What is your educational background?

I studied Chemical Engineering at the British University in Egypt. I also majored in Environmental Engineering during my undergraduate studies. I have an MSc in Renewable Energy also from the British University in Egypt. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Carbon Capture and Storage at the University of Edinburgh.

What is your current occupation?

I look at technological solutions to climate change in my PhD, especially Negative Emission Technologies (processes that remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere). I am building and developing a Direct Air Capture absorber in the lab.

I am involved in public outreach and can be caught at any time talking about climate change and its solutions to anyone and everyone. I also tutor undergraduate engineering courses and am working on becoming a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

What or who got you into STEM?

I’ve always enjoyed the STEM subjects at school. I was always representing my school at science fairs, maths challenges, and design competitions and have a few awards to show for it. Growing up in Zambia, I was always aware of climate change and know first-hand its effects on people’s lives. 

I wanted to study something that could help me counter climate change and/or plastic pollution through my love for science. Engineering felt like a natural choice. My parents and teachers have always been very supportive. In fact, my parents always stood up for me. They wouldn’t stand for any of the stereotypes of what a girl should/shouldn’t be.

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

I would say rudeness, some people are just plain mean. I can’t tell though if it is because I am African, Arab, Muslim, or a woman. There are plenty of untrue stereotypes that people have tried to apply to me and it always adds unnecessary effort to disprove the stereotype before proving myself as an engineer. I think we have an unfair starting point.

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

My background made me who I am and it is the reason I am so passionate about working on climate change solutions. I have a deep appreciation and connection with Mother Nature. I believe that having a mixed cultural background has opened my mind to other people and made more accepting of others. I always try to understand where someone is coming from which is something that I find beneficial in the climate sphere. My parents deserve 100% of the credit.

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

Visibility! African scholars who have a platform must use them. Also, allyship, mentorship and support. I think every generation has a responsibility towards the next generation. We have to be the role models and mentors that we didn’t have.