Provoca is an AUI/NRAO initiative to promote STEM vocations among underserved groups, with a focus in Chile, but a motivation and messages that are universal in their appeal. It is a play on words that works both as an acronym ("Pro"-mote "voca"-tions) as well as an invitation to “provoke” awareness and change. Despite hosting many world-class NSF-funded observatories, Chile lags behind most OECD and Latin American countries in terms of female participation and retention in STEM careers. To address this challenge and broaden participation, Provoca focuses on role models, mentoring and development of key skills (professional and personal) to inspire and support girls in their journey to become STEM professionals. As the largest and most obvious under-represented minority in STEM, the initiative first focused on girls and women, but has also included indigenous communities in northern Chile, socially and economically disadvantaged students, migrants and people with disabilities. To impact students, teachers, parents and everyone who influences perceptions of self-efficacy and career choices, short videos were produced to highlight STEM female role models and high school girls who aspire to pursue careers in these fields. The intersectionality shown in these videos make their messages compelling for audiences across different countries and cultures.

Credit: NRAO/AUI/NSF