On April 24, 2025, students from Burton High School in San Francisco and Garfield High School in Seattle joined a dynamic virtual IGNITE Panel focused on the growing role of women in artificial intelligence. The session brought together professionals working in the tech industry who use AI in their everyday roles, providing real-world insight into how this technology is shaping careers and the future of work.
The event was hosted by Afiniti, with Azka Hafeez serving as Tech Host and Wennahele Navarrete facilitating the panel. Students had the opportunity to hear from two inspiring professionals: Sehar Aziz, a Data Analyst at Afiniti, and Diana Vicezar, a Product Manager at Microsoft. Each Panelist spoke about how they work with AI in their roles—from analyzing data to shaping the development of new tools and products—and shared how they got started in tech.
The conversation highlighted the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and resilience when navigating a field as fast-evolving as artificial intelligence. Students also heard about the challenges and opportunities facing women in tech and were encouraged to explore STEM careers with confidence, even if they don’t have a traditional background in the field.
This event gave students a valuable look into what it means to work with AI today and helped them envision how they might help shape its future.
“The emphasis the speakers placed on user feedback and human experience inspired me to design more for others rather than just myself. I liked learning how STEM can be integrated into any field of interest.”
12th Grade IGNITE Student
“Listening to the panelists’ experiences helped me gain interest in STEM and develop more confidence. I liked learning how different careers—like anthropology and sports—can connect to STEM.”
12th Grade IGNITE Student
“I liked hearing how career paths can look different for everyone. Some people started in the humanities and ended up in STEM. Thank you for answering my question about overcoming challenges—it showed me how discipline and hard work can help you succeed.”
12th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
90%
INTERESTED IN STEM
68%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
65%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
63%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“This event inspired me to major in STEM and pursue a STEM-related career—and to never give up! My favorite part was hearing about the panelists’ experiences and how they overcame obstacles.” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event inspired me by showing that you can switch from a different field into STEM. That gave me more confidence to pursue what I really want. Thank you, volunteers!” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“It was interesting to learn about the different opportunities available in the STEM field.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“The event showed me that STEM has many career pathways. I don’t have to rush—I just have to focus. I love how the volunteers made STEM seem fun!” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“I enjoyed learning from the accomplished panelists—they were very inspiring. I also liked learning how STEM branches into areas like sports, business, and the arts.” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because I got to learn more about what STEM is. My favorite part was just learning about STEM!” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Azka Hafeez
- Wennahele Navarrete
- Sehar Aziz
- Diana Vicezar
- Audrey Portley-Bernstein
- Geoff Bolan
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.