On the eve of International Women’s Day, I would like to reach out to all young scientists to stress the value of just having a go and following your passions. This is the most important key to success. Don’t be afraid of your inner negative voice that might hold you back by saying - ‘I’m not as good as so and so....’. - the imposter voice that exists in everyone’s head. Chances are that your unique strengths and knowledge hold the vital key to solving a really important societal problem. Have a go!
 
Most importantly, success in my opinion, comes from respectful collaboration and team work. And what’s more, working within diverse teams. Not looking for people who are like you but going that extra and often challenging step to engage with different people - diversity of gender, ethnicity, personality, culture and specialisation all support creative thinking and unique solutions to important scientific problems. That’s how we can make a true impact to address the societal challenges - It’s through team work and having a ‘can do’ attitude.
 
Finally I urge you all to seek out Mentors (both men and women). I still have mentors whose voices I value! It doesn’t have to be through a formal ‘mentoring scheme’. It might be just a casual coffee or meal or even by email or Skype! Or it might be through networking groups. Keep open to the ideas of others and see how these fit into your own value system and your own definition of ‘success’. One thing we all have to consider is how we define ‘success’ and ‘merit’ in today’s world.
 
So seek out the important problems you are passionate about and think you can contribute to with your science and engineering background, look for collaborations and mentors, practise self care for you and your team and above all ........
Work Hard and Work Happy!!