WIQD Annual Symposium 2025: Celebrating We in Quantum
The WIQD Annual Symposium 2025 brought together an inspiring community of quantum professionals, advocates, and allies to foster a more inclusive, supportive, and collaborative quantum ecosystem.
This year’s theme, We in Quantum, celebrated the rich tapestry of experiences shaping the quantum world. Participants were invited to share their perspectives, build new connections, and gain valuable insights at the intersection of quantum, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
We kicked off the day with an eye-opening keynote by Deborah Nas, who challenged us to envision the future of quantum innovation when powered by diverse teams. Her talk set the tone for the day: forward-looking, inclusive, and inspiring.
Judith Kreukels then unveiled WIQD’s updated mission and branding — a shift from Women in Quantum Development to We in Quantum Development — This rebranding reflects WIQD’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and intersectional community within the quantum ecosystem. The shift encompasses the important work that WIQD were already doing and highlights their goal to create a more inclusive ecosystem where everyone feels that they belong.
In the panel discussion Diverse Experiences in Quantum, we heard from Taryn Stefanski, QphoX, Yuri van der Werf, TU Eindhoven, and Vivian Acquah, Inclusion Strategist. Vivian left us with a powerful challenge: to actively advocate for the work WIQD is doing and to amplify their message.
The panel closed with a thought-provoking question:
“What micro-activities can we build into our daily lives to help create a more diverse quantum ecosystem?”
After a lively networking lunch, participants joined various interactive workshops.
One standout was “Quantum Minds: Embracing Neurodivergence in the Quantum Ecosystem”, hosted by Karim El Oteify, Wheels of Impact. Karim highlighted the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, who often must advocate for themselves in environments not designed with their perspectives in mind.
They reminded us: “Allyship is not just about getting people through the door. It’s about dismantling the barriers that keep them out.”
Meanwhile, Annelie Wambeek led a fantastic session on “Engaging Cultural Diversity in Global Quantum Teams.” Together, we explored the working definition of culture as “the way we do things around here”. The session gave us tools to recognize unconscious biases, foster inclusive environments, and lead diverse teams with intention and empathy.
We closed the day with a collaborative collage session, where attendees creatively mapped their vision for the future of quantum. It was a fitting end to a day full of connection, creativity, and commitment to inclusion.
A huge thank you to the WIQD team and the organising committee for their tireless efforts and the work they do for our community.
