‘I want to create local opportunity in this lovely small town’

THE LOCAL HEROINE

DR Jan Peters, 54, champions gender equality within the STEM [science, tech, engineering and mathematics] sector. in 2017, she was awarded an MBE for services to women in science and engineering. she is now aiming to drive people back to Christchurch, Dorset, with the creation of a science Discovery Centre. Jan says: ‘I wanted to do more than help out with reading at my daughter’s school, so in 2004 I started by winning a grant for an outdoor science classroom. I’m determined to help young people see the opportunities in STEM careers. I want to create local opportunity and boost local economy in this lovely small town.’ Adrian Dwyer, who nominated Jan, says: ‘Jan is passionate about community and works tirelessly to make Christchurch an appealing place to visit.’