H&M launches new programme to tackle D&I issues in STEM
Retail giant H&M is set to launch a new science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) programme in the UK to drive sustainable fashion solutions. The programme comes as the retail group looks to promote a global series of STEM initiatives, to encourage a more diverse and inclusive fashion environment.
In partnership with social enterprise Stemettes, the initiative is focused on inspiring girls, women and non-binary people to consider pursuing education and careers in STEM.
The programme will provide individuals with the opportunity to explore the multiple ways in which STEM-based careers can contribute to the future of sustainable fashion. Individuals will also be provided with networking and mentoring opportunities, product development activities, customer centric technology, as well as access to STEM role models.
H&M’s Head of Sustainability, Pascal Brun, said in a news release: “This is about the future and how we bring tech, science and data into the core of what we do. I think through this programme, we could position ourselves and attract future talent which will be a core competence in future.”
H&M aims to increase the representation of women and non-binary people in STEM fields, to redress current inequality and underrepresentation, while creating a meaningful impact.
Another spokesperson from H&M said: “By taking a holistic approach, we hope to positively impact the communities in which we work and live by investing in young women and non-binary people, building new connections and expanding our focus on the issues that most affect diversity and inclusion within STEM, including representation.
“By diversifying the opinions and voices within our brand, group and the fashion industry, we hope to drive forward creative thinking and innovation, which will help create sustainable fashion solutions.
“It also gives us an opportunity to explain how the world of fashion is changing and create awareness on why new competences, such as STEM, are needed to tackle and solve the sustainability challenges the industry is working on.”
