We then welcomed our wonderful panelists and explored together how we can accelerate action for women in STEAM sectors. How can we attract them to and educate them in STEAM sectors? How can we make sure to succeed as women in STEAM? How can we empower other women? Of course, we had to give you their key takeaways.

1. Navigating Identity in Japan – Cecilia shared her experience as a woman of color in Japan, highlighting the challenge of navigating both foreign and local professional communities. Her advice: assert yourself and turn disadvantages into strengths.
2. Breaking Bias in Entrepreneurship – Apolline recounted her journey as a half-Japanese, half-French entrepreneur in Japan. She emphasized the importance of overcoming internalized bias and challenging societal norms around caregiving and professional identity.
3. Gender Stereotypes in Tech – Kumiko discussed the stark gender imbalance in Japan’s tech industry, comparing it with her experiences abroad. She stressed the need for systemic change, inclusive policies, and challenging the "Rikejo" stereotype of women in STEM.
4. Career Growth & Sponsorship – Kristina, with 30 years of experience in Japan, highlighted the importance of sponsorship over mentorship. She urged women to seek advocates in leadership roles to support their advancement.
5. Attracting Women to STEAM – Kumiko and Cecilia emphasized the power of representation, mentorship, and confidence-building to counteract cultural expectations that dissuade young girls from pursuing STEAM careers.
6. Self-Advocacy & Visibility – Apolline reminded us that women often do invisible work. She encouraged active self-promotion, challenging perfectionism, and making bold career moves. Special tip! Use the 20-80% rule: put 20% of your energy in creating your contents, and 80% in promoting it! 
7. Building Inclusive Workplaces – The panelists underscored the need for workplaces to accommodate diverse needs, including parental responsibilities, and emphasized the importance of flexible policies to retain women in STEAM.
8. The Role of Mentorship – Creating strong peer and mentor networks was a recurring theme. Cecilia and Kumiko shared how initiatives like Lean In Circles and Diversity Cafés can foster inclusive spaces. You should do the same in your workspace, and wherever you can!

The Future of Women in STEAM – While challenges persist, the panelists were optimistic about Japan’s policy shifts and the changing perspectives of younger generations. They even told us how we can use some of Japan’s patriarchal cultural aspects to our own advantage! More on that later…