is persistence and hard work.”
Aleksandra’s Story
A few years ago, fresh out of high school, Aleksandra was contemplating her next move – she wanted to pursue a degree in electrical engineering and a career in the tech industry, but as soon as she shared her plans, the feedback she received was full of stereotypes.
People were telling her how the tech industry is a “man’s world,” how she’d struggle to push her way through and be overlooked, and how her fundamental rights won’t be respected in a private company as they would in the public sector. Still, her unwavering determination to pursue her dreams and break down the barriers pushed her to go for it.
Today, Aleksandra has a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from the Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering in Skopje, she’s working as a Front-end Engineer at IT Labs, and is on course to get her MSc in the same field.
“Don’t let all the stereotypes and misconceptions hold you back and prevent you from chasing your dreams. Every woman can show that she’s just as good and as skilled – all it takes is persistence and hard work.”
Ilina’s Story
Ilina’s journey is filled with both ups and downs. Still, it all resulted in her being where she is today – a skilled UX/UI designer at IT Labs, an owner of a successful small business, and a mother. She says the support from close people is paramount and that we need to surround ourselves with people who can help us on our path to fulfilling our dreams.
In her opinion, the long road she traveled is something the younger generation can do without, which is why she’s focused on sharing her experience and knowledge with anyone interested in pursuing a career in the IT industry in her spare time.
“ Don’t be afraid to be more, because we’re all capable of it. If you know that you deserve more – be it a salary, your own business, or anything else – go for it! Nothing is impossible!”
Takeaway
The idea that women should stay away from male-dominated industries is not just an outdated one – it’s also harmful. And the only way to break these stereotypes is to do just what our IT Labs’ girls did – work hard for their dreams, surround themselves with like-minded and supportive people, and don’t let anything prevent them from reaching the top!
