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
Quantum technology has a reputation. It’s complex, theory-heavy, PhD-dominated and often seen as a male-dominated space. But Linda de Man is quietly proving otherwise. As an Experimental Quantum Engineer at the Dutch startup QuantWare, she’s carving out a space where hands-on work, curiosity, and inclusion take centre stage. And she didn’t follow a traditional path
On March 7, our co-founder Stacey Jeffrey participated at the inaugural "Breaking the Quantum Barrier: Women Leading the Future" panel organised by IBM and the International Telecommunication Union. Moderated by Sanskriti Deva (IBM), the discussion featured Diya Nair (Girls in Quantum), Sarah Sheldon (IBM), and WIQD co-founder Stacey Jeffrey. The panel explored key topics, including
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
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
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
“Stories of us are meaningless without context” In our most recent Inspirational Talk, Ghazaleh Ghobadi reflected on her inspiring personal and career journey from Iran to the Netherlands, from being a medical physicist to becoming a professional storyteller. Mathematics Are For Girls Ghazaleh was born and brought up in Iran to a mother who
First Tuesday in October marks Diversity Day in the Netherlands. Today, we celebrate the diversity of the Dutch society under the motto "Diversity Enriches" by actively encouraging everyone to appreciate the differences and to embrace and use everyone’s unique talents. By fostering diversity, equity and inclusion, we create a more vibrant, innovative, and productive society.
As part of the QuantERA strategic conference, WIQD organized a panel session on Empowering Women in Quantum. Moderated by Caiseal Beardow (PhD Candidate & Creative Technologist, TU Delft), the discussion included Elisabeth Giacobino (QuantERA Expert, Sorbonne University), Servaas Kokkelmans (Professor at the TU/e, Director of the Center for Quantum Materials and Technology Eindhoven QT/e), Judith
