The president and founder of the Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) foundation, Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor participated in a 2-day “Women’s Forum” in Mauritius.

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/05/2016 -- The theme of the Forum is: "Meeting the Climate Challenge for Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and Africa."Participants debated on climate and health solutions; climate, agriculture, and biodiversity best practices; sustainable energy and water and sanitation for Africa and Small Island Developing States (SIDS); advancing innovation in agriculture, health and land use; improving the participation of women and youth in scientific and technological training; and processes for frugal green innovations with value-added for SIDS and African economies.

Dr. Unoma Okorafor spoke on the importance of Mentorship as more African women are moving into leadership and growth and also, emphasized on ways to improve participation of women and youth in scientific and technological training. "We need more women in STEM in order to tap into creativity and solve African problems by engaging girls at an early age in hands-on STEM activities, training more STEM teacher and tapping into University students and a non-traditional source of STEM trainers for secondary school girls."

"African women must break rules in order to change the current state of things. African women need to seize the African agenda. We must work together against organizational and systematic challenges that hinder STEM education in Africa such as rote memorization. We must embrace localization of materials and curriculum, using what we have to solve the issues we face."

"Engaging women in technology is crucial for sustainable development in Africa," she added.

The Women's Forum Mauritius 2016 was being held for the first time in the African region, more particularly, in a Small Island Developing State (SIDS). Its main objective was to underscore the preparedness of Mauritius, the SIDS and the African countries in addressing the challenges and implications of climate change. The president of Mauritius, Gurib-Farkim, was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Women Forum. In her opening remarks, she observed that women are those who are and will be more affected by the impacts of climate change since they are more dependent for their livelihood on natural resources that are now presently under threat. The forum took up the innovation challenge for island states and Africa. It also showcased Mauritius's remarkably rich natural flora and fauna, while underlying why it is a global biodiversity hot spot.

According to Dr. Unoma, during her interview on improving women's advancement in Small Island Developing Countries like Mauritius and Africa, she mentioned that SIDS in Africa need funding allocation and technical assistance expertise to promote women owned businesses, entrepreneurship, innovation programs, digital literacy, and leadership training for women. Also, they need robust international policies and strategies that address the cause of pollution and amplify the impact of global warming and climate change on the livelihoods and quality of living for women in Small Island Developing Countries and Africa.

"Recognizing that no one can achieve greatness alone, Women in particular benefit significantly from mentorship and having advocates as they aspire to advance into leadership. I advocate that women become intentional about getting involved with inspiring communities because the easiest way to be successful is to hang around people who are successful. Also, grab leadership opportunities whenever they come. Never turn down an opportunity to stand out, or lead even when feeling inadequate. Engage with a mission that is bigger than yourself and attempt things beyond your perceived capability so that you can stretch yourself. Finally, recognize that failure is part of success and embracing it as an important step to learning valuable lessons." Dr. Unoma Okorafor advised aspiring women leaders to invest in Mentorship and Leadership opportunities.

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation is an international non-profit organization founded in 2007 whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women entering into Science and Technology fields and ensure they are engaged in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship to benefit Africa.

WAAW Foundation
P. O. Box 1691, Wylie, Texas 75098
Phone: 972-763-5924
Fax: 888-519-4269
Email: info@waawfoundation.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/waawfoundation
Twitter: www.twitter.com/waaw_foundation
Web: www.waawfoundation.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The application period for 2016 WAAW foundation Summer Camp, a week-long, fun, hands-on STEM immersion program for secondary school girls, is now open

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/05/2016 -- The Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation 2016 STEM Camp targets 40 under-represented senior secondary girls aged 13 – 17 years. The aim of the STEM camp program is to increase girls' interest and confidence in STEM, provide digital literacy training and create online peer networking platform, where girls connect and continue to learn and improve their technology skills. Girls will be introduced to computer science & programming, mobile application development and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) hand-on curriculum.

"Our STEM program allows academically talented, underrepresented girls in Public Senior Secondary Schools, mostly from poor socio-economic families to join other like-minded girls to explore STEM in a fun and informal environment, so that we equip girls with STEM skills they will use for a lifetime. We are working to expose as many girls as we can to a future that awaits their brilliance!" said, Dr. Unoma Okorafor, Founder and President, WAAW foundation.

WAAW foundation is partnering with Sasol Engineering, AFRITEX Initiative, and EduTeen Foundation to conduct the weeklong STEM camp sessions at Aduvie International School, Jahi District, Abuja, Nigeria from August 8-13, 2016. Camp participants will have the opportunity to learn to build a robot, build renewable energy systems such as solar and Wind Mill systems, learn basic computer science concepts and be introduced to programming (Arduino, raspberry pi, blockly, and SCRATCH), mobile app development, Javascript programming, circuit design, participate in team building exercises etc. They will interact with female role models and emphasize the use of computer science and technology to solve real life problems in their communities by employing locally available resources. The objective is to empower girls by inculcating the sense that they can contribute to problem solving, entrepreneurship and economic development in their communities.

There will also be fun and recreational activities such as baking, swimming, sports and game time, Dance-drama presentation, and a field trip or excursion to technological companies, University campuses as well as environmental, ecological and historical sites of interest around Abuja, Nigeria. These activities will give the girls the opportunity to open up and get connected with their peers, instructors and mentors in an informal setting.

They are now accepting applications for the 2016 STEM Summer camp Program!!! Registration for the STEM camp is open till July 30, 2016. Scholarships and partial scholarships are available for girls in Government or public schools only. Scholarship covers registration fee, training materials, feeding, boarding, and excursion fee.

For complete 2016 STEM camp program & application information, visit http://waawfoundation.org/2016-stem-camp-application/

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation is an international non-profit organization founded in 2007 whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women entering into Science and Technology fields and ensure they are engaged in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship to benefit Africa.

WAAW Foundation
P. O. Box 1691, Wylie, Texas 75098
Phone: 972-763-5924
Fax: 888-519-4269
Email: info@waawfoundation.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/waawfoundation
Twitter: www.twitter.com/waaw_foundation
Web: www.waawfoundation.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Today, WAAW foundation and AWELE Academy announced the launching of a Technology Leadership and Entrepreneurship Boot-camp in Lagos, Nigeria.

