Schoolgirls inspired into STEM at first EmPowerCyber North East with Newcastle United Foundation

Hundreds of schoolgirls are taking their first steps towards a career in the North East’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics sector with support from Newcastle United Foundation.

EmPowerCyber North East is the first event of its kind in the region specifically targeting the next generation of female STEM leaders by educating and inspiring students about cyber security.

Dozens of industry experts including Sage, Newcastle United Foundation Technology Partner, joined the official charity arm of Newcastle United for the event at St. James’ Park which welcomed 300 teenagers from North East schools learn more about the STEM sector.

Through hands-on interactive cyber security and technology related activities, each student was introduced to regional and global organisations and universities at EmPowerCyber North East with the aim of inspiring young people to consider careers within the industry.

Caroline Brown, Business Network Coordinator at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We are proud to play our part in engaging and inspiring the next generation of women and girls who will go on to lead STEM industries here in the North East.

“We know many school students at the EmPowerCyber event will already aspire towards a future in STEM, but we also know this is an important opportunity to introduce young people to exciting organisations and career paths available to them.

“At Newcastle United Foundation, we are delighted to work with our Technology Partners Sage to make events like EmPowerCyber possible for the first time in our region and to ensure everyone has the tools and support they need to achieve their potential.”

The official charity arm of Newcastle United aims to introduce innovative ways of learning for youngsters alongside its official Technology Partner – Sage – headline sponsors of EmPowerCyber through its NU Futures programme.

Sage, a leader in account, financial, HR and payroll for small and mid-sized businesses, aim to provide technological support to the next generation through the Foundation, boosting ambitions, confidence and motivation to achieve.

Ben Aung, Chief Risk Officer at Sage, said: “We are committed to remove the barriers that young females face in entering STEM careers. Sponsoring the EmPowerCyber event was a great opportunity for us to help motivate young females into cyber security careers.

“It’s a fantastic tangible example of how we can make a difference from school age onwards by making careers in tech and cyber security exciting and accessible.

“STEM subjects are so exciting, it’s all focussed on the core skills of problem solving and being excited by the limitless potential of technology. EmPowerCyber is a great example of how businesses can unlock the clear potential young females within this region have.”

Among the students taking part in EmPowerCyber North East were pupils from Newcastle United Foundation’s Partner Schools and Premier League Inspires programmes delivered across the North East.

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