Being a parent in STEM is hard. Being a solo mom in STEM is downright heroic. Solo parenting in STEM comes with its own slew of challenges, such as financial stress, prejudice, and lack of time for self-care.

Martta Luikkonen is a Master's graduate in ecology and evolutionary biology and a single mom of a 5-year-old girl. She shared the struggles and successes of balancing solo parenting and pursuing a career in STEM.

“This journey has been exhausting at times, but also very rewarding. I've learned to survive anything and found my passion in life.” Martta Luikkonen

During this event, Martta and our co-founder Isabel Torres, shared their experiences as single mothers and discussed how they tackle the stigma associated with raising children in a non-traditional family.