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/05/2016 -- "We are excited to announce the launching of WAAW foundation's African Women Engineering, Leadership and Entrepreneurship (AWELE) Academy – a 12 week coding, leadership and technology entrepreneurship boot-camp/school in Lagos, Nigeria." Said, Ebele Agu, WAAW Vice-president. AWELE academy is an immersive software engineering school for African women that focuses on Technology Leadership and Entrepreneurship. AWELE Academy is part of the Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women entering into Science and Technology fields and ensure they are engaged in Technology innovation to benefit Africa.

WAAW foundation has been a visionary supporter of social impact in Technology leadership and entrepreneurship for many years. Its support enables AWELE academy to perpetuate its mission to provide transformational experiences that will inspire, encourage and empower young African women to prepare for a long-term, fruitful careers in STEM sectors.

"We have been working to empower girls with STEM education in Africa for over 8 years." Said Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor, WAAW founder and president. "Awele Academy is established to provide a world-class educational environment with an advanced curriculum, taught by experienced instructors. We want to connect our students with a support network of alumnae and mentors and work with local and global technology companies to get them recruited."

The training program will be split between fun, hands-on, result-oriented workshops that deliver practical, creative, STEM & Computer science skills, and leadership and business seminars that address personal and professional skills for success.

Applications are now open for WAAW-AWELE Academy's first cohort of 15 participants only. Space is extremely limited. This is a 12 week coding bootcamp (Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm). Applicants will be contacted within 2 weeks to complete an online assessment, followed by an in-person interview. AWELE Academy is located at 39/40, Osolo way, off international airport road, Lagos, Nigeria.

Eligibility Criteria for participants include:

- Must be an African Woman above 18 years.
- Should be completing or have completed University or Post-Secondary Education.
- Must have a strong academic background.
- Prior experience coding or a degree in STEM is encouraged but not required.

Individuals interested in learning more about AWELE Academy as well as how to participate in the bootcamp can visit www.aweleacademy.com

About AWELE Academy
AWELE Academy is an immersive software engineering school for African women that also focuses on Technology Leadership and Entrepreneurship. AWELE's mission is to empower African women in technology and software programming through affordable education, quality instruction, and individualized mentorship. AWELE provide a world-class educational environment with an advanced curriculum, taught by experienced instructors and connect its students with a support network of alumnae and mentors and work with local and global tech companies to get them recruited.

Learn more: http://aweleacademy.com/

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation is an international non-profit organization founded in 2007 whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women entering into Science and Technology fields and ensure they are engaged in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship to benefit Africa.

WAAW Foundation
P. O. Box 1691, Wylie, Texas 75098
Phone: 972-763-5924
Fax: 888-519-4269
Email: info@waawfoundation.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/waawfoundation
Twitter: www.twitter.com/waaw_foundation
Web: www.waawfoundation.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

This summer, The Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) foundation is hosting 40 Secondary school girls for a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp designed to inspire African girls to explore careers in STEM fields

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/02/2015 -- WAAW foundation STEM camps are weeklong learning experiences in STEM that introduces African girls between the ages of 13 and 17 years who are currently enrolled in Senior Secondary School SS1 - SS3 to the fun of STEM through innovative hands-on learning challenges. "Our camps target girls from Public/Government school or low income families who would otherwise not have the opportunity to learn about or be exposed to possible STEM careers and learning in a fun, interactive and hands-on way. The idea is to introduce girls to STEM in general and to see that it is fun and interesting," says program director, Tolulope Owajoba

Supported by grant from EIF, Engineering Information Foundation, weeklong sessions will be conducted in Nairobi, Kenya in July and Lagos, Nigeria in August. Camp participants will have the opportunity to learn to build exciting robots on the NXT platform, build renewable energy systems such as solar and Wind Mill systems, learn basic computer science concepts and be introduced to programming using Arduino and raspberry pi platforms, playing with blockly program, participate in team building exercises etc. Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor, the president and Chief Executive officer of WAAW said that "With the right encouragement and exposure to STEM careers through these camp activities, girls can become our future Engineers, Scientists, creators, critical thinkers, designers, inventors and IT skilled users who will go on to provide solution to Power and Energy issues, cure diseases, discover new sources of clean energy, halt global warming etc"

Registration for the STEM camp is open till June 30, 2015. Scholarships are available for girls in Government or public schools only. Scholarships cover registration fee, training materials, feeding, boarding, and excursion fee.

For more information visit our website at: http://waawfoundation.org/stem-camp/

About WAAW STEM Camp Program
WAAW Foundation launched a Summer STEM camp program in 2013 as a means of providing extra-curricular activities to grab the interests of young African girls at an early age when career decisions are formed and to support their increased participation in STEM focused activities. The goal of the camp is to expose young African girls to STEM education, stimulating a sense of engagement, exploration and empowerment while learning and having fun at the same. The aim of the camp is to challenge traditional African societal beliefs that female education is wasted resources, and demonstrate that STEM innovation helps solve real problems in the communities in which our participants live.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

WAAW Foundation is pleased to announce the award of four scholarships to university students from four African countries.

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/02/2015 -- The WAAW foundation scholars were selected on the basis of academic merit in a field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math disciplines and demonstration of financial need.

WAAW awards scholarships of $500 for African women who have gained undergraduate admission to an institution of higher learning in Africa and are studying a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) related course. This one year scholarship will cover the cost of tuition, fees and course materials.

The following 4 women have been chosen from over 1,240 applications received from 34 countries of origin:

- Nanjala K. Rabaccah, from Kenya, is studying Civil Engineering at the University of Nairobi. Nanjala plan to venture into petroleum and water resources management and real estate development.

- Genet Melaku, from Ethiopia, is an orphan studying Civil Engineering at the Mekelle University. Her goal is to contribute to solutions for the continuing challenges prevailed in Ethiopia's construction sector by introducing standardized urban development plans and saving resource wastages

- Judith Ogbonezim, from Nigeria, is studying Mathematics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukkah. Her future ambition is to be a Mathematics Scholar. She intend to leave her foot prints in her country by setting up a Mathematics foundation Centre with global recognition in order to promote the study of Mathematics and assist the less privilege.

- Mektrida Patrick, from Tanzania, is studying Electrical Engineering at the St. Augustine University of Tanzania. Her goal is to innovate and create solutions to Power problems in Africa.

As part of the scholarship requirements, each of these girls will be a part of our STEM Cell Fellows that will initiate STEM Cell Units in various Secondary schools in their home country; this is an opportunity for the girls to also give back to their communities and start encouraging other young women to consider and remain in STEM Education.

