Latinx+ Engineering Day

With Elizabeth Rasekoala, PhD

In this talk, Dr. Rasekoala will share her journey as a chemical engineer and the highlights from her education and career, including the roles of family and sociocultural and generational dynamics. She’ll also touch on her scholarship on the critical positioning of inclusive science communication practices.

Dr. Elizabeth Rasekoala has a professional background in chemical engineering. Through her work, she harnesses mutual learning, equity, and decolonization approaches across the Global North-South divide, delivering a transformed, inclusive science communication landscape.

In addition to being president of the African Gong, an organization that advocates for STEM popularization and communication, Elizabeth is the first African female scientist to receive an International Award for Science Communication. She has served as consultant and advisor for governments and institutions in both the Global North and South, including the European Commission, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, UNESCO, the African Union Commission, and the African Development Bank.

With Dr. Kenya Mejia

Hear from Dr. Mejia on her journey through engineering, from the first time she learned about the field in high school to the obstacles she faced in finding her path. Incorporated into her personal story are statistics of underrepresentation in engineering, and why it’s so important to have more diversity in the field. Get ready to be inspired, and take part in a design activity that will bring out the engineer in all of us. 

Dr. Kenya Z. Mejia recently joined San Francisco State University as a faculty member in mechanical engineering. She was born and raised in Los Angeles and grew up in a Honduran American family. Dr. Mejia’s current research focuses on interrogating engineering cultural norms that create barriers to inclusion for underrepresented students. She is also interested in using engineering design to create stronger curricular ties between engineering sciences and the social impact of technology and its development.

With Carlos Ng Pitti

Get a closer look at life using the CellScope, a cutting-edge cell phone microscope developed by bioengineers at UC Berkeley. Experience the wonders of seeing familiar organisms in incredible detail, and discover how this innovative tool, combined with CRISPR gene-editing technology, is revolutionizing the diagnosis of infectious diseases in remote areas. Then hear from Carlos Ng Pitti, a UC Berkeley bioengineering graduate student, as he shares insights into the real-world impact of these advancements.

With Elizabeth Rasekoala, PhD

Limited capacity. First come, first served. 

In this workshop, Dr. Rasekoala will recount the African folktale of "The Tale of Raven and Fox." Folktales like this one are extended versions of African proverbs, and they serve the purpose of imparting life lessons, Indigenous knowledge, wisdom, and affirmation. This storytelling workshop is recommended for children ages 9–12.

With SHPE

Join the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and get to know STEM professionals. This year’s panel is moderated by Andres Brender from Telemundo 48 and features speakers with backgrounds in electrical engineering, applied mathematics, bioengineering, and human-centered design. Come learn about their work, how they built successful careers, and ask any questions you may have.

With Vivian Altmann

Explore basic electrical circuits by building a simple array of flashing, color-changing lights. Then slip it all into a paper bag and you'll have your own mini disco party!

With the San Francisco Public Library

Presented in Spanish and English. Limited capacity and recommended for families with kids ages 4–7. 

Join us for Storytime Science and enjoy a science-themed storybook read-aloud geared toward young children (and their grown-ups).

With Bululú

In Venezuela, a Bululú is a vibrant, buzzing gathering that sparks excitement. It only takes a minute listening to Bululú the band to understand why they've adopted the name. Their performances are a thrilling mix of styles, from calypsos and salsa to cumbias, sones, guarachas, merengues, bachatas, and more.

Led by Venezuelan-born percussionist, composer, and vocalist Lali Mejia, Bululú draws inspiration from the folkloric rhythms of Venezuelan, Colombian, Dominican, Cuban, and other Caribbean cultures. The band stands out not only for its rich musical diversity but also for its inclusive identity, embracing the LGBTQ+ community and featuring a majority of female band members.

Look for signs throughout the museum honoring Latinx scientists, innovators, activists, and artists.

With the San Francisco Public Library

Please take a free children’s or young adult book in English or Spanish while supplies last, compliments of the San Francisco Public Library.