We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Sanon recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with education – we’d love to hear your thoughts about how we can better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career

Despite our ongoing evolution as individuals and societies, formal education remains widely regarded as the primary pathway not only to securing jobs with competitive salaries but also to fostering active participation in society. Formal education, ingrained in traditional learning environments, aims at bolstering students’ academic accomplishments, seeking to attain qualifications like diplomas and degrees. While I acknowledge formal education as a valuable learning avenue, it’s essential to recognize that education encompasses both formal and informal encounters, shaping individuals through diverse experiences.

Education is molded by the knowledge, skills, and lived experiences accumulated by individuals, thus, impacting how individuals contribute meaningfully to society. This occurs through everyday interactions designed to stimulate critical thinking, dialogue, and activism. Therefore, emphasizing individuals’ contributions over their academic credentials can better equip students for fulfilling lives and careers.

I believe education, fundamentally, represents the self-actualization and realization of one’s potential — the capacity to grow, develop, and challenge norms. However, our current education system fails to ensure universal success. The challenges encountered during the pandemic, such as unequal access to resources for virtual learning, underscore systemic shortcomings rooted in historical injustices. Centuries of economic disparities, unjust laws, and discriminatory practices have perpetuated unequal distribution of funding and resources among schools, exacerbating the achievement gap among various demographic groups. The steadily increasing cost of higher education further widens this gap for BIPOC individuals, limiting their access to available jobs. Therefore, the disparities in education quality also translate into unequal access to job opportunities, with many employers still requiring bachelor’s degrees despite evolving job market demands.

However, there is growing recognition that traditional post-secondary education isn’t the sole path to workforce readiness. Alternative avenues like technical certificates and apprenticeship programs offer viable options for skill development and employment, opening doors for diverse candidates such as immigrants and first-generation students to be competitive. These pathways significantly contribute to fostering a diverse workforce,  positively impacting economic growth. Prioritizing the teaching of employability skills can bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, enabling students to succeed in diverse career paths.

If I could change one aspect of our education system, it would be to ensure students acquire skills that enhance their job prospects and overall quality of life. Integrating practical subjects like marketing, sales strategies, or basic accounting into secondary education curricula will challenge conventional notions of job qualifications. Emphasizing the relevance of learning to real-life experiences fosters the motivation to have a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Alongside the integration of practical subjects, prioritizing project-based learning in curricula is essential. In 2017, I ventured into entrepreneurship, founding a company dedicated to dismantling persistent barriers faced by underrepresented women in STEM fields. Through our initiatives, we transcend the confines of traditional classroom approaches, engaging youth in hands-on learning experiences that foster confidence in their mathematical and STEM abilities. These experiences serve as a platform to showcase the interconnectedness of school, work, and life, encouraging students to recognize the practical application of their skills. We redefine STEM education by emphasizing its practical applications, thereby enhancing students’ capacity for critical thinking, effective communication, and sparking curiosity about the depth of their knowledge.

By reframing how educational institutions approach teaching methodologies, prioritizing hands-on experiences can empower students to cultivate these fundamental skills essential for future success: critical thinking, inquiry and imagination, teamwork and collaboration, and effective communication. This shift in perspective will bolster students’ problem-solving capabilities, self-advocacy, and aptitude for pitching concepts that shape their decision-making abilities. Critical thinking enables students to pose pertinent questions and apply their knowledge based on available information; inquiry and imagination foster curiosity and creativity; collaboration and teamwork underscore the advantages of collective effort, as no individual is expected to work in isolation; and effective communication facilitates inclusion and understanding of diverse perspectives. Adopting a skills-based approach will create a more conducive learning environment geared towards future triumphs and will equip students with the skills necessary to navigate complex challenges and thrive in diverse environments, fostering a generation of confident learners poised for success in their future endeavors.

