Across Africa, women are making groundbreaking contributions in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Despite challenges such as limited access to resources and gender bias, these women have carved out successful careers and made several impacts. Their stories show that with determination, education, and the right support, young African girls can thrive in STEM fields.

Here are five inspiring African women in STEM, along with insights into how they got to where they are today, and key lessons for you.

Dr. Adeola Olubamiji (Nigeria) – Additive Manufacturing & 3D Printing Expert

Dr. Adeola Olubamiji made history as the first Black person to earn a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada. She grew up in Ibadan, Nigeria, and studied Physics at Olabisi Onabanjo University before pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. Facing financial struggles, she worked in various manual jobs while pursuing her degree.

How She Got There:

  • Leveraged scholarships and research grants to fund her education.
  • Learned high-demand skills in 3D printing and additive manufacturing.
  • Used networking and LinkedIn to showcase her expertise and gain industry opportunities.

Lesson for You:

  • Seek out scholarships and research opportunities to support your education.
  • Gain hands-on experience in high-growth STEM fields.
  • Build a strong professional network through platforms like LinkedIn.

 

Dr. Rose Leke (Cameroon) – Immunologist & Malaria Researcher

Dr. Rose Leke is a globally recognized scientist known for her work in malaria research and immunology. She has been instrumental in shaping health policies in Africa, serving on multiple WHO advisory committees. Her early education was in Cameroon before she advanced her studies in medical sciences abroad.

How She Got There:

  • Studied microbiology and immunology, focusing on diseases affecting Africa.
  • Became a leader in public health through research and international collaborations.
  • Advocated for women’s inclusion in STEM and leadership positions.

Lesson for You:

  • Identify a pressing issue in Africa’s health sector and explore how STEM can solve it.
  • Engage in research that has a real-world impact.
  • Seek mentorship and advocacy opportunities to elevate your career.

Professor Tebello Nyokong (Lesotho/South Africa) – Nanotechnology Pioneer

Born in Lesotho, Prof. Tebello Nyokong is a world-renowned chemist known for her work in nanotechnology and cancer treatment. She overcame childhood poverty and societal expectations to become a professor at Rhodes University, South Africa. Today, she is one of Africa’s most celebrated female scientists.

How She Got There:

  • Excelled in chemistry, despite facing gender biases in the sciences.
  • Earned scholarships to study in Canada, where she gained expertise in nanotechnology.
  • Became an advocate for women in science and an award-winning researcher.

Lesson for You:

  • Take advantage of international education opportunities.
  • Push past societal norms and gender biases in STEM.
  • Use STEM to drive innovation in medicine and healthcare.

Dr. Juliana Rotich (Kenya) – Tech Innovator & Entrepreneur

Dr. Juliana Rotich is a Kenyan computer scientist and co-founder of Ushahidi, a revolutionary open-source platform used for crisis mapping worldwide. She grew up in Kenya, where she developed a passion for technology before studying computer science in the United States.

How She Got There:

  • Studied computer science and specialized in software development.
  • Co-founded Ushahidi, which transformed how crisis information is gathered and shared.
  • Advocated for tech access and innovation in Africa through various initiatives.

Lesson for You:

  • Develop problem-solving tech skills that can create social impact.
  • Use technology to solve African-specific challenges.
  • Join or build tech communities that foster innovation.

 

Dr. Quarraisha Abdool Karim (South Africa) – HIV/AIDS Researcher

Dr. Quarraisha Abdool Karim is a South African epidemiologist known for her groundbreaking research on HIV prevention, particularly among women. She has worked extensively in public health, helping to shape policies on disease prevention in Africa.

How She Got There:

  • Studied epidemiology and focused her research on women’s health.
  • Led pioneering studies on HIV prevention, influencing global health policies.
  • Became a leader in public health education and mentorship.

Lesson for You:

  • Focus on public health and medical research that impacts African communities.
  • Work with global health organizations to influence change.
  • Use research to drive policies that protect vulnerable populations.

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Conclusion: The Future of Women in STEM

These five African women prove that with determination, education, and support, girls in Africa can excel in STEM fields. Their stories highlight the importance of mentorship, scholarships, networking, and resilience.

What You Can Do in The Next 7 Days To Get You Started

  • Day 1: Research and apply for one STEM scholarship. Start here.
  • Day 2: Update your LinkedIn profile and connect with at least 3 women in STEM. See this post on how to optimize your LinkedIn. 
  • Day 3: Take an on-demand free STEM course. Check these
  • Day 4: Research an African STEM challenge and think of tech solutions.
  • Day 5: Follow and engage with an African STEM influencer on social media.
  • Day 6: Write down your STEM career goal and five steps to achieve it.
  • Day 7: Share your journey using the #SheSTEMs hashtag.

The future of Africa’s innovation lies in the hands of young women ready to do extraordinary things in STEM. Are you one of them?