International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Every year on February 11th, we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day is a powerful reminder to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and to reflect on how far women have come in these fields and why our contributions deserve recognition. As a woman working in the cosmetics industry, I understand the importance of this day, and I’d love to share my journey with you.
My passion for cosmetics started at an early age. As a child, I was always fascinated by beauty products, the way they smelled, how they felt, and how they worked. This curiosity led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Cosmetic Science, and it felt like a perfect fit.
However, I quickly realized that education alone wasn’t enough to prepare me for the industry. To gain practical experience, I sought out internship opportunities, which played a crucial role in helping me understand what I liked and what I didn’t. These experiences allowed me to develop hands-on skills and helped me figure out what I truly wanted to do.
One of the key factors that helped me navigate the cosmetic science industry was networking, because as they say, ‘It’s not what you know, but who you know’. I made it a point to attend university networking events, even if they weren’t directly related to the cosmetics industry. I believe this decision turned out to be extremely beneficial. I met industry professionals, mentors, and peers who provided valuable guidance. The cosmetic industry is relatively small, and making connections can often lead to unexpected opportunities. You never know when someone you meet might help you land your next job or provide crucial career advice.
In addition to networking, I also actively sought mentorship opportunities. Reaching out to experienced professionals, asking for guidance, and being open to learning made all the difference. I learned that there is absolutely nothing wrong with asking for help. It is one of the best ways to learn and grow. My mentors have helped me navigate career decisions, introduced me to opportunities, and provided support when I needed it most.
Currently, I work at Bloom Regulatory, an all-women-led company, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate. Being in a supportive environment where women uplift each other has significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. There is a strong sense of collaboration and encouragement, for which I am very grateful. Having a workplace that values collaboration and mentorship has made a huge difference in my journey.
Celebrating International Women and Girls in Science Day is not just about recognising past achievements. It is also about encouraging the next generation of women to pursue careers in STEM. To any young woman considering a STEM career, my advice is: never stop learning, seek opportunities to grow, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and surround yourself with people who believe in you.
Sayali Garud