Women’s roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are vital for innovation, yet societal barriers continue to limit their full participation. By integrating the ESTE framework, which emphasizes entrepreneurship, science, technology, and engineering, this article explores how women can overcome barriers and reshape industries. Insights from recent research on gender disparities in STEM highlight how early support and empowerment for girls are crucial to maximizing their contributions in these fields. The article outlines actionable steps for fostering an inclusive future that encourages girls and women to reach their full potential.

Women have always been at the forefront of peacebuilding, advocating for harmonious communities and equitable societies. This article explores the critical roles women play in fostering peace, viewing these contributions through the lens of the ESTE (Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering) Framework. By examining how women engage in these disciplines, we uncover how their efforts align with broader societal needs for peace and stability. The article also presents actionable steps to further empower women in these areas, thereby enhancing their impact on global peace.

Women's Equality Day, celebrated annually on August 26th, commemorates the 1920 adoption of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. This day not only marks a significant milestone in the fight for women's rights but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in all aspects of society. Since its inception, Women's Equality Day has symbolized the relentless pursuit of equality, inspiring continued advocacy for women's rights across various sectors, including entrepreneurship, science, technology, and engineering (ESTE).

Black Women's Equal Pay Day marks the day in the year when Black women in the United States have finally earned what their white male counterparts earned in the previous year. In 2024, this day was July 9th to underscore the persistent wage gap and raise awareness about the economic inequalities faced by Black women. The date for Black Women's Equal Pay Day changes from year to year because it is calculated based on the additional time Black women must work into the new year to earn what white, non-Hispanic men earned in the previous year. This calculation considers the average earnings from the prior year and compares them to the earnings of white, non-Hispanic men. Since these earnings figures can fluctuate due to various economic factors, wage changes, and employment patterns, the specific date for Equal Pay Day can shift each year. The history of this day traces back to broader movements for civil rights and gender equality. Although there has been progress in addressing these disparities, significant gaps remain. This article explores the historical context, progress made, and how the ESTE framework (Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, and Engineering) can play a role in closing the pay gap.

Women Veterans Day, observed annually on June 12th, commemorates the contributions of women to the U.S. military. Established in 2018, this day honors the vital roles women have played in defense and recognizes their unique challenges and triumphs. This article delves into the history of Women Veterans Day, the progress made since its inception, and how it ties into the ESTE framework, highlighting the significance of Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, and Engineering in the journey of women veterans. The article concludes with action items to further support and empower women veterans.

Mother's Day transcends the traditional view of motherhood, celebrating the nurturing roles women adopt in various aspects of life and society. It honors both biological and figurative motherhood—encompassing mentors, leaders, and pioneers who embody maternal qualities in nurturing our society's intellectual and ethical growth. Through the lens of the ESTE framework—Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering—this discussion expands to recognize the diverse manifestations of motherhood in driving forward-thinking and innovation.

World Health Day, observed annually on April 7th, is a global health awareness day under the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO). Since its inception in 1948, it has aimed to highlight specific health themes and issues, fostering worldwide attention and action. This article delves into the history of World Health Day, reviews the progress made in global health, and explores its connection with the ESTE (Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering) framework. We conclude with action items to engage with World Health Day initiatives and contribute to a healthier future for all.

Today, March 8th, International Women's Day reminds us of the significant progress made in women's rights while also highlighting areas where disparities remain. In STEM, despite equal capabilities, women face cultural and institutional barriers that limit their participation and advancement. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes changing cultural perceptions, providing support and mentorship, and creating inclusive environments that value and promote women's contributions.

February 11th was International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and promoting gender equality in science. This month, we explore the significance of this day and its benefits, drawing insights from two publications, "Mentors as Female Role Models in STEM Disciplines and Their Benefits" (Torres-Ramos 2021) and "Beyond Biology: The Importance of Cultural Factors in Explaining Gender Disparities in STEM Preferences" (El-Hout 2021). We delve into the importance of female role models, the influence of cultural factors on STEM preferences, and the advancements made in empowering women in science.

Following the celebration of International Women's Day, it becomes particularly significant to recognize the achievements of professional women. The current article is inspired by the invaluable insights presented in, Women in the Workplace 2021, a report by McKinsey & Company and LeanIn.org. Join us as we delve into the ongoing efforts of women shaping and redefining success within the professional sphere. Although considerable progress has been achieved, substantial work remains ahead of us.

As we reflect on celebrating International Women's Day, a moment that resonates with the celebration of women's achievements, it's fitting to reflect on the progress made by women in the professional arena. Drawing inspiration from the valuable insights shared in the recent report, Women in the Workplace 2021, let's explore the journey of women who continue to shape and redefine success.

As the year ends, let us reflect – and celebrate! – the outstanding accomplishments we’ve achieved together at ESTE Leverage! 2023 has been a testament to our collective effort, perseverance, and innovation.

During adolescence, the exploration of one’s identity is one way to discover oneself [Kleibeuker 2016]. The ESTE Is an Innate Assessment, helps facilitate identification exploration and the discovery process. The Assessment strives to identify innate qualities and inner passions within the individual.

Recently, we had the opportunity to work with Assessment Systems Corporation (ASC), which conducted an analysis on the ESTE Is Innate Assessment, specifically evaluating its Reliability.

The ESTE Team continues to refine the ESTE Is Innate Assessment based on the framework developed by the CEO and Founder, Terrisa Duenas. We are currently tailoring the assessment to better resonate with the middle-school student…

In May this year, we were thrilled to receive notification from the U.S. National Science Foundation that ESTE Leverage was …

Recently, Terrisa Duenas (CEO and Founder of ESTE Leverage) and Cecilia Duenas (Advisor to ESTE Leverage) had the privilege and opportunity to travel to the Maasai village of Elerai in Africa…

At ESTE Leverage, we believe in constant growth and improvement, not only for our clients but also for our internal team…

González, Moll, and Amanti first published a book in 2005 entitled Funds of Knowledge: Theorizing practices in households, communities, and classrooms. Their concept, Funds of Knowledge, …

Explore insights from ESTE Leverage on how moms are shaping the future of their daughters. Discover strategies to support, nurture, and empower middle-school girls in a rapidly changing world. Learn from real-life experiences and find out how you can help your daughter build self-confidence, manage social media influence, and thrive both in and out of school.

Los Angeles-based start-up, ESTE® Leverage, has been awarded a seed fund grant valued at $275,000 from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to further…