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 helped pioneer the Forest School Project which gives hands-on STEM education to over 6000 students from kindergarten to high school, but once attended a school herself where math and physics were not properly taught. Her story is one of incredible tenacity, resourcefulness, and collaboration in helping one’s community.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Almeida spent much of her childhood exploring the lush Atlantic Forest and its vibrant ecosystems throughout the state of Rio de Janeiro, which 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 to expand science education. Collaborating with students, technical staff, and other professors, she helps 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 6000 youth from various backgrounds, the majority of whom hail from underprivileged areas. 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 activities that emphasize teamwork. Other initiatives Almeida has collaborated on is working with local farmers to build wooden solar greenhouses that are key to sustaining local agriculture, as well as creating educational 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.