Hidden Figures in the Making

In the face of adversity, three young women scientists became finalists in a NASA competition to apply space technologies to earthly challenges. Supported by their city and community, they overcame discrimination and succeeded. Hear the awe-inspiring story of these three female African American students from Banneker High School in Washington, D.C. who despite a torrent of racist comments and voter dissuasion attempts, went on to win second place in the national NASA competition. Supported by D.C., Mayor, Mayor Muriel E. Bowser who awarded a grant for $4,000 that allowed Mikayla Sharrieff, India Skinner and Bria Snell to build a method to purify lead-contaminated water in school drinking fountains, these three young women proved the power of inclusion and perseverance.