Only 28 per cent of the global S.T.E.M. [Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics] workforce comprises women, but Samoan women are bucking the trend and challenging these global statistics.

According to a statement released by the Government of Samoa, Samoan women across many S.T.E.M. fields are making vital contributions to the country, and are breaking down barriers in what is normally a male-dominated field.

Australia is working with Samoa to address the issue and is supporting the growth of opportunities for women in S.T.E.M. Two such Samoan trailblazers are Australia Awards alumni Saouila Tolovaa and Sheena Uputaua Lesa.

Saouila Tolovaa, who is a research scientist in the microbiology technical team at the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (S.R.O.S.), says her journey into S.T.E.M. started with a curious mind and a love for learning. 

“Being a scientist doesn’t mean you always need to have the right answer,” says Ms. Tolovaa. “Be curious and challenge what is already out there, and prove what is not – that’s what I believe makes a good scientist."

Sheena Uputaua Lesa, Chief Information Technology Officer at the Samoa National Provident Fund, was inspired by her computer teacher in Samoa College to pursue a career in software engineering. 

“When my computer teacher in Samoa College said that a computer only understands 0 and 1, I was curious to know why not 5, 6, or 8,” says Ms. Lesa. 

“What was special about 0 and 1? This sparked my interest in the world of technology.”

Despite being the only girl in her graduating class of 2013, Ms. Lesa says it only motivated her to succeed. 

“It just made me want to push further and prove that gender has nothing to do with achieving your own goals,” she says.

Ms. Tolovaa encourages young girls considering a career in S.T.E.M. to “expect frustration, challenge, and failure in this field. But that doesn’t mean you give up once you fail.” She says, “It just means you are one step ahead in reaching that cutting-edge conclusion.”

Ms. Lesa advises others wanting to pursue a career in S.T.E.M. to “set realistic goals – time is your most valuable asset.” 

She adds, “Never lose sight of it, always embrace and learn from your failures.”

In response to the needs identified by the Samoa Government, the Australia Awards scholarship program creates opportunities for Samoan students to further their education and to contribute making a meaningful difference to their families and to the people. Applications for the 2024 Australia Awards Program are now open.