Diversity in STEM in 2024: A reflection and a path forward

In recent years, the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) have been the cornerstone of innovation and progress. Yet, the STEM landscape has struggled with a persistent and profound lack of diversity. For many women and ethnic minorities across the globe, a career in STEM and life sciences remains an elusive dream.

As we reflect on the progress made in 2024, it is clear that, while significant strides have been taken, the journey toward true diversity, equity, and inclusion is far from complete.

Yet, diversity in STEM and life sciences is a necessity to drive innovation and progress, particularly within the pharmaceutical industry. At Takeda UK and Ireland, we are committed to pursuing efforts that drive innovation and progress on behalf of the patients we serve by fostering an inclusive workplace, investing in partnerships that support diversity in STEM, and raising awareness and challenging stigmas faced by individuals who may be pursuing a career in STEM.

Building on achievements

Experience indicates that collaborative teams, which include individuals from various backgrounds, are more likely to develop unique solutions and breakthroughs. Therefore, fostering an inclusive workplace to ensure diversity across STEM professionals plays a critical role in addressing complex healthcare challenges, whilst encouraging the next generation to aspire to careers they would not have once had access to.

Earlier this year, colleagues across Takeda’s UK and Ireland offices participated in a campaign called #BeYou. With over 20 nationalities spanning a broad range of ages, backgrounds, and cultures, #BeYou sought to help create an inclusive environment for all colleagues to thrive. Efforts like these, alongside allyship generated through employee resource groups have the potential to cultivate environments where innovation flourishes. This inclusive spirit is not just beneficial for employees; it also enhances the quality of work and, in turn, the impact on patient communities.

Educational institutions and corporations have also ramped up their efforts, partnering with industry to provide opportunities for underrepresented groups. By working together, we can leverage our collective strengths to create more inclusive opportunities in STEM.

Addressing systemic challenges

While progress continues to be made, systemic challenges persist. Research suggests that, currently in 2024, only 29.4% of the workforce within the pharmaceutical industry globally are women.¹ Societal and cultural barriers, along with limited access to education and professional opportunities, have historically kept women and minorities on the periphery.² The absence of diverse role models and mentors has further exacerbated this exclusion. Having proudly come from a line of strong, successful women, I feel privileged to have been able to pursue a global career in science and innovation, whilst also having the opportunity to support others and foster inclusive workplaces. It is imperative that we work to address these systemic issues by creating platforms that amplify diverse voices and offer robust support networks.

The health sector provides a stark illustration of the consequences of lacking diversity. Health inequalities have persisted, leading to poorer outcomes for women and people from minority ethnic communities. By ensuring that treatments are developed by a diverse group of scientists and healthcare professionals, we can move towards more equitable healthcare outcomes. The efforts made this year must be the foundation upon which future progress is built.

A call for sustainable change

True change requires a multi-faceted approach. It is crucial for organisations to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion into their core values and operational strategies. By doing so, we can create environments where every individual is empowered to reach their highest potential.

Looking ahead, the momentum gained in 2024 must be maintained and amplified. By fostering a culture of belonging in the workplace, we can make STEM fields more accessible and inclusive. Sustainable funding and partnerships, in addition to innovative approaches to education and training, will also play a key role in bridging the gap.

Continuing the conversation

As we move forward, it is essential to continue the conversation surrounding diversity in STEM. By advocating for and supporting inclusive practices, we can build a future where innovation thrives through the collective contributions of a diverse workforce. The pharmaceutical industry must be committed to tackling diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether this is embedding these values into our internal ways of working or creating campaigns which can speak to the public on a personal level, we must be firm advocates to create sustainable change.

Since August 2022, Şeyda Atadan Memis has been the general manager at Takeda in the UK and Ireland, having previously been GM for Takeda in Turkey for almost four years. Prior to working for Takeda, Memis worked at Shire Pharmaceuticals in Turkey for nearly 3 years and Eczacıbaşı-Baxalta for 13 years. Originally, she trained as a Chemical Engineer, has an MBA, and 20 years of pharmaceutical experience. Memis is proud of her lineage, coming from a long line of strong, successful women who worked in male-dominated industries and being a mother to her own two girls. One aspect of her career she is particularly proud of is setting up and working within the Healthcare Working Group of the Professional Women’s Network in Turkey. It is for emerging pharma leaders, to give them a 360-degree perspective on the industry, as well as their careers. She is passionate about increasing diversity in the life sciences industry workforce to better patient outcomes, and tackle imposter syndrome amongst women and those from diverse backgrounds.