‘Women in Conservation’ was born from a desire to improve the diversity of external speakers, coming to talk to students at the University, and also within the internal teaching staff. The group has therefore decided to host an annual conference showcasing some of the amazing women that have managed to overcome societal obstacles in conservation.
University of Exeter students host ‘Women in Conservation’ conference
An all-female group of University of Exeter students in Cornwall have come together to address their shared concern and passion for gender equality.
‘Women in Conservation’ was born from a desire to improve the diversity of external speakers, coming to talk to students at the University, and also within the internal teaching staff. The group has therefore decided to host an annual conference showcasing some of the amazing women that have managed to overcome societal obstacles in conservation.
With help and support from the University, Catherine, Katie, Deborah, Ella, Emily, Anna, Caitlin, and Sarah founded the ‘Women in Conservation’ group and have set a date for the big event, Thursday 5 March. This aligns with both British Science Week from 6-15 March and International Women’s Day on 8 March.
The students have put together an impressive line-up of guest speakers, keen to share their personal journeys through this male-dominated sector. The event can be an invaluable learning and development experience for all attendees. Experts are coming from all around the UK and include world record stand-up paddle boarder Cal Major, and Naomi Stratton, the lead advisor in terrestrial biodiversity at Natural England.
Emily Stevenson, Women in Conservation committee member says, “There are often inequalities that we experience in our lives, with little opportunities to be proactive and do something about it. We’re grateful that the University has been so supportive and helpful. Hopefully this is something that can continue every year to ensure future students can benefit from what we have started here together.”
Catherine Lee Hing, another member of the committee added, “As someone coming from a multicultural background, I value diversity in all aspects of my life. I think it is very important to learn from, and share ideas with, people from all backgrounds, especially if we are striving to expand our horizons, which is why we chose this as the title of our conference.”
The conference, ‘Expanding Horizons’, will be held on 5 March from 4-8pm at the University’s Penryn Campus in Daphne Du Maurier Lecture Theatre A, followed by drinks and pizza in the Masters Suite. This is a FREE event.
This event has been part-funded by Falmouth & Exeter Students’ Union’s Campaigns & Events Fund.
If you have any questions for the team, or would like to find out how you can help/join next year, please email: women.in.conservation.cornwall@gmail.com
Full details of the event and a link to tickets can be found here: www.facebook.com/events/197588931348959/
