Vanessa Almeida
Uplifting Underprivileged Youth through STEM, Nature, and the Power of Community
Dr. Vanessa Almeida holds a PhD in Forest Engineering, is a professor at the Federal University of Tocantins in Brazil, and pioneered the Forest School Project which gives hands-on STEM education to over 4500 underprivileged youth, but once attended a school herself where math and physics were not properly taught. Her story is one of incredible tenacity, resourcefulness, and ingenuity in helping one’s community.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Almeida spent much of her childhood exploring Brazil’s lush rainforests and vibrant ecosystems that nurtured an early fascination with the environment. To pursue STEM, she worked hard to earn her place at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro’s high school. After taking an agricultural technical course here in addition to being accepted to extension programs at local schools, she discovered her passion for environmental education and science outreach, particularly in supporting underserved communities.
Before graduating from a bachelor’s in Forest Engineering, Almeida moved to the United States as an au pair, determined to learn English to aid her goal of going to grad school after finishing her bachelor’s. Here, her time volunteering at the Harvard Museum of Natural History and seeing how the museum sparked curiosity in visitors of all ages deepened her belief in the power of STEM outreach—something she knew she wanted to contribute to.
Now a professor who holds a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate in Forest Engineering, specializing in wood technology and non-wood forest products, Almeida uses her extensive knowledge and commitment for social change through science education to lead initiatives like the Forest School Project and Math Literacy Project. Almeida describes these projects as “reducing educational and social inequalities, expanding students’ life perspectives, promoting the science and technology developed on our campus, and reinforcing the university’s role as a public and inclusive space”. Founded in 2019 and beginning as a small initiative that welcomed a handful of students from local schools to explore the Laboratory of Forest Products at the Federal University of Tocantins, the Forest School Project has grown to reach over 4500 students. Students get to participate in hands-on experiments in the lab involving chemistry, biology, and material science. The Project has expanded well beyond laboratory experiences and also includes engineering workshops that allow students to learn about mechanics, prototyping, and topography; astronomy and space science, where students get to use astronomical instruments to learn about outer space; and community-centred science, where in just the last year the Project worked with local farmers to build wooden solar greenhouses key to sustaining local agricultural as well as creating education games to introduce wood science to students in an engaging way.
When asked about why she is so passionate about STEM, Almeida states, “What excites me most about STEM is the way it unites such important fields of work. I deeply respect how it brings together the knowledge that shapes everything we see around us.”
As a woman in STEM, Almeida has faced her share of challenges. Early in her career, she encountered moments of skepticism and unfair treatment, particularly when a former campus director openly questioned her leadership role in the Forest School project. Additionally, her experiences with imposter syndrome have also shaped her approach to leadership—she initially hesitated to take center stage in her projects, preferring to highlight her students and colleagues. But over time, she recognized the importance of embracing her role as a visible advocate for STEM education. Today, she actively works on building confidence, stepping into public speaking opportunities, and inspiring other women to take ownership of their accomplishments.
On her vision for the future, Almeida shares, “When I think of STEM, I picture a science museum where professionals collaborate to inspire kids, youth, and even older generations. My passion lies in that connection—it sparks curiosity and drives positive changes in the world.”
Fun Facts about Vanessa
Favorite Food: Shrimp
Favorite part of STEM: Changing lives
Favorite Movie/TV show: Anne with an E
Go-to Karaoke song: Miracle (Celine Dion)—of course, I can't sing!
Dogs or cats: Both and rabbits
A Guilty Pleasure: Chocolate, chocolate, and chocolate
Profile written by Sofia Sejutee.