Message from the Chair: Celebrating 10 years of inspiring future innovators

Gaylene Hughes

First of all, a heartfelt thank you to you — our readers, supporters, alumnae, teachers, parents, programme partners, and investors. Your belief in Innovative Young Minds (IYM) and in our mission to open doors for young women in STEMM has carried us to this remarkable milestone: 10 years of programmes, impact, and possibility.

It’s hard to believe a decade has passed since IYM first began. What hasn’t changed is the thrill I feel each year when I see the energy and excitement on the faces of the young women who join our programmes — that moment when they realise just how many opportunities in STEMM are waiting for them. Those sparks of curiosity, energy and confidence are what IYM was built for.

We know we’re making a difference. We see it in the pathways our alumnae take, the subjects they choose, the internships they secure, and the careers they choose. Yet the truth is: there is still so much more potential to unlock. That’s both inspiring — and a challenge we’re determined to meet.

Looking ahead, our next chapter is focused on two things:

• Telling more of our alumnae stories — the real-world successes that show what’s possible when young women are given access, encouragement, and opportunity.

• Refreshing and expanding our programme content — ensuring what we offer remains relevant, future-focused, and reflective of the emerging fields shaping tomorrow’s world.

Like many not-for‑-profit organisations, our biggest challenge is ensuring financial sustainability. We firmly believe‑ IYM should be seen not simply as a charitable cause, but as an investment — one that delivers tangible, measurable long-term value:

• a stronger pipeline of future interns and employees

• increased diversity and retention

• higher productivity and innovation outcomes

As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, we invite you — our community — to help us continue this work. If you’ve ever seen the spark of confidence IYM ignites, if you’ve met one of our alumnae, or if you believe in the power of giving young women access to STEMM pathways, a donation of any size genuinely helps us reach more students and expand our impact. Please donate here if you can.

Thank you again for standing with us over the past decade. With your support, the next 10 years can be even more transformative.