Name: Isidora Orlić

Country: Serbia

Highest level of education: Master’s Degree

Major or field of study: BSc Economics and Finance / MSc Marketing Psychology

Current position: Founder and Director of Educational Center Fibonacci / Logiscool Director

Isidora Orlić is the Founder and Director of Educational Center Fibonacci and the Director of Logiscool in Serbia. She holds a Master’s degree in Marketing Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance. With a strong background in both business and psychology, Isidora is passionate about shaping educational experiences and fostering growth through innovative learning platforms.

Obstacles Isidora encountered throughout her educational and professional journey

One of the biggest challenges Isidora faced was figuring out her next steps in both education and career. It took a lot of exploration—trying out different fields of study and working in various roles before she discovered the path that truly resonated with her. It was a journey of trial and error, but ultimately, it helped her find clarity and direction. Isidora also found it difficult at first to meet peers who shared similar interests and passions about work.

Strategies and actions adopted by Isidora to overcome these obstacles

Isidora gave herself the flexibility to reevaluate her career interests and aspirations, which opened the door to greater freedom and adaptability in making new decisions. To expand her perspective, she participated in various workshops and events organized by different institutions. This journey ultimately led her to join the Young Entrepreneurs Association, where she began attending networking events. There, she connected with individuals pursuing similar goals, gaining valuable insights and learning from their experiences.

Key lessons and insights gained from Isidora’s experience

Isidora recognised the value of a proactive mindset, staying curious, and seeking opportunities to connect with others. By embracing these moments, she built meaningful relationships and gained valuable insights for both her career and personal growth.

The importance of increasing female representation in STEM education and careers

Increasing the representation of women and girls in STEM education and careers is vital for several reasons. Empowering women in these fields not only inspires future generations but also establishes role models who can encourage young girls to confidently pursue their interests. It is therefore essential to expose girls to the full spectrum of opportunities available to them and foster their independence in exploring subjects and careers aligned with their passions, especially in fields historically marketed toward men.

Encouraging more girls and women to pursue careers in STEM

Isidora believes that girls would benefit from being introduced to STEM subjects early on. Engaging in hands-on activities, school projects, and real-world applications can spark their interest. Learning about trailblazing women in STEM, like Marie Curie, Rosalind Franklin, and Grace Hopper, can also be inspiring. This could be done through documentaries, exhibitions, museums, and science fairs. Additionally, meeting young women who have recently entered STEM fields and are open about their experiences can be a powerful motivator for girls looking to follow in their footsteps.

Initiatives and Programs Driving Women’s Empowerment in STEM

Isidora has come across numerous initiatives and events designed to encourage girls and women in STEM, including global programs like “Girls Who Code.” She has also heard of various corporate and university scholarships aimed at supporting girls who want to study or pursue careers in STEM fields. Equally important is the role of social media and public figures who use their platforms to inspire and educate young girls, offering them valuable learning opportunities. For girls and teenagers who spend time on social media and admire online personalities, it’s crucial to have visible examples of successful women in STEM or those who actively support STEM initiatives. For instance, model Karlie Kloss launched “Kode with Klossy,” a free coding camp for girls aged 13-18 across the U.S., while Emily Calandrelli advocates for STEM education and inspires girls through hands-on experiments. The more girls are exposed to these role models and opportunities, the more likely they are to feel motivated to explore these exciting career paths.

Isidora’s advice to young girls considering a career in STEM

“My advice is to stay curious and explore everything that excites you. Embrace the joy of learning new things, attend events, and connect with peers and mentors who share your interests. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals will not only accelerate your learning but also make the journey more inspiring and enjoyable.”