A Nigerian Data Scientist breaks down cultural stereotypes around girls in STEM
Amanda Obidike, a certified professional in STEM by the Open University, United Kingdom and Executive Director of STEMi Makers Africa, has created sustainable and implementable projects in 78 underserved communities across 17 Sub-Saharan countries by preparing the next generation of Africans with STEM lucrative opportunities in becoming experienced for Africa’s workforce.
You made a career shift from Administration to Data Science. Why did you choose DS and was this an easy decision for you? Did you encounter any difficulties learning?
I chose Data Science because it is one of the future-focused skills the companies are using today. After graduating from University, it was difficult to get a meaningful job. The job market required technical competence and skills. I got a job in a FMCG company, but in a year I got tired and frustrated. I wanted more out of life than helping to coordinate accounts.
“I wanted more out of life than helping to coordinate accounts.”
Soon I realized that although Nigeria had a great job market, supply was almost exclusive to professionals in technology and expatriates. I then began to research and look out for opportunities and training to upskill my resume and seek after jobs in Data Science.
I finally got an opportunity to be trained by IBM in Business Intelligence/Analytics after 8 months of research. It was not an easy decision to make because I had to quit my job and survive on the little savings I had left. But courage and determination kept my eyes on the prize.
I encountered difficulties in learning because everything was all new to me and it was a crash training of 2 intensive weeks. Upon completion, I continued on my own, delving more into research and learning through video materials. But most importantly, I practiced by offering pro-bono consulting to small businesses. This helped a great deal as I earned a Mastery Award in IBM BI examination.
Can you recall a situation where you felt frustrated or challenged and how you dealt with it?
Being in a project or job that doesn’t make you happy, satisfied or fulfilled can be challenging. You have to deal with mental and emotional imbalance and this affects your work-life balance, relationship with people and productivity. It was very challenging understanding the job market after graduation. I had to deal with the recruitment process: having several interviews, sending job applications, travelling, attending job seminars, etc. Thinking about this makes me laugh now.
It got to a time when I became sad about the existing challenges in accessing the job market, the government policies, the institutions, etc. However, I am thankful for my family and their support: They kept encouraging me to keep trying, but to try differently and above all, to love myself. When you practice self-love, you are confident and positive about your worth. This made me start a new day with positive vibes and I was able to pull through the fear and frustration.
What do you want to say to girls who want to go into STEM fields but feel discouraged by the limitations of educational institutions and government’s policies (Ex: No budget for scientific research, saturated job market…)?
Two words and that is: DO IT.
The limitations, stereotyping and fear will be there, but you need to take that step. STEM has a growing community and I came across women who are willing to help young girls by offering career support, guidance, advice, resources, tools and words of encouragement. Please try to reach out to young women you admire in an existing role you love to be in. Ask them questions. Attend events in either of the STEM fields and connect with other professionals. Also, research and improve your skills. This is really important. When you research and build yourself knowledge and capacity, you get psychologically prepared for that height you want to reach. Otherwise, keep in mind the following:
Opportunity meets preparedness.
Be open to learning.
Be brave to take your baby steps.
You see an opportunity you love, please apply.
The stumbling blocks may always be there, but you need to be fearless and: Do it.
What’s your secret sauce for success?
I have a physical board and calendar that helps me map out what I have to do for the month. The board helps me to note: my next plans, if I successfully delivered a task and what I can improve. Aside from my physical board, I enlist on a daily basis: what I need to do, who I need to check up on and if there’s a deadline I need to meet. This helps a great deal in my productivity. While using e-calendars is great, I would advise you use a communication and planning tool that you understand better and that lets you comment on your daily deliverables.
Also, love and be true to yourself, be open to reflect on your day, as well as, ask yourself what you may have done better.As for my secret success, I would say that is Jesus Christ. Every step I made, every success I had and every day well spent happened through Him. It is through Him that I gain clarity, I win and I excel exceedingly. This is my personal belief and it has been tremendous.
If her journey inspires you, you can read more about Amanda’s numerous achievements on yunus and youth platform. Please feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn.