Dr. Unoma Okorafor the Founder and Chief Executive of WAAW Foundation, in a message to the young women said, "You have worked hard to reach where you are in your STEM education. WAAW Foundation is here to support your ambitions and ensure that your dreams are materialized and will open opportunities in encouraging your innovations in the STEM field."

WAAW Foundation believes that female education and STEM innovation are key drivers for economic development of any region. Our overarching objective is to elevate the standards of STEM education among female Africans, and eliminate the huge disparity between the numbers of boys versus girls entering STEM related careers in Africa. WAAW works in the entire African sub region to promote its objectives, with specific presence in Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya and Ghana. Our programs are geared towards building STEM capacity among African girls and promote African innovation, and include Scholarships for college Girls in STEM disciplines, STEM camps for girls ages 11 through 15 and STEM Cell Initiatives to benefit secondary school girls. "The scholarship program was designed to foster and encourage financially need-based female students to continue to pursue careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math." said Ebele Agu, WAAW foundation Vice president.

About WAAW Foundation
Since its first award in 2012, the foundation has bestowed 17 scholarships worth approximately 8500 dollars. The foundation plan to award about 10 scholarships for the 2016-2017 academic year.

To learn more about the Scholarship program, visit our website at http://waawfoundation.org/scholarships/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) foundation today is very proud to announce its nomination as a beneficiary of the proceeds from the new book “Chasing Butterflies” by renowned Author, Yejide Kilanko

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/28/2015 -- Yejide Kilanko selected WAAW foundation along with the World readers as beneficiaries of the proceeds from her second book "CHASING BUTTERFLIES", she said, "Proceeds from the sale of this edition of CHASING BUTTERFLIES will benefit Worldreader and the Working to Advance African Women (WAAW) Foundation. Both organizations make a huge difference in the lives of children, their families and communities."

The pages of the book, "CHASING BUTTERFLIES" tell a courageous story about survival, change and the sometimes painful path to self-determination. Thanks to the kindness of the Author, Yejide Kilanko, proceeds from the book, will be donated to WAAW foundation, to help the organization to continue empowering young girls across Africa. The President and CEO of WAAW foundation, Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor expressed her joy, "I am super-excited and deeply humbled by this great opportunity. It will really go a long way to helping us continue our great work in promoting Female Education in Africa. Yejide writes about empowering African girls. Her first book Daughters that walk this path was hugely successful and an amazing look at some issues facing African girls. World reader promotes authors and donates their books free for each sale. All proceeds are donated to a non-profit of the author's choice and Yejide chose WAAW for the proceeds of her 2nd book."

Ebele Agu, the Vice-president at WAAW says, "Yejide Kilanko is a truly remarkable African Woman. Her selfless spirit is reflected in her generosity and willingness to donate all the proceeds to WAAW foundation and Worldreader to empower African children and their families".

Whilst this book will enthrall readers, it will also sustain and empower many female African students who are on the path to pursuing a career a prospective Engineers, Technologist and Scientists.

Please consider lending your support by buying the e-book on Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Yejide-Kilanko/e/B00A4PW05Y or sharing the information with your contacts.
Thank you!

About Yejide Kilanko
Yejide Kilanko was born in Ibadan, a sprawling university city in south-western Nigeria. She read just about anything she could lay her hands on and that love for reading led her to poetry writing when she was twelve. It was the best way she made sense of the long, angst-filled teenage and young adult years that followed.

After a big, loud, African wedding, she joined her husband in Maryland, USA. For a decade she stayed home to raise their three children, moved to Canada and went back to school to become a social worker.

Yejide started writing her debut novel, Daughters Who Walk This Path, in 2009 and it was published in Canada (2012) and in the USA (2013). Prior to 2009, she didn't think she could write a novel, so she's living proof that life can bring new dreams when least expected.

Yejide currently lives in Chatham, Ontario.

Worldreader is a non-profit on a mission to bring digital books to every child and her family, so that they can improve their lives. Learn more: http://www.worldreader.org/

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation is an international non-profit organization founded in 2007 whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women entering into Science and Technology fields and ensure they are engaged in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship to benefit Africa.

WAAW Foundation
P. O. Box 1691,
Wylie, Texas 75098
Phone: 972.763.5924
Fax: 888.519.4269
Email: info@waawfoundation.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/waawfoundation
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/waaw_foundation
Web: http://www.waawfoundation.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) foundation today announced the launch of a fundraising Indiegogo campaign for its 2015 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp for African girls.

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/28/2015 -- WAAW STEM camps are weeklong learning experiences in STEM that introduces African girls between the ages of 13 and 17 years who are currently enrolled in Senior Secondary School SS1 - SS3 to the fun of STEM through innovative hands-on learning challenges. WAAW program director, Tolulope Owajoba said, "Our camps target girls from Public/Government school or low income families who would otherwise not have the opportunity to learn about or be exposed to possible STEM careers and learning in a fun, interactive and hands-on way."

Camp participants will have the opportunity to learn to build exciting robots on the NXT platform, build renewable energy systems such as solar and Wind Mill systems, learn basic computer science concepts and be introduced to programming using Arduino and raspberry pi platforms, playing with blockly program, participate in team building exercises etc.

Since 2013, WAAW foundation has provided high quality summer STEM camps to young secondary school girls in Nigeria, however, the organization is seeking your help to raise funds to run these camps. This year, the organization kicked off a fundraising campaign to highlight the expansion of its STEM camp efforts and raise money to organize two camps in Nigeria and Kenya in other to impact over 70 girls in these countries. The campaign launched will help create support for STEM education opportunities for African girls. Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor, the president and Chief Executive officer of WAAW said that "Our campaign goal is to raise $20,000 to support our 2015 STEM and Computer Science Residential camps holding both in Lagos, Nigeria and Nairobi, Kenya July 24th through August 7th 2015. These camp programs will develop African girls who will become the next generation of scientists and engineers, innovators and creators, critical thinkers and problem solvers and skilled users of technology and information."

During this campaign, WAAW is asking individuals to make their financial contribution of $20, $50, $100, $150, $200 to support the STEM camp programs. Any amount donated will be appreciated and one step closer to allowing WAAW provide continual science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) exposure to young girls in Africa. Funds from this campaign will go to support WAAW STEM camp program activities that provide girls with the opportunities to engage in hands-on STEM activities, explore STEM careers and be exposed to real-world application of STEM. The Vice President of WAAW Foundation, Mrs. Ebele Agu is urging the public to donate to this worthy cause, "no amount is too small since it will go thus far, every donation will go directly toward the realization of our 2015 STEM summer camps in Nigeria and Kenya".

