February 11, 2026
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Building inclusive futures by supporting women and girls at every stage of their scientific journey
February 11, International Day of Women and Girls in Science, is a global moment to recognize the critical role women and girls play in shaping the future of science, and the work still needed to ensure they can thrive.
In 2026, the focus goes beyond awareness and into action. Building inclusive futures in STEM means creating environments where curiosity is encouraged early, talent is supported consistently, and women are empowered to stay and lead throughout their scientific careers.
AWIS carries this work forward through programs, community, and advocacy year-round.
Wear Your Support for Women and Girls in Science
Celebrate the women who paved the way—and the ones who will follow. These new AWIS designs honor women’s impact in science while helping fund programs that support women and girls across STEM fields.
A Letter to My 13-Year-Old Self
AWIS invited members to reflect on the advice they wish they’d received at 13—when curiosity is high, confidence is still forming, and possibility feels wide open.
"I wish someone had told me that a career in science would be challenging, but in a good way. There’s always something new to learn, and you don’t have to know everything right away! STEM is big, exciting, and full of possibilities, and the challenges are part of what make it so rewarding."
"I failed my first science exam in 9th grade and thought maybe I just wasn’t good at it. With time, support, and persistence, I went on to score nearly full marks. Even if you’re “slow” by other people’s standards, it doesn’t mean you aren’t good at science or that you can’t get better."
“Dear 13-year-old me: You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to belong in science. Curiosity whispers before it shouts, and the questions you’re afraid to ask might be the very ones that change everything. Science isn’t about being the fastest; it’s about enduring the discomfort of not knowing and staying curious anyway. Your persistence will carry you further than talent ever could.”
"Your lived experience isn't a barrier to science. Regardless of what you go through it’s your foundation and likely your superpower. STEM isn't about fitting into existing spaces. It's about reshaping them using those lived experiences."
"l wish l knew being well-rounded across disciplines is key for navigating your career path as well as making an impact!"
“You don’t have to be alone in Science! Just keep your mind open to collaborations even if it is beyond your field. Real magic happens when you collaborate with right people!”
"You don't have to be fearless or perfect to belong to science. Curiosity and persistence matter far more. As a woman in medicine, I wish I'd know at age 13 that self-doubt is common, even among highly capable people, and it does not mean you are in wrong path."
"I didn’t realize early on that my engagement with nature and food systems would shape my scientific career, and that curiosity can have a lasting impact."
"Your convictions are strong enough, and your belief in yourself will take you far. Be open-minded and attentive to the unconventional areas of science that spark your interest."
Honoring the Women Who Shaped Science
Today’s scientists build on the discoveries, persistence, and leadership of women who came before them. Explore AWIS’s Historical Women in Science Database to learn about the women whose work continues to shape science today.
