Speaking up, the climate crisis, and being on the crest of a wave
#5

Speaking up, the climate crisis, and being on the crest of a wave

Speaking out about the things that matter, matters. This week Jasmine is diving into the deep end with Professor of Climate Science and Energy, Alice Larkin (she/her), and Ishita Somwanshi (she/her) a first year Materials Science and Engineering student.

When you find yourself riding the crest of a wave, Alice argues it’s important to bring others along with you. Be it in climate science or creating equal opportunities, Alice and Ishita both agree that we can’t change the world by ourselves – it takes a village! 

From decoding gendered language to reducing shipping emissions, this episode is filled with both newsworthy topics and unexpected directions. Join us to learn why it’s so important to speak up for our peers, even when they’re not in the room, and why it’s okay if your journey into STEM hasn’t been a straight line because together, our differences make us stronger. As Alice would say, ‘It isn’t about individuals, it’s about the collective’.

So put your headphones on, get comfy, and join us as we sit down and share our stories, perspectives, and have a good old laugh too. If you thought you didn’t have sisters to turn to for advice, yes you do. 

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Follow us on Instagram: @bigsistersinstem

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7EsaXJ4hJDw

About the guests

Where do we begin introducing Professor Alice Larkin (she/her)? Currently a Professor in Climate Science and Energy Policy at The Tyndall Centre, and previously Head of Engineering here at The University of Manchester,                  Alice has committed her career to making positive change. Be it through advocating for holistic sustainability solutions, or personally changing recruitment methods to use less gendered language, Alice goes above and beyond to create a better future for others. A true changemaker, we couldn’t be more honoured to have her join the Big Sisters community.  

As a first year Materials Science and Engineering student at The University of Manchester, Ishita Somwanshi (she/her) might be in her discovery phase, but she’s learning fast. Attracted to Materials in her pursuit to study something interdisciplinary, Ishita is keen to make a big impact and already investigating the sectors responsible for heavy fossil fuel usage, and how her skillset could help to create solutions for these. A scholarship holder with a natural ability for professional public speaking, Jasmine knew she wanted Ishita on the show as soon as they met: ‘Ishita has this ability to look at the big picture and quickly find puzzle pieces within it, which she could fill – watch this space!’.



Episode Video

Creators and Guests

Alice Stevens
Host
Alice Stevens
As one of five girls, I am a big, middle and younger sister all at once! My professional background is in journalism, so I love storytelling and spotlighting issues that really matter. Being Co-Host, Marketing Lead and Creative Strategist on this podcast is such a joy. Nothing beats when I hear that Big Sisters brings people comfort and community!
Jasmine Luby Barrow
Host
Jasmine Luby Barrow
Big sister by name, big sister by nature! I'm the creator of the Big Sisters in STEM brand, and now fill my time as Co-Host, Producer, Designer, and Campaign Strategist. When I'm not talking about education you can find me painting and writing my novel 👩‍🎨
Kory Stout
Editor
Kory Stout
I am a proud member of the Big Sister's in STEM team. I've worked at The University of Manchester for a decade and I am constantly in awe and inspired by the women who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in Science and Engineering.
Nick Parker
Editor
Nick Parker
I’m the resident Big Sisters sound guy, and also help to manage the delivery of the project. It’s been incredibly rewarding to help to establish this community of positive, supportive people, working to help lift each other up.