Here they share a little about their experiences and why we need to encourage more girls to take up space so we can strive for a more gender equal world.

First up, we hear from 2nd Balloch Guide and Ranger leader Lauren, a PhD Chemistry student who received the Robertson medal for her ground-breaking research into pancreatic cancer treatment. This medal is presented annually by the Carnegie Trust to the most outstanding student on its PhD scholarship programme.

“Girlguiding has always challenged and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone; without guiding I doubt I’d have had the courage and belief in my abilities to achieve what I have. However, I still see very few women in senior roles in the world of science – this needs to change. Girls need to see more women in leadership positions in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This will help empower them to realise they can do anything and not be discouraged by outdated gender stereotypes which can stop women realising their potential.

I’m lucky to have a successful and supportive female supervisor to look up to and get guidance from – she inspires me all the time. I too want to be a role model for the next generation of girls and young women by showing them it’s possible to thrive in a typically male dominated space. Together we can #BreakTheBias.”

Next up we hear from one of our young spokespeople Grace. When she’s not studying law at university she’s an avid marathon runner and accomplished cyclist.

“My dad taught me to ride a bike when I was three and I haven’t really stopped since. I’m only 18 but I’ve been a competitive athlete for 11 years now. This would sometimes be a source of embarrassment growing up because cycling is such a male dominated sport – I felt like people expected me to do something more “girly” with my time.

However, moments like crossing the finish line of the Strathpuffer (the hardest mountain bike race in the world) in 6th place, and then running marathons and seeing the lack of younger women at the start lines, taught me how important it is to keep going and continue to help #BreaktheBias. We need more representation in sports more commonly associated with men to show other girls they’re capable of doing absolutely anything they’d like to do.

Through being part of Girlguiding Scotland I’ve gained positive role models who inspire me and gave me the confidence I needed to then achieve things in sport that I had never thought were possible.”

Take the next step

To help encourage your girls to aim high and break the bias check out our range of great challenge packs. From Media Mindful to Citizen Girl, there are lots of fun ways you and your girls can help work towards creating a more gender equal future.