Julia Wagemann’s vision is clear: she wants to build a geospatial industry that is truly inclusive, where all genders can thrive and have equal opportunities. She believes that diversity isn’t just a box to check—it’s the foundation of progress.
Her journey has been shaped by the realization that women and non-binary individuals in geospatial and Earth observation often struggle to find the same opportunities as their male counterparts. Rather than accepting the status quo, Julia took action. Through Women+ in Geospatial, she is working to reshape the industry, ensuring that diverse voices are not just included but amplified. Her vision is about more than representation—it’s about empowerment, community, and transformation.
“Let’s make the geospatial industry a place where everyone can thrive. We can’t afford to lose talented people due to lack of support or inclusivity. This is something we must build together.”
Julia believes that change is a collective responsibility. She calls on companies, organizations, and individuals to take an active role in creating a more inclusive industry. Whether it’s mentoring, funding initiatives, or simply sharing the stories of underrepresented professionals, every action counts.
Passion
Julia’s passion for geospatial sciences didn’t come from a textbook—it came from life itself. Growing up in a tiny village with just ten houses, she was always eager to explore beyond her surroundings. She craved adventure and the chance to see the world. That passion led her across continents, from Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, where she worked as a diving instructor, to the French Alps, where she experienced the power of geography firsthand.
It was these early experiences—living in extreme environments, witnessing the delicate balance of nature, and seeing how geography shapes human existence—that sparked her lifelong love for Earth observation. When she eventually pursued geography at university, she wasn’t just studying maps and data. She was uncovering the stories of the world, piecing together the interconnectedness of landscapes, climate, and human activity.
“I had a real desire to understand our Earth, how space is shaped, and how it influences everything around us. That’s what led me to study geography and, eventually, geospatial sciences.”
Action
In 2019, Julia posted a simple tweet—a call for women in geospatial to come together. She never expected what happened next: within two days, over 300 people had signed up, eager to join a movement that didn’t yet exist. That tweet sparked something greater than she could have imagined: the birth of Women+ in Geospatial.
Today, that movement has grown into a global network of 5,500+ members across 149 countries. Through mentorship programs, community-building, and leadership initiatives, Julia and her team have built a space where women and non-binary individuals can connect, support each other, and rise together. Their work isn’t just about networking—it’s about breaking down systemic barriers, fostering confidence, and opening doors that have long been closed.
“The community lives by how much people give and share. The more you contribute, the more you get back. And through mentorship, networking, and shared learning, we are shaping a stronger, more diverse industry.”
Tenacity
Building Women+ in Geospatial wasn’t easy. The early days were fueled by enthusiasm, but Julia and her team quickly realized that creating real, lasting impact required more than good intentions. They had to navigate the difficult transition from a grassroots movement to a structured nonprofit, balancing growth with sustainability.
They made mistakes. They experimented. They faced tough decisions—should they expand, formalize leadership, introduce governance structures? Every step forward required difficult conversations and unwavering commitment. But they pressed on, knowing that their mission mattered.
The transformation from an informal community to a registered nonprofit with strategic goals, leadership structures, and long-term sustainability wasn’t just a necessary evolution—it was a test of resilience. Julia and her team climbed that mountain, and while the journey isn’t over, they now stand on solid ground.
“We realized that to have a lasting impact, we needed more structure. Transitioning to a nonprofit organization was a mountain to climb, and we are still climbing. But staying focused on our long-term mission and making strategic decisions has been key.”
Humility
Despite her leadership and the movement she’s helped create, Julia remains deeply humbled by the passion of those around her. She knows that Women+ in Geospatial isn’t just about her—it’s about the thousands of people who give their time, energy, and expertise to build something greater than themselves.
Every mentorship pairing, every conference panel, every success story is a reminder that change happens through collective effort. The organization thrives because so many people believe in it, and that belief has fueled real-world transformations.
It humbles me to see what is possible when people come together for a shared cause. We are all volunteers, giving several hours a week, yet we’ve built something truly impactful.”
Impact
Women+ in Geospatial is more than a network—it’s a lifeline for many professionals. Through mentorship, career connections, and advocacy, Julia and her team have helped members land jobs, gain confidence, and carve out spaces where they previously felt invisible.
The organization’s success stories are countless: individuals who once felt isolated in male-dominated workplaces now have a thriving support system; professionals who never thought they could reach leadership roles now mentor others; women and non-binary individuals who lacked representation now see leaders who look like them at the forefront of the industry.
“Seeing people grow professionally, find jobs, and feel supported in this industry—these small but meaningful changes add up to a bigger impact. That’s what keeps us going.”
Connect
Website: Women+ in Geospatial
LinkedIn: Women+ in Geospatial
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