Since 2023, PowHERful has been an initiative by saigonchildren, created to support girls in unlocking their potential through education. Building on the success of previous projects such as PowHERful Career Exploration 2025, PowHERful 2026 has officially launched with a renewed focus: inspiring girls to explore the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
This year’s programme is a long-term journey designed to provide 50 female saigonchildren scholarship recipients with hands-on access to practical STEM knowledge. Following the training phase, these girls will go on to lead five STEM fairs at lower secondary schools in Đồng Nai Province and across the Mekong Delta, passing on confidence and inspiration to around 1,000 younger students as they explore this exciting field together.
In the very first training session, the students took part in challenges that were both demanding and full of fun. From building a paper bridge strong enough to support a 500ml bottle of water to designing and assembling working torches using simple materials, each activity encouraged creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.
While there was some initial hesitation, the room soon filled with lively discussions and enthusiastic collaboration. The students quickly discovered that STEM is not just about dry numbers, but about experimentation, logical thinking, and finding practical solutions to real-life problems.
Among the most enthusiastic participants, Minh Tâm quickly stood out. Active in group work and confident when presenting her ideas, Tâm impressed both her peers and facilitators. What surprised many, however, was that her chosen field of study is History Education, not engineering or technology.
Sharing her story, Tâm said: “I’ve loved history since I was little, listening to my mum tell historical stories. The more I read and learn, the more I grow to love the subject. That’s why I dream of becoming a history teacher.”
Despite pursuing a degree in History Education, Tâm has always remained curious about and interested in technical fields. This curiosity led her to join PowHERful in STEM 2026:
“I really enjoy learning about science and engineering. As soon as I heard about this programme, I signed up straight away. I hope to become more open and confident when working in teams, and to gain scientific research skills that will support my personal development.”
Minh Tâm’s story reflects the core message of this year’s PowHERful theme: interests and potential have no limits. You do not have to be a “maths student” or an “engineering major” to engage with STEM. With curiosity and determination, anyone can explore and grow in new fields.
Let’s continue to follow and cheer on Tâm and the other 49 PowHERful girls as they prepare to spread inspiration at lower secondary schools in the months ahead!