About Us About Rochdale Science Initiative
Inspired by a simple yet profound question from an 8-year-old boy named Labib - "Why aren't more people from our community involved in science?"
About Rochdale Science Initiative
Inspired by a simple yet profound question from an 8-year-old boy named Labib - "Why aren't more people from our community involved in science?" - the Rochdale Science Initiative C.I.C (RSI) was born. His innocent curiosity resonated with us, echoing a significant issue identified by the UK Science Festivals Network: the world of science typically attracts an affluent audience, people already involved in cultural pursuits like theatre, museums, and galleries.
Established in 2019 as a Community Interest Company, RSI decided it was time for a change. We envisioned a future where Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) were not only accessible to all but also meaningful and reflective of society's diverse fabric.
Our mission to democratise STEM began in earnest in 2017 with the launch of what has now become a cornerstone of our effort - the Rochdale Science Extravaganza. This initial event, made possible through the support of the British Science Association and our local community, brought science right to the heart of Rochdale and attracted around 500 visitors.
What started as a basic introduction to STEM - a way to share our passion for science - has since blossomed into a one-day STEM festival spectacle that draws thousands of visitors from all walks of life. Our modest beginning has grown into an organisation that works tirelessly to widen access to STEM, particularly for those from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds.
Over the years, we have forged valuable connections with local community organisations, religious institutions, academia, industry, STEM communicators, and local influencers. This network empowers us to develop STEM engagement programmes that emphasise inclusivity, diversity, and representation.
Our work is made possible by a combination of grants, sponsorships, and generous donations. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our supporters for their unwavering faith in our mission.
If you're passionate about making STEM accessible for all and want to help us make a difference, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch to learn more about how you can get involved. Your first step? Send us an email. Together, we can transform the future of STEM.
Our Vision and Mission
At the Rochdale Science Initiative (RSI), we're not just dreaming about the future of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) - we're actively moulding it. We envision a world where STEM is not just a privilege for the few but a right for all. Our vision is of a future where STEM is a tangible, engaging part of every community, reflecting the beautifully diverse society we inhabit.
Our mission? To dismantle the structural and systemic barriers that currently inhibit access to the STEM sector in the UK. We believe in the power of collaboration, which is why we're partnering with young people, adults, community leaders, educational institutions, scientists, industry professionals, and more. By doing so, we aim to shatter the stereotypes about who can be a scientist, technologist, engineer, or mathematician.
RSI is dedicated to reaching out to communities often overlooked in the STEM conversation, ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences valued. We're here to show that STEM is not just an abstract concept but a relevant and practical part of everyday life.
The UK is teeming with untapped potential, and we're committed to unlocking it. We're striving for a future where everyone is represented and empowered to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them. We want to transform science from being a mere school subject into a way of thinking, a framework for making informed decisions about health, environmental stewardship, global population management, and the adoption of new technologies.
We acknowledge that there are barriers preventing underrepresented groups from pursuing careers in STEM. That's why we're working tirelessly to break down these obstacles, creating a pathway for everyone who has the passion and interest in these subjects.
We create opportunities for STEM professionals to share their excitement and wonder about their fields with the next generation, irrespective of their backgrounds. We believe that the spark of curiosity, once ignited, can lead to a lifetime of discovery and innovation.
Above all, we're here to support and nurture young people to help them realise their potential and inspire them to change the world through STEM careers. At RSI, we're not just building bridges to a more inclusive STEM future - we're lighting the way.