Beijing Women's Federation

To spark young people’s interest in exploring new energy and showcase the exemplary role of women scientists, the 2025 “Girls Create the Future” Cultivation Program, jointly organized by the Beijing Women’s Federation and the Beijing Association for Science and Technology, invited women scientists specializing in international nuclear cooperation and nuclear technology applications to the Beijing Science Center during the summer vacation. At the event, the scientists engaged with over 300 young attendees and their parents.

Nuclear Technology Applications in Daily Life

How does nuclear power reach our homes? How is nuclear waste managed safely?

Dr. Jiang Xiaoyan, a researcher at the China Institute of Atomic Energy with a PhD in Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Materials, delivered a special lecture titled “The Invisible ‘Little Universe’: How Nuclear Power Plants Light Up Our Homes.” She explained to the students the principles of nuclear power generation, safe utilization of nuclear energy, and green development strategies. “So, the electricity that powers our lights and refrigerators actually comes from nuclear power plants!” she noted. The young participants engaged in lively discussions with Dr. Jiang about nuclear energy applications in food, healthcare, and environmental protection, their eyes filled with curiosity and focus.

International Nuclear Cooperation Promotes Development

What are the strategies to address global warming and improve energy utilization? How can young people equip themselves to participate in international governance through international organizations in the future?

Xiao Lili, a First-Level Researcher at the International Cooperation Department of the China National Atomic Energy Agency and National Liaison Officer for IAEA Technical Cooperation, delivered a lecture titled “Empowering Global Nuclear Development through International Organizations.” She vividly demonstrated the role of nuclear energy in addressing global warming and advancing China’s dual-carbon goals, while also guiding participants on a virtual tour of the IAEA and other international organizations. She also shared her career journey in bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the nuclear field, earning rounds of applause from the young participants. After posing a question, one girl excitedly said, “Ms. Xiao has always pursued her dreams and worked tirelessly, actively representing China in international organizations. Her story deeply inspires me. I want to study hard so that one day I, too, can shine on the international stage.”

The event was also live-streamed online. Zhang Shiwei, a student from Class 8, Grade 8, Experimental Huaxia Girls’ School at Beijing Normal University, said, “The lecture gave me a glimpse into the achievements of women in the nuclear field. Their dedication to scientific research and international affairs deeply inspired me and made me realize that women can also shine brightly in the world of science.”

Fun Scientific Experiments for Educational Enjoyment

To make scientific knowledge tangible, visible, and hands-on, the event featured a series of scientific experiments and interactive experiments on new energy. Experiments such as Helium Airships, Wireless Electric Lamps, and Ethanol Rockets vividly demonstrated energy conversion principles, leaving young participants at times breathless with anticipation and at other times cheering with excitement. Interactive exhibits like the Electricity-Generating Cotton Candy Machine and the Power Hammer allowed children to experience firsthand how technology transforms everyday life. Challenge activities such as New Energy Magic Puzzles and the Sandbag Target Game immersed participants in the applications of nuclear technology in a fun and engaging way.

From September to November, the 2025 “Girls Create the Future” Cultivation Program will feature activities such as Innovation Thinking Camps, Model United Nations, and Science & Technology Creativity Workshops.