Take the Initiative: Building an Inclusive SWE Community in Ecuador

What happens when a small group of women engineers takes the initiative to challenge the status quo in a country where SWE had no presence? You start a movement. In Ecuador, women in engineering face barriers beyond representation—limited leadership roles, lack of institutional support, and scarce networking. Instead of seeing the disadvantage of being few as a limitation, we need to turn it into an opportunity. By engaging men as allies, we built a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone could thrive in STEM. Establishing a SWE affiliate was not just about forming a student group; it was about transforming the culture, gaining university recognition, and creating lasting opportunities for women engineers. Whether you are launching a new affiliate or strengthening an existing one, this session will equip you with concrete strategies to expand your impact, build a thriving, sustainable community, and foster a culture of inclusion in engineering.