We are excited to feature Foutse Yuehgoh, a computer scientist and AI researcher whose work bridges data science, machine learning, big data, and real-world impact. This article highlights her leadership in various tech initiatives and her role in championing women in STEM;
Hello Foutse, it is wonderful to speak with you today. You are welcome to Words That Count
I am happy to share my journey. Thank you for inviting me.
Briefly introduce yourself to our audience
My name is Foutse Yuehgoh, originally from Cameroon, but staying in France. I currently work in the field of Data Science.
How did you join this world of data science?
Growing up, my parents had a very different dream for me. They hoped I would become a medical doctor. In school, I was good at mathematics, and I especially enjoyed discussing what I learned in class with my dad. He had a way of connecting abstract concepts to real-life applications, and that helped spark and grow my interest in the field. In secondary school, I also developed an interest in human biology. However, I didn’t enjoy the practical sessions, and that worried me, knowing how much my parents wanted me to pursue medicine. I even tried the medical entrance exams, but didn’t succeed. That marked a turning point; I realized becoming a doctor wasn’t my path.
I decided to study mathematics at university, partly because it was the subject I was most comfortable with. However, I had a growing passion for computer science, which was fueled by action-packed series like Nikita and 24
H
eures Chrono (with Jack Bauer), shows that sparked my curiosity about technology and intelligence work. When I arrived at university, the head of the mathematics department asked why I chose the program. I explained that my real interest was in computer science, but since the university didn’t offer a bachelor’s degree in it, I opted for mathematics instead. He advised me to minor in computer science so I could transition to it at the master’s level, and that’s exactly what I did.
During my undergraduate years, I didn’t limit myself to the curriculum. I had the opportunity to do internships where I explored computer science more deeply: building SMS applications and even creating a personal website for love matches, which was both fun and educational. My boss then, Fritz Ekwoge, was a great mentor and the first person who introduced me to the field of AI. He told me it was the future of tech and showed me fascinating things it could do, which further fueled my interest in computer science.
Later, a friend of mine, Ulrich, who knew of my interest in both mathematics and computer science, introduced me to the field of Big Data. The blend between the two disciplines immediately fascinated me. I was immediately fascinated by how it blended both disciplines. When I learned that the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) was offering a program in Big Data, I applied right away and was thrilled to be accepted.
I’ve been fortunate to have great friends, mentors, and role models who guided me at key points in my journey. One major question I’ve wrestled with is whether to pursue research or stay in industry. That debate is still ongoing, so I chose a career path that allows me to do both: working in a company where I can apply data science in practical ways while still engaging in research-oriented projects. This is also why I pursued a PhD through a joint collaboration with a company, and why I currently work as a data scientist in a company that values research, allowing me to continue contributing to both worlds.
What challenges have you faced while building your Data Science career?
Throughout my academic journey, I often found myself as part of a minority group. It was difficult to find peers or role models I could easily relate to because my fields, mathematics and computer science, are traditionally male-dominated.
Another major challenge I faced was transitioning from an Anglophone to a Francophone system of education. Even though I was bilingual and could speak and understand both English and French fluently, studying complex academic subjects in French was a completely different experience. It required me to adjust not just linguistically, but also mentally, to a different way of thinking and learning.
Changing institutions added another layer of difficulty. I had to work hard to catch up in areas where I was behind, especially when switching disciplines. Moving from a purely mathematics-focused background into computer science wasn’t straightforward either. I had to adapt to new ways of thinking, new tools, and different academic expectations.
However, navigating both educational systems, the Anglophone and Francophone, turned out to be a strength. It gave me a unique perspective and helped me appreciate the different philosophies and mindsets that exist in these two worlds. This adaptability and cross-cultural understanding continue to be valuable in my work and life today.
During these and other challenges, what inspires you to stay motivated?
