Elisa Durney on Building Girls in Quantum into a Global STEM Movement before turning 19

Think you’re too young or too inexperienced to make a global impact?Meet Elisa Torres-Durney, a 19-year-old Chilean student, UNESCO Advisor, and the visionary behind Girls in Quantum, a UN recognised global initiative making STEM and quantum education more accessible to youth worldwide against financial, political or institutional barriers.Annie sits down with Elisa to unpack how she turned early curiosity into a worldwide QUANTUM movement all before age 19. Elisa shares the personal and cultural challenges she’s faced, the importance of building community in male-dominated industries, and how she stays grounded while balancing university life with leading a social enterprise.Celebrate the 2025 International Year of Quantum with us and tune in to learn:How online education during the pandemic opened unexpected doors to QUANTUM COMPUTINGThe mindset shifts needed to overcome imposter syndromeWhy you're never too young to create meaningful changeWhat every founder needs to keep going when rejection hitsWhether you're a student, early-career professional, or dreaming of starting your own venture, this episode will challenge your idea of what’s possible... at any age!Explore the Third Culture lens at https://www.lowtogrow.com⁠⁠ !Instagram: ⁠@lowtogrowpodcast⁠YouTube: @lowtogrow⁠SAY HI at ⁠[email protected]⁠ :)Chapters:00:00 Introduction to a Young Trailblazer02:34 Elisa's Early Inspirations and Journey05:58 Overcoming Challenges in Quantum Education08:49 Building a Global Community in Quantum11:28 Finding Financing for US University Applications13:33 Balancing Education and Social Impact16:42 Cultural Shock and Personal Growth19:09 Redefining Success Through Community Engagement21:06 The Essence of Success22:27 Navigating Career Choices24:18 Role Models and Inspiration25:12 Women in Science Facing Rejection Before Breakthrough26:20 Embracing the Entrepreneurial Journey26:24 Everything Was Once an Innovation28:37 Every Founder Needs Perseverance29:43 Learning from Rejections32:09 Elisa's Biggest Challenge with Girls in Quantum35:57 Mental Health and ReflectionFollow Elisa:Website: https://www.girlsinquantum.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisa-torres-durneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisatdney/?hl=en-gbPlease Note: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. If you're struggling, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional. For free resources, visit ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/⁠.