What is your educational background?
I have a first degree in Agricultural Science from the Kwame Nkrumah university of Science and Technology, Kumasi -Ghana, and recently completed my second – degree in Sustainability at the University of Sydney.
What is your current occupation?
Professionally, I work as Agricultural Officer (Public extension) at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s Extension department in Ghana, contributing mainly to developing policies geared towards improving food security. I am also much involved in training of farmers on best agricultural practices that contribute to increasing yield and conform to climate smart agriculture.
What or who got you into STEM?
What got me into STEM was my curiosity from my childhood. I always wanted to know why or what or where about a thing. Also through books and watching documentaries, I developed an interest in the STEM field and I must say it opened my mind to a world beyond my borders
What is the biggest challenge/barrier you have faced as an African in STEM?
The biggest challenge for me is stereotypes, limited views and opportunities surrounding Africans in STEM. In view of that, I lost some opportunities partly due to this.
How do you think your background/upbringing has been beneficial in your journey/career?
It has taught me to be resilient and still doing so. It also pushed me to try to achieve greater heights and face challenges that come my way.
How do you think we can start to change the narrative surrounding African contributions
to global STEM research & careers?
In my opinion, opening up the conversations around Africans in STEM up, promoting works done in STEM fields and also creating opportunities for the younger generations to take more in interest in STEM. I also think those of us who are in the STEM field should begin to shed more light on our work through various platforms. Visibility STEM is one platform to use.
What advice would you like to give to young, aspiring Africans in STEM?
You are the answer. Close your mind to the challenges, focus on all the growing possibilities and most importantly “grab” the opportunities and make the very best of it.
Do you have any projects you’re working on that you would like us to highlight?
I am currently working on a research project with the University of Sydney on Open Analysis to Address Slavery in Supply Chains. The project in general is to ensure that both producers and consumers are able to trace and address modern slavery acts within their supply chain
