Native Scientists won the LABME Innovación Social award

We were awarded for our contribution to social innovation by the Magallanes-Elcano Awards scheme

Science communication plays a key role in building a more informed and equitable society. In this regard, the Magallanes-Elcano Awards, organized by LABME Innovación Social, highlight projects that promote social innovation, inclusion, and accessible education in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America.

During the 5th edition of the awards, Native Scientists was recognized in the Education and Learning category, a significant milestone in our journey. The recognition  reinforces the impact of our programmes. Moreover,  the access to specialized mentorship and networks of innovative projects aligned with our values, represents a valuable opportunity for their empowerment and expansion. Indeed we have already achieved 30% of the goal to create 100,000 meaningful connections between children and scientists by 2030, highlighting the ongoing positive impact we generate.

The application process for the Magallanes-Elcano Awards, as Beatriz Amado, Consolidation and Development Lead at Native Scientists, explains, involved a rigorous journey that required a detailed presentation of Native Scientists' impact and work. “The result was kept secret until the ceremony, so it was very exciting when, in front of an auditorium full of entrepreneurs and change members Maria Dias and Margarida Morim heard the name of the Same Home Town Programme announced as the winner of the category,” says Beatriz.

Margarida shares that she and Maria, both Programme Managers at Native Scientists, trembled as they took the stage to receive the award and emphasizes that the prize not only served as an internal source of motivation for the team but also strengthened the external perception of Native's impact. “It made me feel part of a transformative movement and the building of a better future,” she says.

Beatriz shares that although the award is not monetary, it has brought true wealth in terms of capacity building and networking for the organization. Beatriz mentions that she has been developing new strategies for fundraising and promoting the organization. These meetings have been essential for generating and validating initiatives that drive Nativeforward, with the support of experts and the opportunity to establish strategic partnerships.

In addition to the new contacts and insights brought by the award, which have been crucial for the continuous growth of Native Scientists, thanks to this award there is a general sense that we are on the right path to promote scientific literacy in Portugal, making the country a more just, equitable, and informed place.

About Native Scientists

Native Scientists is a pan-European organisation that connects scientists with local communities to promote scientific literacy, cultural pride, and educational equity. Through innovative workshops, it inspires the next generation of scientists while celebrating the richness of linguistic and cultural diversity.