For more information and to donate please visit the 2015 WAAW STEM camp campaign page here:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/stem-education-for-young-girls-in-africa and make your generous donation.

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW Foundation launched a Summer STEM camp program in 2013 as a means of providing extra-curricular activities to grab the interests of young African girls at an early age when career decisions are formed and to support their increased participation in STEM focused activities. The goal of the camp is to expose young African girls to STEM education, stimulating a sense of engagement, exploration and empowerment while learning and having fun at the same. The aim of the camp is to challenge traditional African societal beliefs that female education is wasted resources, and demonstrate that STEM innovation helps solve real problems in the communities in which our participants live.

Learn more: http://waawfoundation.org/stem-camp/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Patricia Arquette, Multiple Award Winning Actor and Humanitarian to leada Stellar line up of speakers at 21st Annual Women in Technology

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/28/2015 -- WITI--(Women in Technology International), the leading global business organization for women in technology with more than 150,000 members worldwide, announced today its keynote speakers and session topics for its 21st Annual Summit. The Summit will focus on IoT (Internet of Things), Big Data, Leadership, Cloud, Community Brand Building and how women in technology are enhancing our lives and world by bringing the "Internet to Life". WITI is still taking reservations for the Summit that will be held May 31-June 2, 2015 at the Doubletree by Hilton San Jose.

For more information visit http://www.witi.com/summit

WITI is pleased to announce that Patricia Arquette continues her quest to share her thoughts on equality for women by kicking off the event from 5:00 – 5:45 on May 31. Arquette, who recently won an Oscar© for best actress for her work in the movie Boyhood, continues to make headlines about her passionate acceptance speech about equal rights for women. Arquette currently plays the leading role in the television series CSI:Cyber where she plays a Cyber psychologist who tracks and solves online illegal activity. WITI believes that Arquette's passion for women's equality and her other causes will help inspire ALL women worldwide to believe that they are unique and need to believe in themselves, their purpose, and the value they bring to others.

"WITI supports women worldwide in technology more than ever as they continue to leave tech in droves while facing challenges such as equal pay, recognition for their work, and promotions at executive levels," explains Carolyn Leighton, WITI founder and chairwoman. We are excited to have such a diverse and acclaimed group of speakers who will share how they are not only "talking the talk" but are also "walking the walk" to overcome the obstacles and challenges they have and continue to face in their careers."

About The Annual Summit
The Annual Summit continues to bring together a diverse group of speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees who want to empower, inspire, and build communities of professional, women in technology. WITI's mission is to help women and men understand that advancing women is good for business, help women replace their anger and frustration with strategy, and replace competition with collaboration.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Patricia Arquette, Actor, Humanitarian, Co-Founder of GiveLove
"Emboldening Women To Believe They Have A Purpose"

Linda Bernardi, Chief Innovation Officer, Cloud And IoT, IBM
"Disruption, Innovation, IoT, and Women: Disrupt to Succeed!"

Tiffani Bova, Vice President And Distinguished Analyst, Gartner
"Reimagine IT: The Digital Dragon is Upon Us!"

Sandy Carter, General Manager/Cloud Ecosystem & Developers, And Social Business Evangelist, IBM
"Geek Girls are Chic: Five Career Hacks"

Wendy Wallbridge, President / Executive Coach, On Your Mark
"Spiraling Up for the WITI Summit!"

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation is holding it's second high quality, exciting and technically challenging one week residential Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp for African Girls ages 13-17.

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/17/2014 -- Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation's camp will be held from July 28th to August 2nd at the Global International School Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria from July 28th to August 2nd, 2014. The theme of the 2014 camp is Robotics and Computer Programming and Renewable Energy for Africa.

"The learning objective is to ensure girls think of Science and Technology as tools to help them innovate to enable real problem solving in their communities", says Dr. Unoma Okorafor, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of WAAW Foundation organization. She stated that the camp will focus on using locally available materials to teach technology innovation to these girls.

The Program Director, Ms. Tolulope Owajoba said "The camp will use an integrated learning approach centered on the theme to show how robotics, computer science and programming are useful for solving significant problems in Africa, including electricity generation. The girls will learn to use locally available items and tools so that when camp is over, they will be able to continue to innovate with what they can find in their communities."

This camp is made possible with our recent partnership with Emerging Leaders in Technology (ELiTE) and the generous donations from Google Rise, Engineering Information Foundation (EIF), Africa Education Initiative (NEF), Co-Creation Hub Nigeria (CCHub), Etisalat, IBM, Cocacola, Brunel Engineering, El Mansur Architects, Technova Africa,

The Robotics STEM camp, will include hands on activities, lectures, tutorials, experiments and field trips, all led and presented by female role models like Professor Peju Layiwola, renowned bronze caster and lecturer of Arts and Art History at University of Lagos and Ore Somolu, the Executive Director of Women Technology Empowering Center (WTEC), as an avenue to interest and excite the girls about STEM careers.

When asked about the criteria for qualification, the Executive Director of WAAW, Mrs. Ebele Agu states that "This camp is for African girls between the ages of 13 and 17 years who are currently enrolled in Senior Secondary School SS1 through SS3 within the African continent. We feel that this is the age where girls are making crucial decisions about their careers. This is when we can make a lasting impression on the girls and help them form peer networks that they can draw on throughout their careers".

The STEM Camp Program will include:
Students building a robot to solve green energy challenges such as trash sorting.
Students building renewable energy systems such as solar cars and Wind Mill systems.
Students exploring science, engineering and Math topics to support camp theme.
Students participating in intense team building exercises.

There will also be time for fun! The camp schedules a number of activities that include swimming, pizza parties, art classes, dance classes, career fair, wii playing and karaoke. Participants will experience dorm life, cafeteria food and learn what it is like to be on a college campus.

Participants are African girls (ages 13 – 17) who show high aptitude and interest in STEM disciplines, drawn both from government or public schools fed by low income families, who otherwise would not have the opportunity to learn about or be exposed to possible STEM careers, and from private schools. The aim of the camp is to challenge traditional African societal beliefs that female education is wasted resources and demonstrate that STEM innovation helps solve real problems in the communities in which our participants live.

