Anne Chisa is a PhD student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, a science communicator and host of The Root of the Science Podcasts. The podcasts aim to amplify the voices of Africans in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields across the globe. “I want to shift the stereotypes that scientists are white old men in lab coats,” she says.
Through her podcasts, Chisa showcases the diversity in the field and challenges preconceptions about STEM careers. The podcasts give African scientists the opportunity to share the work they are doing, in their own voices, and to inspire people to pursue careers in STEM. She believes that sharing inspiring stories of how scientists have overcome difficulties will motivate those already in the field.
Her advice to her younger self is to believe in the validity of your vision, because “you are worthy and capable of being even greater than you imagine”.
My dream of creating a premier platform of Africans in STEM will inspire the next generation of young people to get into STEM fields.