Professor Yamni Nigam is shortlisted for the Woman in STEM category at the awards, organised by equality charity Chwarae Teg while student Andrea Garvey has been nominated for the Learner title.

Professor Nigam, a world-renowned expert on the science and therapeutic use of maggots, picked up a national WISE Award for her dedication to promoting her profession last year and said she was thrilled to be recognised for the honour.

 ‌She said:  “It’s fabulous and tremendously rewarding to consider that others, especially younger girls, may be influenced by this, and become inspired and motivated enough to breach gender stereotypes and become equally involved in STEM careers.”

 “I feel absolutely honoured and delighted that our STEM work is being recognised.”

Andrea, who is studying a Master’s in Applied Criminology and Criminal Justice, said: “It feels great be shortlisted for awards, because I have an association with Chwarae Teg. In 2012, I did the Agile Nation Leadership Award, which it funded. Completing this made me feel really empowered and  inspired me to start my learning journey.”

During her undergraduate degree, Andrea was heavily involved with a project on the miscarriage of justice which saw her present her findings to experts including senior lawyers, forensic scientists and journalists. ‌She said: “I went from there to doing a distance learning course, followed by a degree in law at Swansea University, and now I’m doing my master’s so to be shortlisted by Chwarae Teg is just very special to me.”

The Womenspire Awards celebrates the remarkable achievements of inspirational women from all walks of life, and showcases the contribution of organisations making gender equality a reality in Wales.

Louise David, from Chwarae Teg said: “It truly showcases the talents, passions and accomplishments of Welsh women, and aims to inspire future generations. The STEM category celebrates women who, through their own careers, are advancing the STEM sectors in Wales while encouraging other women and girls into those disciplines.”

Hosted by Shân Cothi, the 2019 awards will take place at St Fagan’s National Museum of History, on July 4.

Pictured above: Professor Yamni Nigam (top) and Andrea Garvey.