Curious minds are needed in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in order to find innovative solutions to global issues. All children develop and grow to understand the world around them through a lens of curiosity, yet the cultural context surrounding gender stereotypes can create barriers to full access and participation in STEM for girls.

The Metamorphosis Girls STEM Conference was created to support girls at a critical time when they are likely to become disengaged with STEM. Girls in middle school may lose interest in STEM studies and careers despite high academic achievement in these disciplines, and a much lower number of women compared to men are choosing to enter and stay in careers in STEM fields, especially in the areas of mathematics, physics, engineering and computer science. According to a recent Canadian study, men outnumber women in the Canadian STEM workforce by a ratio of 3:1. While gender disparity in STEM is a complex issue, we know that early and positive engagement in STEM and access to champions in STEM fields can greatly impact girls' decisions to pursue and persevere in STEM after high school.

The mission of the Metamorphosis Girls STEM Conference is to foster partnerships with people and organizations who are dedicated to creating welcoming spaces for girls in STEM, while engaging girls in the making of their own STEM stories. Through a day of hands-on workshops, inspirational speakers and mentorship, we hope to spark curious questions in the minds of our conference delegates that will lead them down a long and incredible journey in STEM.

The conference was first hosted on International Women’s Day at JPCI in 2017 and it was a huge success thanks to the incredible community support from all corners of the STEM-verse. The conference has served over 700 students from middle schools all across the TDSB. The event features hands-on workshops, interactive exhibitor displays and an amazing panel of girls and women who share their experiences and advice for a positive future in STEM careers. 

The Metamorphosis Girls STEM Conference is one step in the journey towards transforming attitudes surrounding girls and women in STEM, and achieving equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM. If STEM is to be the driver of innovation and economic prosperity in Canada, we need everyone involved. 

Contact Us

Metamorphosis Girls STEM Conference 
Hosted by John Polanyi Collegiate Institute 
640 Lawrence Avenue West
​Toronto ON M6A 1B1