Big Sisters in STEM

We begin our journey with two guests aligned in their passion of making a positive impact on our planet, Ciara (she/her) and Vanessa (they/them). Ciara bringing her experience as an Aerospace Systems Lecturer, and Vanessa theirs as an Earth and Environmental Science student. You may be surprised just how much their passions collide, but then again, isn’t bringing different perspectives together what innovating is all about?

Joining our Host, Jasmine Luby Barrow (she/her), we talk about how the little things around us can make a big difference when it comes to inspiring the paths we take – be that staring up at the stars or having access to outside spaces to interact with nature. Beyond this we look at how everything is connected, and how intersectionality in both skillsets and backgrounds is vital to creative outcomes, and how there really is more than one way to be a great engineer or scientist.

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://youtu.be/KRGD7GBhVUM
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About the guests
Ciara McGrath (she/her) is a lecturer in Aerospace Systems here at the University and specialises in space mission design and astrodynamics – with a big focus on sustainable spacecraft designs which can provide valuable data to us here on earth. The astronomical impact and possibilities which Ciara’s work opens hasn’t gone unnoticed, and we just had to mention that among her achievements she has previously been named IET’s Woman of the Year. As she joins us, we learn that space technology might not be as distant as we think, and how it holds the power to significantly improve lives here on earth.

Vanessa Thai (they/them) is a first year Earth and Environmental student at The University of Manchester, whose passion for an innovative, more creative approach to science earned them a sought-after scholarship here at Manchester, and much admiration from their peers. Our Host, Jasmine first met Vanessa when they took to the stage to deliver a speech in Vanessa’s first semester at university. Jasmine cannot talk highly ‘I was so inspired with how they spoke about the interconnectedness of the world, I remember getting chills!’


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!