ECU scientist recognised in global transformational leadership initiative

First published by Edith Cowan University

Homeward Bound is the initiative dedicated to connecting and supporting women and non-binary people in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths and Medicine) all over the world.

Created in 2014, by 2036 its founders aim to build a global collaboration of 10,000 women with backgrounds in STEMM. The online program is the gateway into a global network of leaders who share the same sense of purpose and skills for the future.

Each year a cohort of STEMM educators, researchers and innovators are chosen by a panel of leaders in their fields to take part in a 12-month, five phase leadership program, this year that includes Edith Cowan University (ECU) Post Doctoral Research Fellow, Coastal Ecologist and President of the WA branch of the Australian Marine Sciences Association, Dr Shannon Dee.

"As an early career woman in STEMM, I have witnessed limiting attitudes towards the success of women scientists.

"As I begin to take up positions where I will be mentoring more young women, I want to improve my leadership skills to ensure I am providing an encouraging environment for others to learn and succeed," Dr Dee said.

"I had been checking my emails every two hours, constantly refreshing my inbox in the hope I had been selected and then I was told I was, and I was beyond excited."

Dr Dee is an early career researcher within ECU's Centre for Marine Ecosystem Research.

Her work focuses on the coastlines and inshore coral reefs of WA's northwest which are exposed to harsh fluctuations in turbidity, temperature and salinity.

"I am now working on a unique project assessing the ecological significance of intertidal habitats of the Pilbara coastline, to better inform regulators of the impacts of industrial developments. In the field I lead a team of scientists from multiple institutions to effectively report on these incredible habitats in the hope we can encourage informed decision making into the future," Dr Dee said.

"Working across a variety of projects, I have gained an appreciation for the importance of connecting researchers, regulators and managers to achieve effective management outcomes.

"So, to be selected in the 2024 cohort of Homeward Bound is a dream come true, I am already connecting with women all over the world on social media and WhatsApp, many who share the same passion for the research I am conducting."

This year 64 women or non-binary people representing 27 nationalities, and 18 countries have been selected. Connecting fortnightly, while also receiving leadership guidance and coaching from Homeward Bound's faculty.

"Women in STEMM are especially well placed to explore ethical and affiliative models of leadership. These models of leadership foster collaborative and mutually beneficial relationships between leaders and team members.

"It is very rewarding to be a part of a program that really elevates and connects women, working together rather than bidding us against each other," Dr Dee added.

Homeward Bound: Mission, Strategy, Impact

Homeward Bound aims to challenge and help future STEMM leaders individually and collectively, by building capacity and networks for different styles of leadership, anticipating that this will build courage for action and contribute to systemic change.

More information about the program can be found on the website.