10/03/2025 – After a successful first edition at IUT Lannion, Photonics Bretagne was pleased to take part in the 2ᵉ edition of the ‘Filles & Sciences’ day, organised by the CMQe Numérique, Photonique & Cybersécurité at ENSSAT on Thursday 6 March.
This event is part of the ‘Cordées de la réussite’ project, which links the Lycée Félix Le Dantec (the lead school), local secondary schools and higher education establishments. The aim of this initiative is to show young girls that there is a place for them in the scientific and technical professions. Through this immersive day, 60 14-year-orld girls from the collège Coppens had the opportunity to discover the diversity of science and technology through a rich and interactive programme.
An inspiring programme to stimulate curiosity
The day began with a series of presentations and testimonials, giving students the opportunity to talk to women scientists and engineers about their careers, experiences and ambitions.
Photonics Bretagne was able to highlight photonics and its applications with a general presentation, followed by inspiring testimonials from Lisa Uguen and Anaëlle Mignon, both on work-study contracts at Photonics Bretagne and respectively students at ENSSAT (photonics engineer) and IUT Lannion (BUT Mesures Physiques). Other young women also spoke on subjects such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and other promising scientific fields.
In the afternoon, the schoolgirls were able to experiment and discover science in a fun way through a number of workshops:
▪️Laser guitar: understanding the interactions between light and sound.
▪️Holography: exploring the capture and projection of three-dimensional images.
▪️The light box: manipulate light and its different properties.
▪️Unplugged computing: learn the basics of programming without a screen.
▪️The connected paddle: discover how new technologies can be integrated into sport and the maritime environment.
A collective commitment to equality in science
The day helped to break down stereotypes and encourage young girls to consider scientific and technical careers. By raising awareness at secondary school level, we are helping to build a future in which parity in these fields can finally become a reality.
Many thanks to the CMQe, ENSSAT, the speakers and the supervisors for this wonderful initiative! Together, let’s continue to inspire tomorrow’s talent and promote diversity in science and photonics.