Prime Minister Theresa May has named a De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) graduate as one of Britain’s outstanding volunteers.
Jessica Okoro, who graduated in July from Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science, was today recognised as one of the UK’s Points of Light – an accolade given to those people who innovate and inspire.
She has been recognised for her work to create the BeScience STEM movement, inspiring the next generation of young scientists by enthusing them about science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Jessica was told the news yesterday during her first BeScience STEM Social conference involving 500 GCSE and A-level students from across the city, supported by #DMUlocal.
Jessica said: “It’s an honour to be recognised for the Points of Light Award with the BeScience STEM movement. Myself and everyone who also supports thoroughly enjoys changing the misconceptions of STEM and will carry on doing so, as we have grown to realise that its very much necessary.”
BeScience includes programmes including LibraryLab, which sees volunteers hold fun science events for young people in city libraries, and Creative KidsLAB, which stages pop-up science workshops in shopping centres and community centres.
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In a personal letter to Jessica, Prime Minister Theresa May said: “In ‘BeScience’ you have created a pioneering movement of students and recent graduates inspiring young people to explore STEM subjects. Your innovative interventions demonstrate that science can be creative and fun. I wish you every success as you continue to grow this exciting project.“
Jessica developed her business to help young people overcome similar challenges and has even presented evidence in Parliament to help shape how children are taught STEM subjects in school.
Earlier this year she won a package of support with DMU’s Pitch2Win competition, run by the university’s Enterprise Team to help kick-start or develop a business idea. This will enable her to concentrate on BeScience.
Jessica was one of the students chosen to star in DMU’s latest TV advert called Dare to Do, where she was featured preparing for a presentation.
Posted on Thursday 10 November 2016