A technician who runs a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) club at an Ilford girls school has been made an MBE.

Rosemary (Rose) Russell has become the school role model she never had when she was growing up for members of her STEM club at The Ursuline Academy.

In what she described as the "ultimate accolade", Rose has now been made an MBE for services to education and diversity in STEM through her club, Visualize.

She said: "Role models are so important. When I was at school I never had these kind of opportunities.

Ilford Recorder: Rose works closely with inspired pupils at The Ursuline Academy in IlfordRose works closely with inspired pupils at The Ursuline Academy in Ilford (Image: David Wallbank)

"How I wished I did - and for someone from my background (both parents from the Windrush generation who came over and worked hard to make a better life for their children), I’ve seen first-hand the huge benefits such opportunities has given our girls at the Ursuline."

Rose set up the extracurricular club in 2010 in a mission to help bridge the gender and skills gap in the industry. 

While Rose is the one accepting the honour, she believes none of it would have been possible without friends, family, colleagues and the Visualize members. 

She said: "I think any recognition for the work you do is motivation to continue, it’s what’s kept the doors of Visualize STEM Club open for so long."

Ilford Recorder: Rose pictured with some of the Visualize members at the Mayor of London's 'Design Future London' eventRose pictured with some of the Visualize members at the Mayor of London's 'Design Future London' event (Image: Rose Russell)

Originally trained in fashion, she admitted "I am not an engineer or a scientist" but described The Ursuline Academy as "the perfect environment" for supporting girls curious about the industry. 

Rose said: "We need more diversity in this industry and if this honour allows me to open bigger doors, I’ll be knocking, if only to allow students  the opportunity to step in.

"[...] Dream big, work hard, and don't be afraid to challenge the status quo. You have the potential to make a significant impact, and the STEM community will be richer with your involvement."