Education should serve as a journey of self-discovery, empowering individuals to actualize their full potential. Rather than fostering competition through standardized processes, our education system ought to prioritize equitable resource allocation based on individual needs. By reassessing both the content and methodology of instruction, we can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment that prepares students for success in an ever-changing world. This shift in focus acknowledges the diverse strengths, interests, and learning styles of students, ensuring that each individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. It promotes a culture of collaboration, empathy, and respect, laying the foundation for a more genuine and equitable future.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am passionate about supporting and building economic mobility and capacity for communities facing systemic barriers. In 2017, I founded sySTEMic flow, a socially driven organization that advances STEM education and math proficiency for women and girls who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). At sySTEMic flow, I have developed and implemented inclusive programs that tackle the issues surrounding the retention of BIPOC women in STEM through a holistic model that bridges the educational and workforce gap within the industry. I have worked across various industries where I advanced new business ventures and program initiatives that strategically address societal gaps in education, housing, and the professional services industry. I have worked with business leaders on their organizations’ recruitment and retention efforts through career development opportunities and DEI programs.

I have over ten years of experience in client management, program and business development, organizational assessment, and project management. I see my work as a community effort, focusing on addressing members’ needs by continuously listening to their perspectives in an open, safe space, and collaborative environment.

I have an MBA in Social Entrepreneurship and Impact Management from the Heller School at Brandeis University. I also hold a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics & Statistics, and Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

The Journey:

Since childhood, I always had a strong interest in all things math, consistently achieving top marks in the subject. It was something that I invested my time in, was passionate about, and that gave me confidence throughout my childhood. Upon high school graduation, I pursued a degree in Mathematics & Statistics with aspirations of becoming a teacher. However, my journey hit a stumbling block when I failed Calculus 1 during my first semester of college. I began to question whether this path was truly meant for me. In most of my college classes, I was the only Black woman, feeling increasingly intimidated by the demanding nature of STEM courses and losing confidence in subjects that had once been my stronghold. Unlike my peers, I realized I lacked access to the rigorous math education necessary for collegiate success, compounded by the absence of representation in my field. Over my four years in college, I recognized that a lack of academic preparedness, absence of diversity in STEM, and limited internship opportunities contributed to my initial struggles in college. I determined that my calling was to do everything in my power to make sure that young BIPOC girls did not experience the same hindrances that I did. In my personal statement when applying for The Heller School at Brandeis University, I pitched the first iteration of the organization that would one day become sySTEMic flow, an organization aimed at empowering young BIPOC girls in STEM.

About sySTEMic flow:

sySTEMic flow bridges the gap between STEM education and math proficiency among students nationwide, explicitly tackling the issues of BIPOC women entering and leaving the STEM workforce. Our mission is to introduce girls and young women to the captivating realms of science and mathematics, fostering a solid understanding of STEM principles. Through our comprehensive approach, we aim to educate, prepare academically, connect with industry leaders, and showcase diverse STEM career paths. Our three-tier model encompasses:

1. Education and Academic Preparation: Equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in school and in life.
2. Connection with STEM Leaders: Facilitating interaction with professionals to find inspiration and mentorship in the industry.
3. Exposure to Diverse STEM Careers: Introducing a range of opportunities within the field.

We develop and implement programs that go beyond the traditional classroom, designing programs that actively engage youth and leverage their learning experiences to boost confidence in mathematical and STEM competencies, particularly among BIPOC girls and women. Research shows that combining these three components will empower youth to continue their educational journey, especially those pursuing opportunities in STEM. Unlike many organizations that limit their support to secondary education, we recognize the importance of bridging the gap between high school and college, strengthening foundational math education, and prioritizing BIPOC girls. Moreover, many programs generalize their efforts, which ultimately is not inclusive. That is why, while many organizations focus on STEM learning, sySTEMic flow’s strategic advantage expands our innovative work in the following ways: (1) bridging the transitional gap between high school and college, (2) strengthening foundational math learning, and (3) focusing directly on BIPOC girls.

