Big Sisters in STEM

Shouldn’t we all be the main character in our own lives? This week Jasmine talks sustainability and finding support systems with two guests – Fashion Business and Technology Lecturer Charlene Gallery (she/her), and final year Computer Science Student Eman Ahsan (she/her).
From 3D modelling the shoes on your feet, to using technology to mitigate the need for waste in clothes sampling, Charlene advocates that STEM and the Arts are stronger together. 

As two worlds collide, Eman shares her own perspective on the rapidly developing tech world and looks out at the possibilities ahead. Expect serious discussions about modern world, sprinkled with belly laughs and ‘aha!’ moments!
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.
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Follow us on Instagram: @bigsistersinstem
Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpJ4ISSChse3L3q6c74USF6ecU3L79vzu
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About the guests

Charlene Gallery (she/her) is a lecturer in Fashion Business and Technology at The University of Manchester, and one of the many responsibilities she has taken on is that of Employability Tutor to her students: ‘You know, I always advocate for students to get industry experience’. This makes perfect sense, as Charlene’s own incredible portfolio goes far beyond working in Higher Education – she has also worked in the Fashion Industry with brands including Ralph Lauren, Inditex, and more. Today, Charlene shares why it’s so important to gain our own experiences, but also the role of supportive spaces, and how STEM is actually much bigger than you might think.

Eman Ahsan (she/her) is a final year Computer Science student here at the University, with a passion for problem-solving, coding, and applying computer science in broad and exciting ways. As part of her degree, Eman has also completed a year in industry, which sparks conversation today – the tracking technology she used in a manufacturing application also cropping up in the Fashion Industry. Eman has long been an inspiration to our Host, Jasmine, as for years she has gone out of her way to talk to and support others considering Higher Education.

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!