Innovator Impact: Esther’s Story

“I learned that using subjects like technology, AI, and more aren’t just for older people who are the smartest people ever. As long as you are willing, STEM can work for any age and anyone.”

When Esther arrived at her first STEM Exploration Camp, she was eight years old, newly arrived in the United States, and certain that technology was for someone else. Today, she’ll tell you STEM was always hers, she just needed the room.

The Journey Begins 

In 2022, Esther walked into STEM Exploration Camp as a first-time camper who loved reading and writing and had never built anything in a STEM classroom. She didn’t hold back. She dove into developing business plans with her campmates and pitched their ideas at the Summer Innovator Showcase.

Over three years, she went from first-time camper to two-time STEM Star Award winner to first-place team lead. In 2024, she earned the STEM Star Award twice, recognized by staff for exemplifying Self-eSTEM values. By summer 2025, she led her team to a first-place finish for their age group at the Summer Camp Innovator Showcase. At the Golden State Valkyries + PG&E Pathways to STEM engagement at Chase Center, she toured the arena’s control room, heard from STEM professionals on careers at the intersection of STEM and sports, and asked sharp questions throughout.

Now a sixth grader in her fourth year as a Self-eSTEM Innovator, Esther is not the new kid anymore. She is a two-time STEM Star Award winner, a member of Summer Camp Innovator Showcase first-place team, and, by her own account, someone who belongs in this field.

Help the Next Innovator Step In 

When you support Self-eSTEM, you open the room for the next Esther, the kid who walks in a certain world that wasn’t built for her and walks out knowing she was wrong. Your support means the next Esther doesn’t have to wait to find out she belongs.

Join the Movement

Self-eSTEM opens the door. Our Innovators walk through and lead. Visit www.selfestem.org to learn how you can contribute through donations, volunteer opportunities, and mentorship.  Together, we can create a future where every young woman has the opportunity to thrive in STEM.

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