Techsploration, a Nova Scotia-based non-profit, has been awarded the 2018 Leadership Excellence Award for Empowerment by the group Women in Communications and Technology.

The national award honours success in empowering girls to continue their participation and education in science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM.

“Since 1998, our small, grassroots organization has been propelled by the idea that knowledge empowers potential,” Arylene Reycraft, Executive Director of Techsploration, said in a release. “This award is a testament to the impact of this vision, as well as the passion and dedication of our community of staff, sponsors, role models, teachers, volunteers, and alumnae.”

Techsploration encourages young women from Grades 9 through 12 to explore in-demand science, trades, and technology careers, while also helping them understand the significance of high school math and science for their future careers.

The group’s mentorship program demonstrates the power of role models to help girls choose a career that's right for them, said Joanne Stanley, Executive Director of WCT.

The group currently reaches 40 schools and over 3,500 students per year. Techsploration’s ‘Women in Action’ web video series has been viewed more than 300,000 times and is used by teachers and students in classrooms across North America and beyond.

WCT’s Leadership Excellence Awards will be presented at the WCT Annual Awards Gala on April 16, 2018 at Ottawa’s Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

The complete list of award winners is available here.