By assessing educational access and achievement, our innovative model aims to foster broader diversity and inclusion within the STEM landscape. sySTEMic Flow is dedicated to driving lasting change by empowering individuals and transforming the industry as a whole.

Services provided by sySTEMic Flow:

1. STEM Enrichment Programs: sySTEMic Flow® offers STEM enrichment programs that can be tailored to the needs of a school system or community organization. Programs can range from a 1-day workshop to a 10-week program. sySTEMic Flow® works directly with school systems and/or community organizations to design the program.
2. Get AHEAD Program: In this program, sySTEMic Flow® works directly with school systems to design supplemental Calculus courses for students pursuing STEM degrees. The courses involve small class (~15 students) learning, project-based work, making connections with STEM professionals, and experiential learning through visits to STEM-related local companies. Classes meet once per week (2.5-3 hours) for 15 weeks in Fall/Spring and 7 weeks in the summer.
3. Tutoring Services: sySTEMic Flow® also offers individualized tutoring services in a variety of math courses. These services take place online through an online tutoring marketplace aimed to facilitate the math education of middle and high-school aged children and provide one-to-one, online tutoring instruction to supplement their education.
4. Online Math Institute: sySTEMic Flow® also offers online courses for students in a variety of math subjects. Courses are offered synchronously and are designed to help students and their families fill gaps to ensure they are prepared to move to the next level of math.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

There are many factors that have contributed to establishing my reputation within the industry today. Firstly, community engagement has been pivotal. By actively participating in community events and listening to individuals’ needs and aspirations, I’ve gained valuable insights into what the community seeks for themselves and their children. Additionally, I’ve supported other organizations’ initiatives, including assisting teachers with grant writing to facilitate STEM sessions for their students. Organizing back-to-school drives and providing essential tools like TI-84 calculators to students in grades 8 through 12 have been part of my commitment to giving back to the community without a primary focus on profit.

Before being an entrepreneur, I was someone who loved working behind the scenes. Transitioning from a behind-the-scenes role to actively promoting the business has been a strategic shift. Recognizing the importance of personal engagement and connections, I seize every opportunity to increase visibility, whether through interviews, articles, or pitch competitions. However, the cornerstone of my reputation lies in my personal connection to the educational disparities and mentorship gaps within the field. Being intimately familiar with these challenges enables me to offer solutions through sySTEMic flow that are not only effective but also drive meaningful change.

My journey has taught me that formal education, while valuable, is only part of the learning process. Embracing mistakes, drawing from experiences, and learning from others’ stories have enriched my understanding of education’s broader landscape. As an authentic leader, I strive to exemplify how young girls can transcend stereotypes and excel in STEM fields. Through my experiences and actions, I aim to inspire others and foster a culture of empowerment and inclusion within the industry.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Word of mouth has proven to be a highly effective avenue for acquiring new clients, followed by our annual convention, Future Steminist. This day-long event is tailored for 6th to 12th grade BIPOC girls, immersing them in STEM project-based activities.

Future Steminist serves as a catalyst for forging new partnerships with schools, offering students the chance to engage in the program at no cost. Schools benefit by experiencing our offerings firsthand, allowing them to assess the alignment of our approach with their educational mission. Concurrently, word of mouth plays a pivotal role in bolstering our credibility within the market. Testimonials shared through this approach attract new clients who may not have previously been aware of our services. This underscores the importance of companies mission on skill-building and fostering relevance in learning so that students leave our program becoming confident leaders.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.systemicflow.com/
• Instagram: @systemic_flow
• Facebook: sySTEMic flow
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/systemicflow/?viewAsMember=true
• Other: IG: @jsanonofficial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-sanon/

Image Credits
Credit Three Circles Studio for imagine file names: DSC_3349.jpg and DSC_3379 (1). jpg Credit Hans Verdieu for image file name: IMG_0779.jpg Credit Annette Grant Photography for image file names: AGP-1079.jpg & AGP-1099 copy.jpeg All other photos are from sySTEMic flow. Thank you!