500 Women Scientitsts (500ws) is a grassroots organization started in the USA by women who, following the 2016 election, decided to set-up an organisation with the mission to serve society by making science open, inclusive, and accessible. 500ws works to build communities and foster real change that comes from small groups, not large crowds. Local pods are set-up and managed by volunteer self-identified women in science and contribute to achieve 500WS's mission by empowering women to grow to their full potential in science; increasing scientific literacy through public engagement; and advocating for science and equality.