The campaign for real role models

role models - role model of the month

Every month we are featuring a Real Role Model of the Month. These are women who inspire us and prove that we can be whatever we want to be. We will feature women from all backgrounds, all walks of life and with all kinds of experiences. We want to tell their stories and show all children that the possibilities out there are endless.

MAGGIE ADERIN-POCOCK

Maggie Aderin-Pocock was born in London in 1968. She suffered with dyslexia as a child and recalls 'I saw an astronaut on a beautiful book in my primary school library” when she told her teacher she wanted to be an astronaut, they suggested she try nursing instead, as ‘that was science too’. But Maggie persisted with her dreams and now has a physics degree and a PHD in Mechanical Engineering. While she hasn’t yet made it into space,  she makes bespoke instrumentation for space missions. As she tells audiences of children around the world 'I actually build satellites that go up in space'

She runs her own company, Science Innovation Ltd, which engages children and adults all over the world with the wonders of space travel.

In 2006 she was one of six ‘Women of Outstanding Achievement’ winners with GetSET Women and last year she was awarded an MBE. She is also just about to become a mother. Her dreams of space travel still persist - as her retirement plan is to emigrate to Mars.

We think she is an awesome role model.