ABOUT WAAW FOUNDATION
WAAW Foundation is a U.S. based 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in technology innovation to benefit Africa.

Our Vision:
-To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
-To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
-To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
-To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:
To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice
Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:
-Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.
-Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

WAAW Foundation is pleased to announce the sponsors for the annual scholarship given to deserving girls who have demonstrated financial need and have an excellent academic record. WAAW awards scholarships of $500/year for African women who have gained undergraduate admission to an institution of higher learning in Africa and are studying a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) related course.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/02/2014 -- Africa Education Initiative (NEF) donated $500. NEF is a non-profit organization determined to improve the quality of education and healthcare of Africa's children. The mission of the Foundation is to further the advancement of science and engineering in Africa. Through its education assistance program, the Foundation strives to promote academic research in institutions. The Foundation supports scholars pursuing a vast spectrum of professions. NEF founder, Dr. Chudy Nduaka said, "NEF is delighted to support scholarships for African girls seeking STEM education to assist them at critical stages of their education".

Technova Africa donated $500. Technova Africa comprises Technova Energy and Technova Construction. Technova Energy, a 100% Africa-owned Energy Company, is an indigenous Offshore, Onshore & Subsea Engineering Company in Nigeria. Technova Construction Nigeria LTD is an indigenous Engineering & Building Construction Company which focuses on creating quality structures and offering complete construction packages to her ever increasing clients. CEO Engineer Nobert Oleah said, "Technova Africa is delighted to support WAAW foundation so as to give African girls a chance to develop their potential and succeed in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math & Computer science".

Brunel Engineering donated $1000. Brunel is a wholly indigenous company, a Nigerian brand committed to the relentless pursuit of excellence in the industry, ensuring best practice. Alexander Onuegbu, Chief Executive Officer of Brunel based in Abuja stated, "I would say STEM and CS disciplines are too important to be left to men, we have to open doors like the WAAW foundation STEM camp for young African girls to explore and develop their potential in STEM at an early age".

WAAW Foundation believes that female education and STEM innovation are key drivers for economic development of any region. Our overarching objective is to elevate the standards of STEM education among female Africans, and eliminate the huge disparity between the numbers of boys versus girls entering STEM related careers in Africa. WAAW works in the entire African sub region to promote its objectives, with specific presence in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana. Our programs are geared towards building STEM capacity among African girls and promote African innovation, and include Scholarships for college Girls in STEM disciplines, STEM camps for girls ages 11 through 15 and STEM Cell Initiatives to benefit secondary school girls.

As part of the scholarship requirements, each of these girls will be a part of our STEM Cell Fellows that will initiate STEM Cell Units in various Secondary schools in their home country; this is an opportunity for the girls to also give back to their communities and start encouraging other young women to consider and remain in STEM Education.

ABOUT WAAW FOUNDATION
WAAW Foundation is a U.S. based 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in technology innovation to benefit Africa.

Our Vision:
-To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
-To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
-To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
-To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:
To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice
Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:
-Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.
-Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

WAAW Foundation is currently running a campaign on Indiegogo seeking funding for its 2014 STEM Camps.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/20/2014 -- WAAW Foundation's STEM camp is for African girls aged 13 -17 years, from low income families, who otherwise would never have an opportunity to experience STEM learning in a fun, interactive and hands-on way, arming them with tools that will encourage innovation and make them problem solvers in their communities. The camp is geared towards girls who are currently enrolled in high school (SS1-SS3) and who show interest in Science and Technology.

Camp participants will learn to build exciting robots on the NXT platform, build renewable energy systems such as solar and Wind Mill systems, learn basic computer science concepts and be introduced to programming using Arduino and raspberry pi platform, playing with blockly program, participate in team building exercises etc.

WAAW Foundation's Founder and CEO, Dr. Unoma Okoroafor who started the Indiegogo campaign in collaboration with Google RISE shares her experience and her motivation to found WAAW Foundation, she said, "When I got to the United states to pursue my graduate students in computer Engineering, I was stunned by the huge differences between the education I was getting and what we had been exposed to in Africa. Many in Africa are learning with obsolete materials, without access to any tools, or exposure to hands-on applications. Our teaching methods are based on rote memorization which stifles innovation and promote dependency."

WAAW Foundation seeks to change this situation for the girls, especially those from low income families and are asking for your help in donating to their campaign. The goal is to raise $5000 and Google has promised, through the Google Rise Program to give $1000 in matching funds for every $1000 we raise before June 1, 2014.

The Executive Director of WAAW Foundation Mrs. Ebele Agu is urging the public, "To donate to this worthy cause, no amount is too small since it will go thus far."

For more information and to donate visit the Indiegogo campaign page and make your generous donation.

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW Foundation is a U.S. based 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in technology innovation to benefit Africa.

Our Vision:
-To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
-To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
-To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
-To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:
To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice
Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:
-Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.
-Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

WAAW Foundation has awarded the 2014 Scholarships to five female African students. These recipients have demonstrated financial need and have excellent academic records.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/19/2014 -- The scholarships of $500/year are for African women who have gained undergraduate admission to an institution of higher learning in Africa and are studying a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) related course.

WAAW Foundation believes that female education and STEM innovation are key drivers for economic development of any region. Our overarching objective is to elevate the standards of STEM education among female Africans, and eliminate the huge disparity between the numbers of boys versus girls entering STEM related careers in Africa. WAAW works in the entire African sub region to promote its objectives, with specific presence in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana. Our programs are geared towards building STEM capacity among African girls and promote African innovation, and include Scholarships for college Girls in STEM disciplines, STEM camps for girls ages 11 through 15 and STEM Cell Initiatives to benefit secondary school girls.

The following 5 women have been chosen from over 1000 applications received from 34 countries of origin.

-Monica Gitundu, from Kenya, is studying Electrical and Computer Engineering at the
University of Nairobi. Monica's goal is to come up with efficient and reliable energy sources so as reduce the cost of manufacturing and transport in Africa and to mentor other young African girls to realize their dreams and be competent engineers.

-Odette Mih, from Cameroon, is studying Electrical Engineering at the National Advanced School of Engineering. Odette looks forward to working together with WAAW Foundation in order to give hope to other young girls out there whose dreams are at the point of being abolished as a result of lack of inspiration, motivation, knowledge, information and funds.

-Lilian Kamara, from Uganda, is studying Computer Science at Makerere University. Lilian intends to contribute to the development of health systems in Africa, and to use the opportunity during the STEM program to share her vision and goals with other girls.

