ACM Scholar Spotlights: Akshara Pande
Welcome to ACM Scholar Spotlights, a series where we shine a light on the inspiring paths of women in computing who received the 2025 ACM-W scholarship. Through their own words, we hear how they found their place in tech, what motivates them, and how they’re making an impact. These stories reflect not only technical achievement, but also courage, curiosity, and community.
In this edition, we highlight the inspiring journey of Akshara Pande, whose work spans AI, robotics, and interdisciplinary innovation. Through their reflections on womENcourage, they shares how community, collaboration, and mentorship continue to shape their path in technology.
Introduction
I have always enjoyed applying logic and mathematics to solve problems, which naturally drew me toward programming. I completed my Master’s in Computer Science, and later, this knowledge helped me during my PhD research. As a postdoctoral fellow, I began exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence with Robotics, through which I gained valuable insights for applying these technologies to improve education and healthcare.
Currently, as an Associate Professor, interacting with bright and curious minds broadens my own perspective and keeps me motivated to innovate both in my research and in my teaching methods. My long-term goal is to conduct impactful, interdisciplinary research that benefits society and contributes meaningfully to human well-being.
What helped me reach where I am today is a combination of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering support system, including my family, mentors, and friends, who constantly encouraged me to pursue my dreams and overcome challenges.
My womENcourage Experience
This was my second time attending womENcourage. I previously participated in Trondheim in 2023, which was an incredible experience. However, this year was special because, for the first time, our team (Prof. Deepti Mishra, Shrabanti Kundu, and I) from the Educational Technology Research Laboratory at the NTNU in Gjøvik (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) had the opportunity to organize a workshop titled “Innovative Teaching with Social Robots: A Path to Interactive Learning.” This rewarding experience allowed us to engage more actively.
The interactions with other women in technology were truly enriching — hearing their stories, challenges, and successes created a sense of solidarity and motivation. The keynote presentations were equally inspiring, filled with insights from accomplished female leaders who are shaping the future of tech.
Conducting our workshop gave us a chance to explore participants’ perceptions and experiences of social robots in education, which offered new research perspectives and valuable qualitative insights.
And, of course, the dinner was delightful, not only because of the excellent food but also due to the cultural performances (music and dance) that showcased Romanian traditions. It beautifully reflected the spirit of diversity and inclusivity that womENcourage represents.
How womENcourage Inspires Me
womENcourage continues to inspire me by highlighting remarkable female role models in technology and research. Their journeys remind me that persistence and passion can overcome barriers, and that collaboration among women can lead to meaningful change in the academic and professional world. It strengthens my belief in the power of mentorship, representation, and community.
What I Learned for My Career Growth
Through womENcourage, I learned the importance of building strong networks, actively collaborating across disciplines, and sharing our research beyond academia to reach broader audiences. This experience reinforced my motivation to continue supporting diversity in STEM and to ensure that the next generation of women scientists feel both represented and supported.
Advice for Future Participants
womENcourage provides an excellent platform to connect. I would encourage women participants to come with an open mind and a willingness to connect. Participate actively in discussions, attend workshops, and don’t hesitate to share your ideas or research, even if it’s in early stages. Also, take time to build lasting professional friendships; many collaborations and mentorships begin with simple conversations at such events.
womENcourage is more than just a conference — it’s a celebration of women in technology, a network of support, and a source of continued inspiration. It reminds me why I entered this field: to learn, to innovate, and to make a difference.