**BridgeSTEAM Brings Science and Tech Careers Closer to Limassol Girls**
Limassol, Cyprus – A new initiative aimed at empowering young girls in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) is set to take place on October 10 and 11 at PwC’s Limassol offices. The BridgeSTEAM programme, organized by the Girls in STEAM Academy, offers a free two-day experience for girls aged 14 to 16, providing them with an opportunity to explore various STEAM careers.
The programme is designed to combine hands-on programming and digital skills with career guidance and networking opportunities. Participants will engage in practical activities that introduce them to the fundamentals of programming while also learning about the diverse academic and professional pathways available in STEAM fields. Importantly, the initiative aims to connect attendees with women currently working in STEAM professions, allowing them to gain insights into real-world experiences and career choices.
Applications for the BridgeSTEAM programme are open until September 30, and no prior knowledge of programming is required. The initiative targets not only those girls who already have an interest in technology and science but also those who are curious about the subjects and want to explore potential studies and careers in these areas.
Throughout the two-day event, participants will engage in creative programming activities and attend a career guidance workshop. This workshop will introduce them to various academic routes and professional opportunities. Additionally, the programme emphasizes essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and confidence-building, while also facilitating connections among girls from different regions of Cyprus.
The BridgeSTEAM programme aligns with broader efforts to address the gender gap in technology-related professions, where women currently represent only 19.5% of ICT specialists in the European Union. The Girls in STEAM Academy highlights that this issue extends beyond mere representation; it influences who participates in the development of technologies and solutions that shape everyday life. Stereotypes regarding gender roles in technology, a lack of visible female role models, and unequal encouragement can significantly impact the choices girls make as they approach university studies and career decisions.
By focusing on girls aged 14 to 16, the BridgeSTEAM programme aims to expose participants to various opportunities before they narrow their educational and professional choices. Since its inception in 2021, the Girls in STEAM Academy has successfully graduated over 300 girls from its various programmes. Participants who complete the BridgeSTEAM programme also gain access to an alumni network, which provides information about further educational and professional opportunities both in Cyprus and internationally.
Previous graduates of the programme have gone on to participate in the international TechGirls programme in the United States, host episodes of the academy’s SheSpeaks podcast, and engage in job-shadowing activities with local companies and organizations. One participant from the 2025 Larnaca programme described her experience with BridgeSTEAM as “the best decision I have ever made.” Another participant from last year’s Limassol programme praised it as “a truly excellent programme” that opened her eyes to new possibilities in STEAM and inspired her future academic pursuits.
As the October programme approaches, schools, teachers, career advisers, and parents are encouraged to share this opportunity with girls who may benefit from participation. Looking ahead, the Girls in STEAM Academy plans to announce additional BridgeSTEAM programmes in Nicosia and Larnaca for November and December 2026.
The main sponsors supporting this year’s BridgeSTEAM programmes include PwC Cyprus, Famous Sports, Zygos, CyRIC, and UCLan Cyprus. The Girls in STEAM Academy operates as a non-profit initiative under the Be an Ally Foundation, dedicated to reducing the underrepresentation of women and girls in STEAM fields since 2021.
For those interested in applying, the online application form is available until September 30, providing a valuable opportunity for young girls to explore and engage with the STEAM disciplines that will shape their futures.