The Equation of Confidence

Confidence is not about being free from fear; it's about choosing to take action despite having it. The film, Hidden Figures, powerfully conveys this message through Katherine Johnson's story. When she entered a room full of male engineers at NASA, she faced doubt and skepticism. However, her trust in her knowledge and abilities allowed her to push through, proving crucial to one of the most important space missions in US history.

Her story highlights that confidence goes beyond just believing in oneself. It involves refusing to let outside obstacles determine where one belongs. As a Black woman in a segregated, male-dominated field, Johnson could have easily been pushed aside. Instead, her confidence drove her to solve problems that no one else could, directly helping John Glenn complete his successful orbit around Earth. The story emphasizes how confidence can break barriers. Dorothy Vaughan’s skill in programming and Mary Jackson’s drive for engineering roles further show that women's confidence isn’t confined to one area. It is broad and demonstrates that women can excel in math, science, engineering, or any field historically led by men.

Confidence in Hidden Figures also highlights a group aspect. By stepping forward with certainty, Johnson, Vaughan, and Jackson opened doors for others. Their confidence was not just about their success—it created opportunities for future generations of women to enter STEM careers. This legacy makes it clear that confidence is infectious. When women boldly enter places where they are not valued, they show that limits can be challenged. Confidence, as portrayed in Hidden Figures, is not just about fitting into existing frameworks; it’s about transforming them completely.

• Nishka Gandu, Frisco, TX , 12th Grade , Instagram - @nishka_gandu

Works Cited

Cabral, Carrie. “The Women of Hidden Figures: Who They Are, Why They’re Heroes.” Shortform Books, 2 June 2020, www.shortform.com/blog/women-of-hidden-figures/. Accessed 29 September 2025.

Ireland, Danyelle T., et al. “(Un)Hidden Figures: A Synthesis of Research Examining the Intersectional Experiences of Black Women and Girls in STEM Education.” Review of Research in Education, vol. 42, no. 1, Mar. 2018, pp. 226-254. SAGE Publications.

“Hidden Figures Highlights the Ongoing Legacy of Women and Minorities in STEM.” Brookings, 2015 (or the year published), Brookings Institution, www.brookings.edu/articles/hidden-figures-highlights-the-ongoing-legacy-of-women-and-minorities-in-stem/. Accessed 29 September 2025.

“On ‘Hidden Figures’ and Being the Only Woman in the Room.” RAND Corporation, 12 Mar. 2017, www.rand.org/pubs/commentary/2017/03/on-hidden-figures-and-being-the-only-woman-in-the-room.html. Accessed 29 September 2025.