Dr. Sarah Buckland (FST Alum, Department of Geography and Geology) is one of the two accomplished women scientists recognized by the Young Talents Caribbean Region L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science (FWIS) program. She received a significant endowment of US$10,000 to further her scientific endeavors in the field of soil science and geography, focusing on climate change and its impacts in the Caribbean.

Dr. Sarah Buckland conducted her research at the University of the West Indies, Mona, in Jamaica. Her work specifically addresses the effects of climate change on agriculture, with a keen interest in understanding seasonal climate patterns to manage risks during dry seasons. Notably, she investigated the repercussions of the 2014-2015 droughts in Jamaica, highlighting the practical applications of her research in real-world scenarios.

The FWIS program aims to connect Caribbean development challenges with scientific research and female empowerment. The inaugural awards ceremony, held at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus in Trinidad, celebrated the achievements of Dr. Sarah Buckland and her colleague, Sunshine De Caires, MSc. Both women contribute significantly to research on climate change and its implications for the region.

L'Oréal Caribe, in collaboration with UNESCO and the Caribbean Academy of Sciences, emphasized the importance of supporting women in STEM through initiatives like FWIS. The program not only provides financial assistance but also aims to foster a community of women in science, empowering them to excel in their fields and become role models for future generations.

Dr. Anna Paolini, Director and Representative of the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean, highlighted the broader societal transformation initiated by the For Women in Science program, contributing to a more inclusive environment for women in scientific careers.

The collaboration between L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women In Science Programme, UNESCO Office for the Caribbean, and L’Oréal Caribe, supported by the Caribbean Academy of Sciences, signifies a commitment to the long-term empowerment of women scientists in the region. The competitive grant awarded to Dr. Sarah Buckland reflects a forward-looking vision for the initiative to endure and positively impact the region's scientific landscape for years to come.

Photo caption: From left: Mr. Gilles Delaunay (General Manager, L'Oreal Puerto Rico and Caribbean), Ms. Patricia Lewin (UNESCO, Jamaica), Ms. Sunshine De Caires (L'Oreal/UNESCO Caribbean Awardee), Dr. Sarah Buckland (L'Oreal/UNESCO Caribbean Awardee), Dr. Anna Paolini (Director, UNESCO Office, Jamaica), Ms. Rosa Vargas (Communications Manager, L'Oreal Caribe).

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