VIENNA, 7 October 2024 – The documentary Woman in Motion by American director Todd Thompson is about the extraordinary life of Nichelle Nichols, who became one of the first black women to play a lead role on television. Known for portraying Lieutenant Uhura in Star Trek, Nichols grew up as a musical theatre actress, yet her perseverance and determination changed the world. It was not long after that Nichols collaborated with NASA and embarked on a four-month campaign to recruit the first Black, Latino, and Asian men and women to fly in space. Nichols helped to break down social barriers, uniting society as one.
In her opening remarks Ambassador and US Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Laura S. H. Holgate mentioned the importance of diversity and inclusivity for women, minorities and people of colour worldwide. Holgate emphasized the value of the ongoing dialogues and conversations about race, especially in the United States, and the collective responsibility to continue advocating for equal justice.
After the screening, an engaging conversation between the panellists – moderated by United Nations Information Service (UNIS) Director Martin Nesirky - took place. Film director Todd Thompson joined this special event and explained the film-making process. Illustrating his passion “for great stories”, Thompson said he was inspired by Nichol’s life and knew from the very moment that he wanted to be a part of this amazing journey.
Sandra Häuplik-Meusburger, space architect at the Technical University Vienna highlighted how important it is to encourage women within STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) professions. As an educator, Häuplik-Meusburger founded the space architecture programme and science academy for 14 to 16-year-olds who are interested in learning about space. She mentioned the importance of encouraging young people in teaching and education, saying: “Those people have to believe in themselves that they can do whatever they want.”
The Director of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), Aarti Holla-Maini, was asked about the organization’s work for diversity and inclusivity. Holla-Maini mentioned UNOOSA’S Space4women programme which encourages women to join the space sector. This year, the UNOOSA team will be taking their expertise to a meeting in Kenya, which has connected 245 isolated schools in rural areas with marginalized girls so they have access to a one-hour-per-week AI generated maths wiz programme. This initiative once more highlighted the importance of satellite technology for the achievement of the SDGs.
Ruth-Sophie Taubner, scientific coordinator at the Space Research Institute in Graz, alluded to the importance of films and how they can influence an individual's life. Growing up inspired by the film Jurassic Park, Ruth said: “I am one of those people who believe in the power of films”. She emphasized how storytelling can empower individuals, especially children and adolescents.
Nichelle Nichol’s ambitious goals and determination left the audience feeling moved and inspired. The documentary’s key message highlighted that people become the strongest when they have the courage to be themselves.
