L’Oréal campaign hopes to give disadvantaged youth an insight into science

Generating Genius is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) that supports talented young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to realise their potential in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths).

As part of the collaboration, the cosmetics manufacturer has showcased the wealth of careers studying science can lead to and encouraged the students to pursue a related degree at university in a four month hands-on programme.

Programme offers insight​

The programme sees a group of 17 year olds from London schools take part in creative science and engineering workshops at the L’Oréal Young Scientist Centre at the Royal Institution, as well as meet scientists from industry and academia, and experience the practical applications of cosmetic science and marketing at a behind the scenes visit to L’Oréal’s UK headquarters.

“The resource that we’ve created at the L’Oréal Young Scientist Centre at the Royal Institution has been hugely valuable in giving these bright students the opportunity to become scientists for the day – showing them just how creative science can be,”​ says Michel Brousset, Managing Director of L’Oréal UK & Ireland.

“I can certainly see how the Generating Genius programme – particularly in its work with large companies such as L’Oréal – gives young people from disadvantaged backgrounds the support and encouragement to apply for and get STEM degree places at top universities.”​

Initiative​

The programme forms part of L’Oréal’s pledge to the ‘Your Life Campaign’ which aims to encourage greater participation amongst young people, particularly girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

It is also an initiative that has been well received by Generating Genius, and its founder and director, Dr Tony Sewell says that it meets all of its big objectives, mainly to help students understand science in an applied context.

“All of our students are on track to get a high grade at A-level. The programme will not only give these students increased academic knowledge, but also the development of self-confidence and communication skills necessary to access our top universities and companies,”​ he explains.