Strengthening STEM Mentorship for Women: Challenges, Best Practices, and Participant Insights

The underrepresentation of women in STEM areas remains a global issue driven by structural, cultural, and institutional barriers. Despite efforts to enhance diversity, women face challenges that limit their participation and advancement. Mentorship has emerged as a powerful intervention, providing support, guidance, and empowerment for women pursuing STEM careers. This study examines these challenges through a qualitative analysis of interviews with eighteen academic women in STEM, revealing gender bias, the lack of visible female role models, and difficulties in balancing personal and professional life. The findings highlight personalized mentorship approaches that reduce isolation and foster professional growth. Mentorship benefits mentees and enhances leadership skills and personal development for mentors, emphasizing the bidirectional nature of the relationship. The study underscores the importance of support networks and continuous training to create inclusive environments that foster diversity and increase women's participation in STEM.