Genoveva (left) and students at an outreach eventA Bournemouth University lecturer has won an award for her volunteering work to bring science to local communities.
Professor Genoveva Esteban was announced as a winner of “Recognising Excellence in Volunteering in South West England” by STEM Learning. The award is presented in recognition of her outstanding contributions to outreach and public engagement within local schools and community events.
Professor Esteban is also a co-organiser of the annual Dorchester Science Festival which was announced as a winner at the same awards.
“I’m passionate about outreach because it makes science accessible to everyone—regardless of age or background,” she said. “People are naturally curious, and these events ignite that curiosity, promote critical thinking, and demonstrate how science is deeply connected to everyday life.”
Events organised by Professor Esteban over the last year include Wild Wednesday at Sculpture by the Lakes, Dipping into Pond Life with TV presenter Dr George McGavin and the Dorset Wildlife Trust, and the popular Family Science Day at Dorset Museum in Dorchester, which attracts around 800 visitors annually.
The events give people of all ages hands-on experience of the fascinating world of the organisms that live in freshwater and marine environments all around us – including microorganisms, the smallest forms of life on the planet. The activities provide an insight into their vital role in sustaining the health and balance of the planet’s ecosystems.
Announcing her award, the judging panel said, “"Genoveva Esteban is recognised for her exceptional STEM outreach and creative programming. Genoveva’s approach to outreach has empowered academics and undergraduate students at Bournemouth University to participate in outreach activities, working to engage their local schools, communities, families, and fellow scientists alike."
As well as colleagues from her own area of environmental science, Professor Esteban has been joined at her events by students from several of BU’s science courses. Students and staff from Psychology, as well as from the National Centre of Computer Animation, have also contributed, presenting their work and engaging with the public.
Explaining why she feels it is important for universities to reach out to children at an early age, Professor Esteban said, “Working with schools adds another dimension, enriching pupils’ understanding of STEM subjects beyond the classroom. For universities, engaging with communities in this way is vital: it builds trust, inspires future generations, and reinforces the essential role of science in shaping a better, more informed world.”
The volunteering awards for Professor Esteban and Dorchester Science Festival were announced by STEM Learning’s “STEM Ambassador programme” which supports thousands of volunteers to bring examples of STEM careers into schools, colleges, and universities across the UK. The programme is funded by UK Research and Innovation.
