“In space, race doesn’t matter, nationality doesn’t matter. In space, you see the world as a globe and you don’t see the boundaries,” believes Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, the British Science Association’s first Black president.
Maggie is a space scientist who completed her undergraduate and PhD at Imperial College London. She was diagnosed with dyslexia when she was 8 years old.
She is a BBC television presenter and Managing Director of Science Innovation Ltd, a company aimed at changing the demographics and knowledge in science.
Maggie previously worked for the British Ministry of Defence designing instruments including a missile warning system, land mine detectors and an optical subsystem for the James Webb Space Telescope.
In 2009 she was awarded an MBE for her exceptional services to science and education, and in 2013, she was named as the UK’s top 10 most influential Black people on the UK Power List.
Maggie says: “Racism is too important an issue not to be talked about and dealt with publicly; we cannot hide from it and must take it on – despite these often being uncomfortable conversations. I am very supportive of the BSA’s mission to transform the diversity and inclusivity of science and hope that together we can continue to drive forward conversations about, and action on, this important topic.”
“It is a real honour to be taking up the mantle of President of the British Science Association. I’m a huge supporter of the BSA’s ambition of making science a part of everyone’s everyday lives. I truly believe there is an inner scientist in everyone, whatever their background, and science engagement plays an important role in making it accessible to all.”
Neurodiversity in the workplace was examined in depth at Diversity Network’s recent Neurodiversity Digital Focus Day. For further info, visit: https://www.diversity-network.com/neurodiversity-focus-day/
Gain practical takeaways and cutting-edge advice from industry experts about everything from reasonable adjustments to the business case for recruiting (and retaining) neurodiverse candidates.
Speakers include Aidan Healy of Lexxic, Lee Corless of JP Morgan, Dr Deborah Leveroy of Dyslexia Box, Meike Bliebenicht of The Diversity Project, Dr Emma-Jane O’Leary from Proctor & Gamble, Rachel Morgan-Trimmer from Sparkle Class and Prachi Deo, Nayi Disha Resource Centre.
The agenda includes:
- Insights on various types of neurodiversity which may exist within your workforce – for example ADHD, autism and dyslexia – and the typical strengths and challenges of the various conditions.
- How hiring and investing in neuro-divergent individuals will improve your business
- How to attract this talent pool through inclusive recruitment practices
- Technologies and tools that you can employ to help support neurodiverse colleagues
This in-depth online event features a mix of insightful presentations, interviews and case studies and a live panel discussion.
Practical ideas and resources to better support your neurodiverse workforce, attract future talent, and create an inclusive culture where all employees can thrive.
Read more about Maggie here: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/be-inspired/magazine/issue-40/careering-ahead-maggie-aderin-pocock/