-Christiana Iyasele, from Nigeria, is studying Chemical Engineering at Delta State University. As a female Chemical Engineer, Odette wishes to contribute to the growth and development of Cameroon by becoming directly involved with the chemical processes taking place and encouraging more female to embrace engineering fields as an ultimate choice.

-Damaris Waema, from Kenya, is studying Computer Science at Jomo-Kenyetta University. Damaris plans to become a lecturer in IT and Computer Science/Technology and to start a charitable organization to help women, especially those from the marginalized communities, know their role in the community, as well as championing for more women to get into STEM based careers.

Dr. Unoma Okorafor the Founder and Chief Executive of WAAW Foundation, in a message to the young women said, "You have worked hard to reach where you are in your STEM education. WAAW Foundation is here to support your ambitions and ensure that your dreams are materialized and will open opportunities in encouraging your innovations in the STEM field."

As part of the scholarship requirements, each of these girls will be a part of our STEM Cell Fellows that will initiate STEM Cell Units in various Secondary schools in their home country; this is an opportunity for the girls to also give back to their communities and start encouraging other young women to consider and remain in STEM Education.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women Foundation and the Emerging Leaders in Technology and Engineering, ELiTE are partnering to promote African girls' interest and excitement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) and Computer Science fields in 2014.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/10/2014 -- Working to Advance STEM Education for African women (WAAW) Foundation works to build the pipeline of African girls in STEM and CS, and engage this talent in innovation for the African continent. The Emerging Leaders in Technology and Engineering, ELiTE utilizes open source technology to increase access to STEM training across the globe through low-cost labs and experiments coupled with rigorous curricula. This partnership opportunity will provide computer science, mechatronics, and robotics programming for more than 5,000 girls in Sub-Saharan Africa with the support of the Google 2014 Root In Science and Engineering (RISE) Partnership awards. According to Google, "these awards aim to encourage collaboration across organizations in pursuit of a shared goal of increasing global participation in computer science".

WAAW Foundation was recognized and selected for the 2014 Google RISE Award based on its initiatives focusing and impacting African girls in STEM and computing education. Google stated that "Our RISE award recipients are change makers: they engage, educate, and excite students about STEM & computing through extracurricular outreach…With the technology industry predicted to grow at a faster rate than all other sectors, the need for this global effort has never been as apparent as it is now. We're excited to work with an amazing group of innovators and educators in 2014!''.

The Google RISE award will enable WAAW foundation to expand the impact of one of its initiatives, the STEM College to secondary school outreach program by providing further training to the college students as well as set up the necessary resources for a more effective STEM cell office that will improve the functioning and expand the impact of the Cell. Funds will go towards items like Setting up a Content Resource Website (CRW), purchase of necessary teaching resources, purchase of re-useable STEM demonstration kits and development of initial teaching content . Funds will also be used to train fellows in the use, maintenance and extension of the CRW as well as skill that will make them successful as role models such as secondary school pedagogy and state standards for specific STEM areas.

WAAW Foundation STEM outreach program was launched in 2013 to bridge the secondary school-to-college continuum for Science Technology Engineering, Math (STEM) in Africa and ultimately increases the pipeline of African girls entering STEM careers. It is aimed at promoting sustainable, feed forward self-help initiatives that will target African girls in particular, and expose them to advanced curriculum, hands on experience and female role models in STEM and computing careers.

The goals of WAAW STEM outreach program are as follows:

- Train STEM graduate and University students to develop an avocation of contributing to K-12 STEM education by facilitating University student-led outreach programs aimed at STEM tutoring and mentoring for younger students (ages 11-15) in surrounding Secondary Schools.

- Integrate higher education research and innovation into secondary school learning by fostering interactions between secondary school students, and college/graduate students and academic professionals that will influence secondary school career selection toward STEM. Our program will expose STEM graduate students and faculty to secondary school students and vice versa, thereby resulting in improved interest for University students, and advanced understanding of STEM fields for Secondary students.

- Help secondary schools to reduce the consequences of insufficient qualifications of STEM teachers by injecting Graduate students with STEM and CS hands on and research knowledge into Secondary classrooms, and advancing discovery through STEM integrative, inquiry-based curricula and interaction with STEM Cell Fellows.

- Provide secondary school students with first hand STEM career knowledge and opportunity at the secondary school level, through the development of sustained partnerships with graduate students at universities and higher education institutions.

- Providing an opportunity for University students to provide sustained engagement, monitoring and impact to Secondary schools students and a reliable avenue to directly identify secondary school girls with keen interest and aptitude toward STEM as potential candidates to engage in the WAAW annual summer STEM camp.

- Develop a transportable and scalable model for the institutionalization of a sustainable secondary school partnership with higher education STEM departments, and illustrate the value of secondary school involvement for training STEM graduate students in communication, organization, productions, evaluation and molding the complete STEM individual.

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW Foundation is a 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in African innovation.

Our Vision:

- To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
- To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
- To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
- To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:

To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice

Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:

- Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.

- Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline .

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/15/2014 -- Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation was awarded a grant of $18,000 from the Engineering Information Foundation for the expansion of the STEM camp program in Abuja, Nigeria. This grant will be used specifically to provide the following for the 2014 camp participants: Science teaching kits, robotics & renewable energy kits, camp materials & package, feeding, boarding, transportation and stipends for facilitators.

In July 2013, WAAW Foundation launched Its first one- week residential Robotics and Renewable energy camp in Lagos, Nigeria. The camp impacted 26 African girls from poor socio-economic background in Public schools in Lagos, Nigeria. These African girls had a chance to explore STEM disciplines while being introduced to technologies that use locally available resources to solve significant problems in their communities. The camp used hands on activities, lectures, tutorials, experiments and games, led by female role models, as an avenue to engage young African girls and develop their interest in STEM fields and disciplines. Following up on this effort, WAAW Foundation proposed to expand the STEM camp in 2014 to two locations , Lagos and Abuja in Nigeria. The EIF grant will support the expansion of the STEM Camp and provide opportunities for African girls to participate in an exciting and technically challenging week-long immersion in science, technology and engineering at an age they are impressionable and making critical decisions about their future careers.

The Engineering Information Foundation mission is to improve worldwide engineering education and practice through information technology and the recruitment of women. The EIF grant is awarded to promote initiatives that help young women to be interested in Engineering as a career and to keep young women in engineering through college and beyond. "Our foundation is interested in funding programs to encourage middle school girls in Engineering conducted by engineering educators and others that encourage them to prepare for and take careers in engineering".

