30.06.2025
For several years, Morson Edge in Canada has been a proud sponsor of CAGIS, working to break down barriers and champion inclusion in STEM. Together, we’ve opened doors for girls and gender-diverse youth across the country, inspiring the next generation of innovators. Now, we take a moment to reflect on the impact of this partnership.
Despite growing awareness, girls and gender-diverse youth remain significantly underrepresented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Persistent stereotypes, such as envisioning engineers as “old white men with glasses” continue to impact the ambitions and interests of students who don’t see themselves reflected in these careers.
Recent research from the IET reveals that one of the main reasons for the gender disparity in STEM is the lack of encouragement for women to consider STEM careers during school (45%), along with the perception of the industry as being male-dominated (32%), which often discourages them further.
That’s why organisations like the Canadian Association for Girls in Science (CAGIS) are so vital..
Breaking barriers and championing inclusion in STEM
As Canada’s largest and longest-running STEM club for girls and gender-diverse youth aged 7 to 17, CAGIS offers a transformative experience through hands-on activities, inspiring role models, and inclusive learning environments.
Larissa Vingilis-Jaremko, Founder & President of the CAGIS, said:
“If we think of gender equity in STEM as a pipeline, it starts with youth. Making sure that those educational barriers are not present and that we are able to support youth in their education up to post-secondary and beyond. But it continues once we’re looking at the STEM workforce. Making sure that the workforce and the companies and employers are creating equitable spaces for their employees. And then the third component is advancement. We know that women and gender diverse people hit what we sometimes refer to as a glass ceiling. They’re not advancing in their careers at the same rate as men are. And we know that this is impacted by bias.”
Women often face numerous barriers and challenges that hinder their progression across various fields. In STEM, it is even more profound as the majority of STEM occupations are held by men
Luckily there are initiatives, helping to change this. One of them is CAGIS.
The impact of Morson’s sponsorship of CAGIS
At Morson, we are committed to helping attract more girls in STEM, and Morson has proudly sponsored CAGIS by helping to break down barriers and build a more inclusive future in STEM. With Morson’s support (including a $12,000 contribution) the program has achieved remarkable impact across the country, both online and in person.
Thanks to this sponsorship, CAGIS was able to:
- Supply 15 waived memberships
- Host nearly 100 in-person STEM events
- Run 28 virtual events
These efforts paid off. Survey results from CAGIS chapters and virtual participants show the overwhelmingly positive influence of the program, with 98% of participants proved to enjoyed the experience, 99% learned new things, 97% felt inspired after meeting STEM experts, 96% expressed a desire to learn more, 96% believed they could be good at STEM and 94% are considering a STEM career.
CAGIS takes an intersectional approach, recognising that representation matters. By creating safe, inclusive spaces where youth can explore STEM through the lens of their diverse identities, CAGIS helps participants to not only see themselves in the field but leading it.
The following quote from the CAGIS impact report reveals the value of Morson’s support and proves the remarkable results of our partnership:
“Thank you once again, Morson Talent, for your generosity. Your support allowed us to deliver a fun, hands-on STEM experience to girls and gender diverse youth across the country. We value your partnership and hope to see it grow in the future as we build the next generation of STEM experts, together.”
How CAGIS changed young students’ approach to STEM subjects?
Youth voices best describe the impact:
“CAGIS made me realise what I want to be in the future and how I can do it. It opened my eyes to a whole new world.”
“CAGIS is the best program I have ever been a part of. These programs opened my eyes to opportunities in STEM that I didn’t even think were possible.”
“I found it amazing to have a community of teen girls who are very interested and passionate about STEM! I find it difficult to come across this elsewhere. Having the community made me feel inspired and empowered to keep continuing on my own STEM journey.”
In follow-up surveys conducted in 2017 and 2022, 94% of CAGIS alum respondents reported that they were studying or working in STEM fields, with many directly attributing their career choices to experiences they had in the program.
Morson is proud to help shape a brighter, more inclusive future in STEM. Together with CAGIS, we’re not only supporting education; we’re sparking lifelong opportunities for the next generation of innovators.
Because at the sharp end, there’s no time to stand still.
