At WIQD (We in Quantum Development), our aim is to make the quantum ecosystem a space where everybody feels that they belong. Part of this is sharing impactful, but often overlooked, stories. On the 22nd of October, our WIQD Book Spotlight featured Margriet van der Heijden, Professor of Science Communication in Physics at Eindhoven University of
At the FAB25 conference in Prague, Judith Kreukels, Head of Programmes at WIQD, delivered a powerful talk that challenged the classic image of the quantum physicist: the lone genius in a dusty lab, disconnected from the outside world. Judith opened her presentation by asking a simple question: "What does a quantum physicist look like?" For
This International Women’s Day, we took matters into our own hands and celebrated by organizing a Women's Day Hackathon! Our goal was to contribute to the quantum community by exploring innovative ways to collect and communicate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) data. We’re happy to share that the event was a success! Participants from various
What does it take to succeed as a woman in the male-dominated world of quantum? Last Thursday, we hosted an Inspirational Talk with Rosario González-Férez, co-author of the Women for Quantum’s Manifesto of Values. Rosario shared her personal journey in quantum physics, from her unexpected decision to pursue physics to becoming a leading researcher with
At WIQD, we believe that equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are essential to driving innovation and progress in quantum. That’s why we’re happy to announce our new partnership with Diversity in Quantum (DiviQ)! Together, our goal is to build a more inclusive quantum ecosystem, attracting and retaining talent from underrepresented groups and fostering equity in
Today we mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. On this day, we reflect on the importance of creating inclusive workplaces. With over one billion people worldwide living with a disability, it's time to acknowledge that inclusion is not just an ideal—it’s a necessity. Yet, 80% of people with disabilities globally do not have
Another award for our Head of Programmes Judith Kreukels! During the European Quantum Technology Conference this week, Judith was honoured with the EDI Prize for her work with WIQD as a “champion of action towards Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in her institution”. This recognition highlights Judith’s work in fostering inclusivity, empowering underrepresented groups, and
Did you know that 28% of LGBT+ people and 20% of trans people have at some point considered leaving their jobs because of a hostile workplace or discrimination? (rcs.org) Or that gay and bisexual students are less likely to follow an academic career? (rcs.rog) Today, on the International Day of LGBTQIA+ People in STEM, we
We’re happy to announce that our Head of Programmes Judith Kreukels has won an Honourable Mention for the prestigious Digital Talent award from RightBrains! In the past three years, Judith has transformed WIQD from a support network to an established organisation driving the change in quantum. This award not only celebrates her individual talent and
Last weekend, we organised a visit to the Dutch Design Week (DDW), which proved to be an eye-opening experience for all of us. The event showcased the impressive collaborations between scientists, designers, and artists. One of the standout exhibits for us was from the Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute, where our very own OC member, Yuri,
