What is #DifferenceMakers?
Launched to celebrate our 150th anniversary, this movement was all about telling stories of incredible people who are doing incredible things to engineer a better and more sustainable world
From videos and GIFs, to memes and TikToks, we reacted to topical news and told unbelievable stories in an authentic and unexpected way, sharing the magic of engineering and technology behind the things we take for granted – especially when it comes to making greener choices or solving some of our greatest climate challenges!
This was an opportunity to really connect with young people, especially those who unfamiliar with STEM but passionate about changing the world. We reached them through these stories of #DifferenceMakers, as well as through compelling partnerships leaning on the passion points of gaming, music and fashion.
This campaign was our way to continue changing perceptions about how STEM can help us tackle these great global issues – from creating carbon negative clothing to cleaning the ocean floor. But more than that, we established a community of young #DifferenceMakers who will make a change themselves, however great or small, and inspire others to do the same.
#DifferenceMakers are everywhere!
We used this special year as the perfect excuse to revisit and redefine what engineering excellence looks like – by asking you, the public, to nominate pioneers and trailblazers from STEM past, present and future. Our Celebrating Impact campaign recognises a much truer breadth and depth of incredible engineers and technologists who make up our industry. Check out who made our final inspirational list of engineers – also featured in our stairwell exhibition at IET London: Savoy Place.
Check out some phenomenal people who featured as guests in the 2020 President’s Address: 150 years of difference-makers, available to view on-demand.