Women working in the field of science have been celebrated at a fundraising event to mark International Women’s Day.

More than 50 female representatives from major non-profit, financial, industrial and governmental organisations gathered at Verdmont for an evening of networking and collaboration.

Rosemarie McMahon, a climate scientist, moderated a panel discussion featuring Rachel Parson, a research specialist at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, Noelle Young, a sustainability solutionist and Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme associate, and Hannah Horsfield, Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute’s programmes co-ordinator.

A spokeswoman for the Bermuda Women in Science group, which organised the event, said: “The discussion illuminated the roles of women in research, education and scientific applications, offering a glimpse into their broader contributions across various fields. It kick-started an evening of networking, sparking meaningful conversations and broadening connections among diverse individuals.

“Great care was taken to championing women-led enterprises throughout the event, from the selection of wine from female-owned wineries to the impeccable catering by an all-female team at Two Fish in a Barrel.

“Representatives from the Women in Reinsurance group were also in attendance, reinforcing connections between science and insurance. With an emphasis on the importance of early career mentoring, an invitation was extended to female students from Bermuda College.

“Beyond this single event, the celebration organised by the Women in Science group is part of a broader movement to recognise the unique skills within the science community.

“The skills available in this group span all sectors, showcasing the broad array of career opportunities available in science, both globally and locally. Inspirational organisations, such as CariGenetics, illustrate that new paths in Stem can be forged locally.

“The voices from females in international corporates were also prevalent, providing a unique sounding board for new and innovative ideas, highlighting the island's unique financial knowhow, expertise in risk transfer, and commitment to sustainability and environmental governance.”

The inaugural event was sponsored by HSBC and Aspen Bermuda, and a donation was also made by Swan Group and Liberty Group.

Tanya Bule, head of Wealth and Personal Banking at HSBC, said: “We are honoured to champion this significant gathering as it reflects HSBC’s commitment to recognising and celebrating the exceptional contributions of women in science, emphasising our dedicated focus on nurturing early career networking opportunities for young women in Stem.”

Giselle Yeung, vice-president of ESG and chairwoman of Aspen Bermuda’s employee resource group on gender and inclusivity network, added that Aspen supported fostering “impactful opportunities” that promoted inclusivity.

She said: “We saw the Women in Science event as one that celebrates this ethos. We hope this forms the first of many cross-sector partnerships that highlight the important role women provide in business, research and education.”

Julie Steele, the head of education at BUEI, and she was presented with an award in recognition of her contribution to science education. A donation was also made to the National Trust's education programme, reaffirming the commitment to early Stem development.