Learning how to build and programme your own robot promotes personal development while also providing a pathway to careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths).

That’s according to two American girls who were at the UN this week to take part in the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum.

Erika Broeker, 17, is a member of Green Girl Robotics while Olivia Crutchfield, also 17, is part of Blue Twilight 2220.

Their organizations field teams that participate in annual robotics competitions in the United States.

Erica began by telling Dianne Penn how the experience has changed her life.