SPOTLIGHT

What is your educational background?

Presently, I am a 4th year Medical Student at University of Abuja, Nigeria. I hope to finish and pursue a career in medical genetics.

What is your current occupation?

I am a full time student. It is quite hectic combining short jobs with medical studies.

What or who got you into STEM?

Truth be told, I am always in for anything concerning Africa to the world, I believe we have so much potential and the world needs to know about it.

What is the biggest challenge/barrier you have faced as an African in STEM?

Opportunities are few and you hardly come across them. Information I feel is vital and we lack that a lot in this part of the world. Few are enlightened about opportunities; the larger populace need this kind of important information to spread out.

Also as a medical student, I must say personally, the challenge I am facing is stress and financial constraints, but I believe with time this continent will become a dreamland.

How do you think your background/upbringing has been beneficial in your journey/career?

Discipline, discipline, discipline. It is very important. I was brought up in a rural area, I was well disciplined, and without that, you can hardly survive medical school. In addition, the way I have been brought up, I know what it means to be successful because I know I would be helping many people if I make it eventually. Therefore, my upbringing has made me develop the mentality that I must make it, for I know what is at stake.

How do you think we can start to change the narrative surrounding African contributions
to global STEM research & careers?

I believe what your initiative has started is something that could go from flickering flames to a blazing inferno. With your proposal, it is one-step towards the right direction. If the platform can help increase level of awareness, then I see no way that the narrative will not change.

What advice would you like to give to young, aspiring Africans in STEM?

As a young person myself, I would say never give up on your dreams, so much depends on it. You’re from Africa, the world almost always sees us as not so important people, it’s your duty to change that belief. Get out of your blanket and make the African map glow.