AFS Intercultural Programs is proud to announce that AFS Global STEM Accelerators has been named a finalist in the 6th Annual Anthem Awards, recognizing its work to expand equitable access to STEM education and empower young women around the world. The program is a finalist for Best K-12 Education Innovation, within the Education, Art & Culture category.
The Anthem Awards celebrate purpose-driven initiatives, organizations, and individuals creating meaningful social impact. With more than 12,500 submissions received this year, this recognition highlights the importance of advancing inclusive STEM education and creating opportunities for the next generation of global changemakers.
Watch the AFS Global STEM Accelerators Spotlight Video
Expanding Access to STEM Education Worldwide
AFS Global STEM Accelerators is a fully-funded STEM education and intercultural exchange program empowering young women worldwide to become changemakers. Through interactive virtual learning, mentorship, and social impact projects, participants develop STEM skills, global competence, and leadership abilities while exploring solutions to challenges in their communities.
The program is designed to help close both the gender gap and the privilege gap in STEM by reducing financial, technological, and geographic barriers to participation. It prioritizes learners who have historically faced barriers to STEM pathways, including refugees, displaced youth, and young women from low-income communities.
Since 2022, the Global STEM Accelerators program has empowered more than 1,700 young women across 112 countries with access to STEM education and intercultural exchange.
- More than 80% are students from underrepresented communities in education abroad – including refugee and displaced youth, People of Color, and Indigenous youth.
- 51% of participants come from low-income households.
- 100% of completed participants demonstrate measurable growth in global competence skills.
- More than 53% of alumni have gone on to pursue STEM education or careers in the STEM fields.
These outcomes reflect AFS’s commitment to equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and global perspectives to advance their education and create positive change in their communities.
Learn more about AFS Global STEM Accelerators
Recognizing Purpose-Driven Impact
Presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS), the Anthem Awards recognize organizations and initiatives advancing social good across a range of causes and sectors. The program’s nomination in Best K-12 Education Innovation celebrates the role of inclusive, accessible education in building a more equitable future.
In addition to the awards selected by the judging panel, the Anthem Awards feature a Community Voice Award, which is determined by public vote.
Help us celebrate AFS Global STEM Accelerators! During the Community Voice voting period (now until October 29), visit the Anthem Awards website, find AFS, and click “Celebrate.” Be sure to confirm your vote using the verification link sent to your email.
Every vote helps amplify the importance of equitable STEM education and the young women working to make a difference around the world.