Neutralina: promoting science and gender-equality in Latin-America

TL;DR

Neutralina is a social media initiative aimed at promoting women in science and combating stereotypes and misinformation in Latin America through diverse outreach formats.

Contribution

It introduces a novel science communication personality on Instagram to normalize women in science and expand outreach into multiple formats.

Findings

Gained a sizable young audience on Instagram

Expanded outreach through podcasts and conferences

Implemented strategies to engage young Latin American audiences

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed certain societal weaknesses, including the lack of scientists in the media and the readiness of the public to believe in fake news. "Neutralina" is a science communication personality created on Instagram (@neutralina.lu) in response to the observed need for scientific outreach done by women in Peruvian and Latin American society. The objectives of this project include normalizing the presence of women in science, fighting against stereotypes and fake news, and disseminating scientific knowledge. Neutralina has attracted a sizable young audience and is expanding beyond Instagram into other formats such as podcasts, real-life conferences, and roundtable discussions. Statistics detailing its growth will be presented, alongside strategies employed to engage the young audience.