Empowering Women in STEM: The Society of Women Engineers at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus

Since its inception in 2021, the Society of Women Engineers BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (SWE BPDC) has emerged as a beacon for aspiring engineers in Dubai, UAE. This vibrant community plays a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive environment for women pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). As the only active SWE affiliate in the UAE and the Middle East, SWE BPDC has over 75 members and stands out as a crucial hub for mentorship, professional networking, and empowerment.

Leadership and Vision

Under the leadership of President Shifa Yashfeen, the core team is dedicated to building a close-knit community. The leadership team includes Vice President Shyma Sulthana, Events Executives Saanchi Kasar and Shraddha Rajesh, and Marketing Coordinator Aleakhya Pandeti. The team also benefits from the mentorship of Dr. Swarnalatha R, an associate dean and faculty member in the department of electrical and electronics engineering, who has been instrumental in establishing the affiliate and championing women in engineering.

The commitment of SWE BPDC extends beyond mere membership; they aspire to create a technically strong and engaged community through various technical events, networking sessions, and speaker panels, partnered with industry professionals and alumni. This proactive approach aims to broaden mentorship opportunities and skills development for members.

Signature Events

SWE BPDC has organized various innovative events that not only showcase talent but also offer practical learning experiences. Here’s a closer look:

• Lead or be Lead: The inaugural event in 2021 focused on exploring leadership styles and fostering capabilities in future leaders. Participants engaged in simple tasks that reflected their leadership qualities, enhancing their personal development.

• Shark Tank: This lively pitch event encouraged entrepreneurial spirits, where teams presented innovative ideas to a panel of judges. The stakes were high, and the winning pitch was rewarded with AED 50 in Amazon gift cards, igniting a competitive yet collaborative atmosphere.

• Puzzlex: This event had participants brainstorming and collaborating in teams to achieve a common goal, reminiscent of teamwork in tech companies. The winning team was awarded an AED 75 cash prize, promoting not just collaboration but also the spirit of creative problem-solving.

• Galentine’s Picnic: Each February, this event celebrates female camaraderie through interactive activities and insightful discussions. It provides a platform for women to offer mutual support and advice.

• BITS Tech Fest: This multidisciplinary competition held on April 30 allowed SWE BPDC to host a stall featuring STEM-based activities, where students showcased their creativity while learning crucial skills relevant to the digital age.

• Industry Insights: Events like the talk on “How do engineers make the world safer and more reliable?” featured influential speakers like Rubayith Tasbhia, providing students with real-world insights into engineering’s impact on society.

Recent Highlights

The past year has witnessed several enlightening initiatives, including webinars featuring accomplished alumni like Gurusshitha Subramanian and Joshita Pentapati, who shared their journeys as master’s students in biotechnology abroad. Their insights ranged from adapting to new cultures to the importance of early applications for higher studies.

Another notable event was a session led by Preethika Thiraviam, a former SWE President and current Ph.D. student at the University of Chicago. She discussed the significance of elective courses and extracurricular activities during her undergraduate years, offering valuable guidance to current students.

To add to the lineup, the International Women’s Day Celebration held on March 10 was a standout occasion, featuring expert discussions on health topics and a free medical check-up camp. With over 60 participants, the event underscored the importance of health and well-being among women engineers, emphasizing the impact of lifestyle choices on long-term health.

Upcoming Programs

The SWE BPDC is continuously looking to expand its membership, promising a range of benefits:

• Networking Opportunities: Members can engage with leaders in the engineering field, gaining mentorship and professional guidance.
• Exclusive Events: Tailored events designed to inspire and educate provide pathways for personal and professional growth.
• Discount Offers: Members enjoy access to exclusive resources and discounts for participation in events.

In an exciting development, SWE BPDC recently partnered with SWENextLA, highlighting a commitment to fostering global connections and cultural exchanges. This collaboration, along with initiatives with other SWE affiliates worldwide, emphasizes their dedication to empowering the next generation of engineers both locally and globally.

Connect with SWE BPDC through their active social channels on Instagram and LinkedIn to stay updated on their latest events and initiatives.