Sisterhood in Mathematics: Connecting, Empowering, Achieving

The International Women in Mathematics Day, celebrated annually on May 12th, honors the achievements and contributions of women in mathematics worldwide. This global initiative not only commemorates the birthday of the late Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani-the first woman to win the Fields Medal-but also serves as a platform to inspire, recognize, and connect women in the

This theme reflects AWMA’s core mission of fostering a sense of community among African women in mathematics and creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration, professional growth, and visibility across the continent and beyond.

This event will take place over two days, with each session running for approximately two hours on Zoom. The design of the event intentionally blends academic enrichment, professional development, networking, and celebration to reflect the spirit of the theme:

Day 1: Professional Development & Networking

• The event will begin with a professional development talk aimed at equipping participants with practical skills. One of the key topics will be how to create a personal academic or professional website, an essential tool for visibility and engagement in the mathematics community.

• Following the talk, there will be interactive networking sessions through Zoom breakout rooms. These sessions will provide participants with the opportunity to introduce themselves, share their work or interests, and explore possible collaborations. The aim is to build meaningful connections among African mathematicians across borders and disciplines

Day 2: Showcasing Achievements & Celebrations

• The second day will focus on short research and experience-sharing presentations, each lasting 5 minutes, to allow for diverse voices and topics to be heard.

• After the presentations, the event will feature a celebratory segment that highlights the achievements of African mathematicians, particularly women. This will include a cultural photo exhibition showcasing mathematical journeys, institutional milestones, and community impact.>

• To foster engagement and recognize excellence, participants will be invited to vote for the best presenters through an online poll. Winners will receive certificates of recognition, adding a fun and appreciative touch to the event.

Throughout the two days, the programme emphasizes interactive participation, visibility, and empowerment, ensuring that both emerging and established mathematicians feel seen, heard, and celebrated.