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Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre hosts girls and tech workshops

Photo courtesy of Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre

To honour International Day of the Girl, Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre organized girls and tech workshops from October 9 – 16 to expand existing learning opportunities and chart new pathways.

Occurring every October 11, this important day aims to highlight and address the needs and challenges girls’ face, while promoting girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights. This year’s theme was With Her: A Skilled GirlForce.

Wii Chiiwaakanak’s workshops focused on computational thinking, problem solving, coding, 3D design and printing, and using the Nintendo Switch and Labo.

”Exposure to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) from a young age can really spark an interest amongst girls and young women in science,” said Angeline Nelson, Community Learning and Engagement Director for UWinnipeg’s Office of Indigenous Affairs. “Through our free community outreach programming, such as the weeklong workshops in honour of International Day of the Girl, we hope to inspire a new generation of female scientists.”

In total, more than 125 girls from the Ka Ni Kanichihk Butterfly Club, Boys and Girls Club of Winnipeg, North Y Youth Centre, and Spence Neighbourhood Association’s Building Belonging program took part in these workshops.