The Founder of WAAW Foundation, Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor very pleased with this award, said, "The EIF grant is a gift that will keep on giving, and will have impact in the local communities and Africa in general. EIF has given us the opportunity of a lifetime to ignite the fire of scientific inquiry research in African girls. The grant will present STEM in new ways to young girls who otherwise would not consider careers in STEM fields or even pursue college education and also, ."

The objectives of WAAW STEM Camp for African girls are:

1. Expose camp participants to technologies, tools, and resources that can enhance Math, Science and CS education.

2. Provide opportunities to research, design, build and experiments to generate sustainable green energy for the African continent based on locally available resources.

3. Provide African girls the opportunity to form peer support networks.

4. Provide girls with opportunities for career counseling in STEM fields and expose them to successful STEM female role models.

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW Foundation is a 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in African innovation.

Our Vision:

- To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
- To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
- To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
- To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:

To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice

Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:

- Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.

- Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline .

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The Anita Borg Institute recognized WAAW Foundation Founder, Dr Unoma Ndili Okorafor, who demonstrated leadership through her contribution to technology in Africa.

Wylie, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/11/2013 -- WAAW (Working to Advance African Women) Foundation is proud and excited to announce that our founder, Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor received the Anita Borg Award on October 3, 2013. She was selected for her innovation, leadership, and successful contribution in increasing the impacts of African Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Computer science. She received this award at the 13th Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing (GHC) in Minneapolis, MN, United States in company with WAAW Foundation Operations Director, Frances Van Sloan and our 2013 STEM Camp Facilitator, Dr. Kaye Smith, who attended this ceremony to support her great work.

Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor is a firm believer in female education along with technology innovation to end poverty in Africa. In January 2007, while working to obtain her Ph.D. in electrical and computer Engineering at the Texas A & M University, Dr. Unoma Ndili Okorafor, moved by passion, a personal awareness of the huge technological and digital divide between Africa and many developed nations, and the recognition that technology innovation play a crucial role in economic development and poverty alleviation of any nation, founded WAAW foundation, a 501 © non-profit organization (EIN 20-8576703) incorporated in the state of Texas, U.S.A. and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria.

WAAW's programs focus on utilizing locally available resources to solve relevant problems in African communities through Robotics camps, Scholarships and college to secondary outreach and mentoring programs. To date, WAAW foundation has provided 9 college scholarships, launched 6 STEM college-to-secondary outreach cells in 5 African countries (Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya (2), South Africa, Malawi) impacting over 4000 secondary students, and launched a STEM Robotics Camp for over 30 girls in Nigeria in 2013

ABOUT ANITA BORG INSTITUTE
The Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology (ABI) connects, inspires, and guides women in computing and organizations that view technology innovation as a strategic imperative. It was founded in 1997 by computer scientist Anita Borg. ABI believes technology innovation powers the global economy, and that women are crucial to building technology the world needs. As a social enterprise, ABI recognizes women making positive contributions, and advice organizations on how to improve performance by building more inclusive teams.

Thousands of women throughout the world are leading technology innovation. They often go unnoticed and unrewarded. WAAW Foundation appreciates the Anita Borg Institute for honouring and appreciating our distinguished founder, Dr. Unoma Okorafor with the 2013 ABI Systers Award.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

WAAW Foundation has awarded the 2013 Scholarships to four female African students. These recipients have demonstrated financial need and have excellent academic records.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/20/2013 -- The scholarships of $500/year are for African women who have gained undergraduate admission to an institution of higher learning in Africa and are studying a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) related course.

WAAW Foundation believes that female education and STEM innovation are key drivers for economic development of any region. Our overarching objective is to elevate the standards of STEM education among female Africans, and eliminate the huge disparity between the numbers of boys versus girls entering STEM related careers in Africa. WAAW works in the entire African sub region to promote its objectives, with specific presence in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana. Our programs are geared towards building STEM capacity among African girls and promote African innovation, and include Scholarships for college Girls in STEM disciplines, STEM camps for girls ages 11 through 15 and STEM Cell Initiatives to benefit secondary school girls.

"This year was more competitive than previous years and most of the girls were promising, but only those who were able to meet all of the criteria were selected," said the Executive Director for WAAW Scholarship Initiative Mrs. Amara Okafor.

The following 4 women have been chosen from over 700 applications received from 31 countries of origin.

- Mercy Aboh, from Nigeria, is studying Agriculture and Bio-Resources Engineering at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria
- Kondana Kamsesa, from Malawi, is studying Economics and Mathematics at the Catholic University of Malawi
- Rose Macharia, from Kenya, is studying Medicine and Surgery at Kenyetta University
- Winnie Mogusu, from Kenya, is studying Civil and Construction Engineering, University of Nairobi

Dr. Unoma Okoroafor the Founder and Chief Executive of WAAW Foundation in a message to the young women said, "You have worked hard to reach were you are in your STEM education, WAAW Foundation is here to support your ambitions and ensure that your dreams are materialized and will open opportunities in encouraging your innovations in the STEM field."

As part of the scholarship requirements, each of these girls will be a part of our STEM Cell Fellows that will start STEM Cell Units in various Secondary schools in their home country; this is an opportunity for the girls to also give back to their communities and start encouraging other young women to consider and remain in STEM Education.

About WAAWW Foundation
WAAW Foundation is a 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in African innovation.

Our Vision:
- To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
- To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
- To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
- To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:
To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice
Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:
- Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.
- Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation is launching a high quality, exciting and technically challenging one week residential Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp for African Girls in Senior Secondary School (9th to 12th Grades). The theme of the camp is Robotics and Renewable Energy. The camp will be help from July 28th to August 3rd in Lagos, Nigeria.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/25/2013 -- Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW), in partnership with the Women's Technology Empowerment Center (W.TEC)Nigeria will launch its one-week residential Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp at the Laureates College in Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria from July 28th to August 2nd, 2013. The theme of the 2013 camp is ROBOTICS AND RENEWABLE ENERGY.

The Director of WAAW STEM Camp initiative, Ms. Ifeyinwa Okoye said "The camp will use an integrated learning approach centered around the theme to show how robotics, computer science and programming are useful for solving significant problems in Africa, including electricity generation. The girls will learn to use locally available items and tools so that when camp is over, they will be able to continue to innovate with what they can find in their communities."

