Our Young Professionals Board members are all shining role models, so it’s always sad when their term comes to an end and we have to say goodbye.
We recently caught up with departing members Kathryn Malcolm, Jesie Dyos, Susie Little and Ruth Scott-Bolt to learn more about their time as part of the WISE Young Professionals Board.
What has been your proudest achievement whilst being part of the WISE Young Professionals Board (YPB)?
Kathryn Malcolm, Chair: There are too many to choose from! One of my proudest achievements was implementing the first ever board strategy as Chair and using this to measure our impact at the end of the year. Another was speaking at the WISE Conference and meeting HRH The Princess Royal.
Jesie Dyos, Vice Chair: Delivering a session on “Engaging girls into Science” at an Education conference. It’s such an important subject to deliver to academics and educators, and one that’s close to my heart. I’ve always loved science, so it was great sharing ideas of how to make science exciting and more appealing to young females and to break down any barriers! And of course meeting HRH The Princess Royal at the 2024 WISE Conference.
Susie Little: One of my proudest achievements was starting our book club with our online community. We discussed a range of topics from self-development to enjoyable fiction reads with a STEM theme to connect and engage with a diverse audience. I have also really enjoyed being involved in our podcast, unfiltered STEM, where we have really engaging conversations during our recording sessions on a variety of STEM or women-related topics.
Ruth Scott-Bolt: I’m most proud of my transformative journey both professionally and personally whilst being part of the YPB. I have successfully led the communications workstream and supported the relationships workstream, making a visible socially responsible contribution while broadening my network across various industries and sectors. I was also proud to be part of the WISE Conference where I spoke on the panel hosted by the Young Professionals and had the honour of meeting HRH The Princess Royal too.
Why did you join the WISE Young Professionals Board?
Jesie: When I joined the water sector I became aware how male dominated it was. As the only female, it really resonated that we needed more diversity in the team to bring different ideas and perspectives. This ignited my passion for EDI, so I joined Thames Waters Women’s network. This group introduced me to WISE, their mission and their Young Professionals Board. So I took the leap and applied.
Susie: I wanted to be part of a community that actively promotes diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. I was drawn to the idea of connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for making a positive impact.
Ruth: I joined because of my passion for equity, diversity, and inclusion and supporting other women. I wanted to diversify my network wider than my known industry, step out of my comfort zone, and be a role model for my younger family members.
Kathryn: I joined to pursue something I was passionate about, push myself outside of my comfort zone, and to develop an external network outside of my organisation. It’s one of the best things I have done!
What has being part of the YPB taught you?
Susie: Being part of the YPB has been an incredibly enriching experience. It has allowed me to connect with an inspiring group of women whose dedication and achievements have motivated me to step out of my comfort zone. The supportive environment of the YPB has taught me the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the power of a strong, diverse community.
Ruth: It has solidified the importance of taking on new responsibilities and stepping out of your comfort zone. Prior to the YPB, I had little experience or confidence when it came to social media, but leading the communications workstream has offered me the opportunity to learn and be creative in a ‘give-it-a-go’ environment. Being part of the Board has provided me with incredible fulfilment, growth, and a sense of purpose.
Kathryn: From joining the board in January 2021 to now I have developed personally and professionally tremendously! My confidence has grown. I have developed people management, strategy, budget, and public speaking skills. I have learned so much from my colleagues on the board, WISE and the many people I have met through the network.
Jesie: It’s taught me what amazing work WISE, and their partners, are doing for the EDI space and how integral the YPB are in achieving their mission. I have been given many opportunities to learn and grow such as leading the communications workstream which developed my leadership skills. I’ve had speaking opportunities at education events and the WISE conference. Finally, this year having the support and confidence from the Chair to put myself forward for the Vice Chair role.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking about applying?
All: Seize the opportunity! Don’t be scared or worried to put yourself out there. You will gain valuable insights and skills and become part of a supportive and inspiring community.
A massive thank you to Kathryn, Jesie, Susie and Ruth for their contributions to the WISE Young Professionals Board. You’ve been outstanding members and a pleasure to work with, we wish you every success in the future.
You can find out more about our Young Professionals Board and the activities mentioned in this article on LinkedIn.