Empowering the Next Generation of Makers: Alzenia Project x MakerGirl
Cynthia Plouché in conversation with Kathryn Daemicke
The Alzenia Project is committed to providing opportunities for education, financial literacy, and mentoring to create pathways for self-fulfillment and positive impacts for girls and women across the country. We are passionate about connecting people and ideas, and part of our mission is to support organizations that share these values. One of our grantees, MakerGirl, is a perfect example. MakerGirl is a student-led organization that empowers young girls through 3D printing and CAD design workshops. I had the pleasure of speaking with Kathryn Daemicke, Director of MakerGirl, to discuss the work of their organization and our partnership.
MakerGirl aims to educate the next generation of makers by offering 3D printing and CAD design workshops, each with a unique theme. Kathryn explains, “Every session is different, so participants can attend as many as they wish. We aim to teach MakerGirls about the topics we cover, while also sharing fun facts about famous women in STEM. And the best part? Each participant receives their 3D-printed design by mail after the session!”
Kathryn’s passion for MakerGirl is deeply personal. “I joined MakerGirl because I believe every girl deserves their dreams to be represented,” she reflects. “As a future educator, I understand the importance of creating opportunities and acknowledging the gender gap within STEM fields. Reflecting on my own experiences as a young girl, I recognize the limitations that women and girls face in STEM, both in the classroom and throughout their careers.”
She continues, “Now, I feel extremely lucky to be a part of the team here at MakerGirl, an organization that empowers girls like my young self with the opportunity to create and design their dreams. MakerGirl has created an inclusive environment where our goal is to instill confidence and creativity in girls, encouraging them to pursue their goals without hesitation.”
MakerGirl’s mission aligns perfectly with the Alzenia Project’s goal to support organizations that empower women and girls, especially in education and career readiness.
Kathryn reflects on the impact of the collaboration: “Partnering with the Alzenia Project has been incredible. Their support allows us to expand our reach and inspire even more girls to pursue their passions in STEM. It’s partnerships like these that enable us to create a lasting impact.”
As the Alzenia Project and MakerGirl continue to work together, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. Kathryn shared a story of one participant’s experience: “There was a young girl who designed a miniature rocket during one of our sessions. When she received it in the mail, her excitement was contagious. Her mother told us that she hasn’t stopped talking about how she wants to be an astronaut one day.”
Together, the Alzenia Project and MakerGirl aim to inspire many more girls to believe in themselves and their potential. By developing confidence and creativity through education and hands-on learning experiences, they hope to close the gender gap in STEM and help girls reach their fullest potential.
If you’re interested in learning more about MakerGirl and their programs, visit their website or connect with Kathryn Daemicke on LinkedIn.
To meet other Alzenia Project grantees, visit the Alzenia Project website; or to get involved, connect with Cynthia Plouché on LinkedIn.