The Robotics STEM camp, the first of its kind in Africa, will include hands on activities, lectures, tutorials, experiments and field trips, all led and presented by female role models as an avenue to interest and excite the girls about STEM careers.

Camp applications will open in March online at http://waawfoundation.org. Campers will be selected through a screening process and individual interviews. Successful candidates will be notified the first week of May 2013.

When asked about the criteria for qualification, the Executive Director of WAAW, Mrs. Ebele Agu states that "This camp is for African girls between the ages of 13 and 17 years who are currently enrolled in Senior Secondary School (SS1) through SS3 within the African continent. We feel that this is the age where girls are making crucial decisions about their careers. This is when we can make a lasting impression on the girls and help them form peer networks that they can draw on through out their careers".

The STEM Camp Program will include:

- Students building a robot to solve green energy challenges such as trash sorting.
- Students building renewable energy systems such as solar and Wind Mill systems.
- Students exploring science, engineering and Math topics to support camp theme.
- Students participating in intense team building exercises.

There will also be time for fun! The camp schedules a number of activities that include swimming, pizza parties, baking classes, dance classes, career fair, wii playing and karaoke. Participants will experience dorm life, cafeteria food and learn what it is like to be on a college campus.

"The learning objective is to ensure girls think of Science and Technology as tools to help them innovate to enable real problem solving in their communities", says Dr. Unoma Okorafor, the founder of WAAW Foundation organization.

Participants are African girls (ages 13 – 17) who show high aptitude and interest in STEM disciplines. drawn both from government or public schools fed by low income families. who otherwise would not have the opportunity to learn about or be exposed to possible STEM careers. and from private schools. The aim of the camp is to challenge traditional African societal beliefs that female education is wasted resources and demonstrate that STEM innovation helps solve real problems in the communities in which our participants live.

About WAAW Foundation
WAAW Foundation is a 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science. Technology. Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines. and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in African innovation.

Our Vision:

- To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
- To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
- To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
- To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:

- To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice
- Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:

- Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.
- Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation recently was awarded a grant from Google Rise – Roots in Science and Engineering. This grant will enable WAAW Foundation to expand and continue the STEM Outreach program providing role models from universities to secondary school students.

Wylie, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/21/2013 -- Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation recently was awarded a $20,000 grant from Google Rise – Roots in Science and Engineering. This grant will enable WAAW expand the impact of one of its initiatives, the STEM Cell (Unit) and conduct training of Fellows at the African University of Science and Technology, Abuja Nigeria For Greater impact in the Secondary School STEM Outreach programs.

WAAW STEM Outreach program was established to promote STEM learning for Government Junior Secondary School Students. The Award will expand the impact of the STEM Cell (Unit) and conduct training of Fellows at the African University of Science and Technology, Abuja Nigeria for greater impact in the Secondary School STEM Outreach programs.

According to Google RISE, the awards are designed to promote and support Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) and Computer Science (CS) education initiatives. "We grant awards to organizations working with K-12/Primary and Secondary schools to provide enrichment programs in these fields."

"Google believes that technology will continue to play an important role in shaping our future, and the youth of today will help innovate and drive these technologies for years to come. We hope that all students will one day have the chance to reach their potential and achieve great things in science. To that end, we aspire to help students take one step closer to achieving their potential by offering organizational growth and development opportunities through the Google RISE Awards."

Award amounts range from $5,000 - $25,000 USD.

The Founder of WAAW Foundation, Dr. Unoma Okoroafor very pleased with this achievement, said, "The Google RISE grant will be used to provide further training to the students as well as set up the necessary resources for a more effective STEM cell office, that will improve the functioning and expand the impact of the Cell."

Funds will go towards items like Setting up a Content Resource Website (CRW), purchase of necessary teaching resources, purchase of re-useable STEM demonstration kits and development of initial teaching content. Funds will also be used to train fellows in the use, maintenance and extension of the CRW as well as gain skills that will make them successful as role models.

The goals of our project are as follows:

- Train STEM graduate and University students to develop an avocation of contributing to K-12 STEM education by facilitating University student-led outreach programs aimed at STEM tutoring and mentoring for younger students (ages 11-15) in surrounding Secondary Schools.

- Integrate higher education research and innovation into secondary school learning by fostering interactions between secondary school students, and college/graduate students and academic professionals that will influence secondary school career selection toward STEM. Our program will expose STEM graduate students and faculty to secondary school students and vice versa, thereby resulting in improved interest for University students, and advanced understanding of STEM fields for Secondary students.

- Help secondary schools to reduce the consequences of insufficient qualifications of STEM teachers by injecting Graduate students with STEM and CS hands on and research knowledge into Secondary classrooms, and advancing discovery through STEM integrative, inquiry-based curricula and interaction with STEM Cell Fellows.

- Provide secondary school students with first hand STEM career knowledge and opportunity at the secondary school level, through the development of sustained partnerships with graduate students at universities and higher education institutions.

- Providing an opportunity for University students to provide sustained engagement, monitoring and impact to Secondary schools students and a reliable avenue to directly identify secondary school girls with keen interest and aptitude toward STEM as potential candidates to engage in the WAAW annual summer STEM camp.

- Develop a transportable and scalable model for the institutionalization of a sustainable secondary school partnership with higher education STEM departments, and illustrate the value of secondary school involvement for training STEM graduate students in communication, organization, productions, evaluation and molding the complete STEM individual.

About WAAW Foundation:
WAAW Foundation is a 501(c) Non Profit organization whose mission is to increase the pipeline of African women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) related disciplines, and work to ensure that this talent is engaged in African innovation.

Our Vision:

- To train and engage women leaders who contribute to technology and economic growth in Africa.
- To become the premier international partner of choice within a global movement dedicated to ending poverty in Africa through female education.
- To be globally recognized for our unshakable commitment to the empowerment of African women.
- To contribute towards poverty eradication in African through Science and Technology research and innovation

Our Strategy:

To Empower African Women With A Strong Voice

Exposing, motivating and mentoring them in their pursuit of rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology related fields by: Educating and providing opportunities for education and promoting sustainable technology research and innovation activities for African Women.

Build STEM Communities that strengthen impact for African women by:

- Promoting avenues that will bring African women leaders and organizations from private industry, academia and governments to share ideas, collaborate, mentor and build and retain technology capacity in Africa.

- Building vibrant communities that engage girls with role models and mentors to ensure an ever increasing pipeline .

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm