Be Brave: Redefining How We Raise Girls in STEM

Publication date: April 23, 2025

Written by Devon Young – Discover Devon's career pathway here

 Conversations about children often reveal the subtle ways we shape their futures. A friend of mine, a mother of a two-year-old boy, frequently says, “Boys need plenty of room to run around” or “Boys need to get their energy out.” But I always counter: isn’t it about the individual child, not their gender? Girls also need plenty of room to run around and get their energy out. 

This mindset shift became even clearer to me when many years ago I watched a TED Talk by Reshma Saujani. She spoke about how we historically have taught girls to be perfect and boys to be brave. In that moment, I saw my entire life flash before me—she was talking about me! I had always hesitated to try something unless I could do it perfectly the first time. The fear of failure kept me from sticking with things, from even trying at all. I realized how deeply ingrained this mindset was, not just in me, but in how we raise our girls. 

 I decided to change—not just for myself but for my daughters. Now, I actively encourage them to jump, to be brave, to try new things. I remind them that no one gets things right on the first try and that practice is key. More than that, I model bravery myself. 

  Recently, I took on a project at work in a role I had never done before. The old me would have hesitated, afraid of failure, but instead, I embraced learning on the job. I know how paralyzing rejection and fear of judgment can be—what if they think I’m terrible? What if they laugh? But now, my answer is simple: so what? Why should I let others limit my ability to try new things? 

  This new mindset led me to a unique opportunity. I have worked for Avanade for nearly 12 years and this year they are celebrating their 25th Anniversary. To celebrate they are sponsoring a show garden at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. I love gardening, and also love working in technology, it’s the perfect marriage! I jumped at the chance to be involved. Not knowing exactly what role to take, I created my own—I’m leading the design and development of the intelligence in the garden. Every day, I’m learning, making mistakes, working alongside some of the smartest, kindest people I’ve ever met, and most importantly, having fun. 

  So, to every girl in STEM, to every woman who hesitates before taking a leap: Be brave. Raise your hand, take on something that scares you, try something new. You’ll feel uncomfortable, but you might just discover something that fills your life with joy.