Speaking up, the climate crisis, and being on the crest of a wave

Speaking out about the things that matter, matters. This week Jasmine is diving into the deep end with Professor of Climate Science and Energy, Alice Larkin (she/her), and Ishita Somwanshi (she/her) a first year Materials Science and Engineering student.

When you find yourself riding the crest of a wave, Alice argues it’s important to bring others along with you. Be it in climate science or creating equal opportunities, Alice and Ishita both agree that we can’t change the world by ourselves – it takes a village! 

From decoding gendered language to reducing shipping emissions, this episode is filled with both newsworthy topics and unexpected directions. Join us to learn why it’s so important to speak up for our peers, even when they’re not in the room, and why it’s okay if your journey into STEM hasn’t been a straight line because together, our differences make us stronger. As Alice would say, ‘It isn’t about individuals, it’s about the collective’.

So put your headphones on, get comfy, and join us as we sit down and share our stories, perspectives, and have a good old laugh too. If you thought you didn’t have sisters to turn to for advice, yes you do. 

____

Follow us on Instagram: @bigsistersinstem

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7EsaXJ4hJDw

About the guests

Where do we begin introducing Professor Alice Larkin (she/her)? Currently a Professor in Climate Science and Energy Policy at The Tyndall Centre, and previously Head of Engineering here at The University of Manchester,                  Alice has committed her career to making positive change. Be it through advocating for holistic sustainability solutions, or personally changing recruitment methods to use less gendered language, Alice goes above and beyond to create a better future for others. A true changemaker, we couldn’t be more honoured to have her join the Big Sisters community.  

As a first year Materials Science and Engineering student at The University of Manchester, Ishita Somwanshi (she/her) might be in her discovery phase, but she’s learning fast. Attracted to Materials in her pursuit to study something interdisciplinary, Ishita is keen to make a big impact and already investigating the sectors responsible for heavy fossil fuel usage, and how her skillset could help to create solutions for these. A scholarship holder with a natural ability for professional public speaking, Jasmine knew she wanted Ishita on the show as soon as they met: ‘Ishita has this ability to look at the big picture and quickly find puzzle pieces within it, which she could fill – watch this space!’.

Creators & Guests

Host

Jasmine Luby Barrow

It feels weird seeing 'host' next to my name! Or, do I mean frightening? I am also the producer, writer, and artist behind the logo for Big Sisters in STEM, and a Coordinator at The University of Manchester. When I'm not talking about education, you can also find me being a huge nerd for all things gender and mythology - most notably, writing short stories and making a mess with my paints!

Producer

Alice Stevens

As one of five girls, I am a big, middle and younger sister all at once! With a background in journalism, beyond producing this podcast I’ll also be running our BSIS Instagram to promote these wonderful people and their stories as far and wide as possible!

Editor

Kory Stout

I am a proud member of the Big Sister's in STEM team. I've worked at The University of Manchester for a decade and I am constantly in awe and inspired by the women who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in Science and Engineering.

Editor

Nick Parker

I’ve been helping with audio recording and mixing for Big Sisters. It’s been fascinating to hear these all stories of growth and resilience, woven together into a truly supportive community.

What is Big Sisters in STEM?

As women and marginalised voices, we’re told just being in the room is a great achievement – so why doesn’t it always feel great? From imposter syndrome to the feminine urge to over-burden ourselves, it takes guts to take up space in field that wasn’t made with you in mind.

Join us for six episodes as we sit down every week with scientists, students, and sisters at all stages of their journey in STEM – you’re not the only girl in this classroom!