Gender stereotypes have long influenced societal expectations, often limiting individuals' perceptions of suitable career paths based on their gender. These stereotypes are introduced early in life, affecting children's aspirations and perpetuating occupational segregation. In the Philippines, instances such as the controversy over educational materials reinforcing traditional gender roles highlight the urgency of addressing this issue (Deiparine, 2020). To combat these stereotypes, it's essential to provide children with resources that promote diverse career aspirations beyond traditional gender norms.

The objective is to develop an interactive website for children that challenges stereotypes in gender-conforming career interests and empowers them to explore their authentic selves freely. Research: Conduct surveys and interviews with children aged 6-8 to understand their perceptions of gender roles in career interests. Education: Develop an interactive website featuring animated visuals and sound effects to educate children about choosing careers without gender limitations. Encouragement: Foster a positive mindset in children to pursue any career path without gender-based hesitation or fear. Accessibility: Offer a physical version of the website as an alternative format.

Children aged 6-8: To assess the prevalence of gender stereotypes in their career aspirations and their engagement with an interactive website designed to address these stereotypes. Parents or guardians of children aged 6-8: To understand their awareness of gender stereotypes in careers and their openness to materials that address these issues for young children. Generation Z individuals (ages 18-27): To explore their reflections on gender-conforming career stereotypes they encountered in childhood and how these experiences influence their current career perspectives.

This project aligns with the United Nations' 4th SDG (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable quality education, and the 5th SDG (Gender Equality) by working towards eliminating gender disparities in career aspirations.

One of the main characters in this story, Ottie, is a Palawan Sea Otter. Palawan Sea Otters are a type of Asian small-clawed Otter. They are known to be the smallest otter species in the world and live near costal wetlands and mountain streams. They were first seen by a group of scientists in 2015 at Cleopatra’s Needle Forest Reserve in the Philippines. Let’s help Palawan Sea Otters by spreading the word and making sure they aren’t forgotten! Ottie is counting on you!