APS Students Help Launch 'No Limits' On National STEM Day

ATLANTA, GA — More than 30 Atlanta Public Schools participated in a new National Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) focused initiative that aims to combat gender stereotypes last Friday. About 2,500 first-graders took part in interactive assemblies through the “No Limits” program, a national initiative between Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) and Mattel, said the companies in a joint news release. Atlanta was one of their launching cities.

The Nov. 8 event served as the kick off of a nationwide effort to inspire more than 50,000 young girls to challenge gender roles and consider STEM careers. The “No Limits” initiative was created by Mercedes-Benz in partnership with Mattel and the National Girls Collaborative Project (NGCP). The first No Limits programs launched in Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York City. Children will be able to participate in special workshops.

“Whatever they aspire to be – an astronaut, engineer, judge, nurse, even the President, we want all children to dream big, dream bold and never give up on that dream,” said Mark Aikman, general manager of marketing services for MBUSA in the news release. “We’ve seen that stories like Ewy’s – championing women trailblazers and achievers – can have a big impact by calling into question the gender stereotypes that children may inadvertently adopt.”

Now through February 2020, girls across the U.S. through more than 100 organizations will engineer toy racetracks, design cars, engage with female role models and attend STEM workshops through programs designed to expand how they see their future.

Atlanta Public Schools, Digital Girl, Inc., Beyond the Bell are just a few of the more than 100 organizations participating. A list of all organizations participating in No Limits is available on the National Girls Collaborative website.

MBUSA and Mattel will donate 50,000 toy cars to combat the social stigma that only boys can play with the popular toy. The gift is an Ewy Matchbox toy replica of the first car Ewy Rosqvist raced in. She was the first woman to compete in and win a race at the Argentinian Grand Prix. The toy will also be sold in stores nationwide beginning in December.

Follow the No Limits initiative on social media with the hashtag #GirlsHaveNoLimits.