Space4Women
First webinar Space4Women x Cosmic Girls Foundation 'Demystifying space careers: not just astronauts'
UNOOSA proudly partnered with the Cosmic Girls Foundation for the organization of a first global webinar on Monday 21 July 2025, uniting young women and girls worldwide to explore how they can shape the future of space - without needing to be astronauts.
The session, part of UNOOSA's Space for Women Programme, represented by Anne-Claire Grossias, aimed to demystify careers in the space sector, showcasing how women can thrive in diverse roles from economics and law to engineering, policy, and innovation. Since 2017, the Space for Women Project has mentored over 270 women globally, empowering them to access and contribute to space solutions.
Dr. Mindy Howard, speaking on behalf of Cosmic Girls, emphasized that our mission extends beyond sending a girl to space. "We are building an ecosystem that equips girls worldwide with STEM skills, astronaut training, and the mindset to innovate for humanity's future among the stars", she shared. Currently, Cosmic Girls is running a global competition for girls aged 14-19, where finalists receive astronaut training, with one participant earning a suborbital flight.
Learning from leaders: Fani and Rachael's journeys
The webinar featured two inspiring speakers:
Fani Kallianou de Jong, who recently became the Space Economy Lead at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) after a career in climate policy and finance, shared how she shifted into the space sector by connecting her passion for sustainability with the power of space data for societal challenges. "Space is not only about astronauts; it's about using technology and policy to address climate change, precision farming, and accountability on Earth", Fani emphasized, encouraging women to enter space from diverse backgrounds.
Rachael Olore, legal officer at the Kenya Space Agency, shared her path from commercial law to shaping Kenya's space policy and law. Her journey highlighted the role of international law, governance, and space diplomacy, demonstrating that impactful contributions are possible without a technical engineering background. "Success meets readiness. Take deliberate actions toward your goals and don't let societal expectations limit your vision", Rachael advised.
Key takeaways for (young) women
During the interactive Q&A, the speakers shared practical, heartfelt advice for young women aspiring to enter the space sector, regardless of background:
- Be your own cheerleader. "Even if no one else is cheering for you, you must root for yourself", Rachael emphasized. "Learn to trust your gut, stand tall, and believe that you deserve to take up space, literally and figuratively".
- Every kick is a boost. Fani shared how rejection or discouraging comments can feel like setbacks but can actually fuel your determination. "Whenever someone says you can't do something, let it drive you forward. Every kick is a boost if you decide to take it that way".
- Seek out mentors and allies. Both speakers underscored the importance of finding mentors who will support your vision, share honest feedback, and open doors. "No one has ever said no when I've asked for help or advice", Fani noted, highlighting the space community's willingness to lift others up.
- Embrace continuous learning. The space sector is interdisciplinary and evolving rapidly. "Success meets readiness", Rachael said, encouraging participants to pursue learning through free courses, webinars, and participation in communities like Cosmic Girls and UNOOSA's Space4Women.
- Stay disciplined, but follow your passion. Building a future in space requires dedication and focus but also joy in the journey. "When you combine your mind, heart, and hands in your work, it no longer feels like work, it becomes a purpose", Fani shared.
- Block out limiting beliefs. Participants were encouraged to block out societal expectations and negative voices, knowing that their dreams are valid. "Don't let the fear of being 'too young' or 'too different' hold you back. You are good enough for your dreams", Fani reminded.
- Join the global ecosystem. Whether your dream is to become an astronaut, space lawyer, engineer, or policy innovator, you are not alone. By joining communities like Cosmic Girls and Space4Women, attending webinars, and actively engaging with the space sector, you can build meaningful connections and turn ambition into action.
"You have so much power. When you put your mind, your heart, and your hands to something, there is nothing you cannot achieve". Rachael Olore.
"It is never too late to start something new, and no dream is too big. Just keep moving, one step at a Time". Fani Kallianou de Jong.
Building a global ecosystem together
The webinar marks the beginning of a series of collaborations between UNOOSA and Cosmic Girls Foundation. By bringing together UNOOSA's global reach and Cosmic Girls' grassroots ecosystem, we aim to provide girls worldwide with practical pathways, mentorship, and inspiration to pursue roles across the space industry.
Stay connected
The recording of the webinar is available on UNOOSA's Youtube channel and shared through the Cosmic Girls community channels.
Connect with the Cosmic Girls Foundation via www.cosmicgirls.org and social platforms to join the upcoming webinars, programs, and follow updates on competitions, training opportunities, and new initiatives with UNOOSA.
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