Graduates leave legacy with women in STEM network
A pair of students behind a support network group for women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) have left a lasting legacy after graduating from the University of Bradford.
Alex Troup and Maleeha Abbass, the Creator and President of the University’s STEMinism Society, which exists to promote STEM subjects, particularly to women and girls, driving change, breaking down barriers and ensuring the world of STEM is equal for everyone.
The society, which started in 2023, has held a series of events on campus to promote STEM to females, including an alumni networking event in March 2024 and a ‘speed networking’ event in February 2025.
rom left, graduates Maleeha Abbass and Alex Troup, the Creator and President of the University’s STEMinism Society. Images credit: Kiran Metha@KM Images Ltd
Creating a community
Alex and Maleeha both graduated on 2 December following the completion of their BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering course.
Alex, 23, who is now working as a process engineer, said: “I was overwhelmingly happy but nervous to graduate. It [University] has just been an amazing experience. I can’t believe it has come to an end.
“It has involved so much more than a degree; we have created a community with STEMinism.
“The society proved that you can go far by supporting each other, if you find minorities that resonate with you. We found the community of women in STEM.”
Alex Troup graduates. Images credit: Kiran Metha@KM Images Ltd
‘It started as a group chat name’
Maleeha, 22, who is currently studying a Master’s in Advanced Chemical Engineering, said: “I am so grateful for the support I have received from my family, friends and lecturers at Bradford.
“I am proud of the work we have done so far, from our alumni speed networking event for women in STEM to our winter wonderland social.
“What started out as a group chat name between me, Alex and our friend Amilah Tabassam, that kickstarted the vision, has flourished into a supportive community. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the future of STEMinism.”
STEMinism Society is continuing at the University of Bradford with Marnie Comrie, Secretary and Ally Ambassador, helping to take over running the group. Marnie says Alex and Maleeha have helped to leave a ‘long-lasting legacy of an inclusive space in STEM’.
Maleeha Abbass graduates. Images credit: Kiran Metha@KM Images Ltd
More on STEMinism Society
The STEMinism Society, which now has around 40 members at the University of Bradford, runs a number of events and activities, including raising money for charity (such as for Victims of Conflict), organising girls’ nights out and trips out – including a visit to Manchester which attracted more than 30 students across STEM courses.
Speaking previously, Alex said: “The idea behind STEMinism was to create a support network for women in STEM subjects, partly because there are so few of us but also to combat any kind of subconscious bias young girls and women may have encountered during their education.”
The STEMinism Society reflects the University of Bradford’s commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and its vision to transform lives through education and collaboration. By breaking barriers in STEM and fostering a supportive community, it helps deliver the University’s goal of creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive and make a positive impact.
STEMinism Society will continue at the University of Bradford. Images credit: Kiran Metha@KM Images Ltd