I’ve been fortunate to have very supportive parents who deeply value education. They always believed that we could become whatever we wanted to be, and they gave us their full support to pursue our goals. That foundation made a huge difference. I also had brothers and sisters who pursued great studies and went far in their careers. So, I grew up knowing that success was possible. I wasn’t afraid to aim high.
Although most of my role models were male, that never made me doubt my potential. On the contrary, it strengthened my resolve. I hoped that one day, I could help make the same opportunities I’ve benefited from available to the next generation. That thought keeps me striving forward.
I’ve also been surrounded by hardworking friends who never gave up, even when facing serious challenges. Watching their resilience reminded me that giving up should never be an option.
There were moments when professors and classmates underestimated my abilities, especially in the French education system. While that was discouraging and frustrating, it also humbled me. I learned to stay grounded, to keep learning from others, and never to assume I knew more than anyone else. That openness to growth, no matter the circumstance, has been one of my greatest sources of strength.
Let us talk about some of your most prestigious moments along your Data Science career path
One of the most meaningful milestones in my academic journey came early during secondary school when I came out as the best student in my region in the Ordinary Level exams. It was my very first major win, and it made my parents incredibly proud. I still vividly remember how happy it made my father. That moment is especially dear to me because it was the only academic recognition my father personally witnessed before he passed. I carry that memory with deep gratitude and affection.
During my undergraduate studies, I consistently earned the Presidential Grant, which helped reimburse my university tuition fees each year. That support not only eased financial pressures but served as ongoing encouragement to keep pushing forward.
As I advanced in my academic career, I was fortunate to be awarded multiple prestigious scholarships. The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship enabled me to join AIMS, a transformative experience that helped shape my path into data science. I later received the Excellence Scholarship to pursue another master’s studies at the University of Paris-Saclay, one of France’s top universities. For my PhD, I was awarded the CIFRE industrial research grant, which allowed me to pursue research in collaboration with industry, aligning perfectly with my goal to bridge research and practical impact.
Beyond academics, I’ve been awarded several conference travel grants, which allowed me to engage with global research communities. These include support to attend conferences like: Deep Learning Indaba, Black in AI at NeurIPS, CVPR (Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition) Conference, and Women in Machine Learning (WiML) at NeurIPS. These events enriched my academic exposure and allowed me to build lasting networks with peers and mentors from across the globe.
I’ve also had the chance to contribute to collaborative projects that were recognized internationally. One memorable achievement was through the INNO Student Challenge organized by WWF, where our team, HydroAS, proposed an innovative solution using low-cost, solar-powered sensors to monitor bodies of water in Cameroon and Benin. We designed the system as an early warning platform for droughts and floods, helping communities and governments act in time. Our project ranked among the top, earning us €10,000 to launch the initiative.
In the research space, I’ve contributed to several impactful projects, including:
AfriMTE and AfriCOMET
: Empowering the COMET model to support under-resourced African languages.
IrokoBench
: A benchmarking project for African languages in the era of large language models. Outstanding Papers at NAACL
AfriMed-QA
: A Pan-African, multi-specialty medical question-answering benchmark.
The World Wide Recipe
: A community-centred framework for fine-grained data collection and regional bias analysis.
These collaborative works have been recognized at top-tier conferences, with some receiving Best Paper and Honourable Mention Awards, which were both humbling and inspiring.
Wow! We are happy to see you getting the recognition you deserve.
What do you enjoy doing outside of your primary role in Data Science?
Outside of work, I am deeply passionate about volunteering and sharing knowledge. My passion focuses on empowering others through education and community engagement. I have worked with Deep Learning Indaba, IndabaX Cameroon, and Women in Machine Learning and Data Science (WiMLDS). I’ve also volunteered in Black in AI and Women in Machine Learning (WiML), both at NeurIPS.
To broaden impact within my local community, I founded KmerAI, a grassroots initiative in Cameroon. Our work promotes collaboration and knowledge-sharing in AI. The goal is to connect and spotlight the work of fellow Cameroonians in AI, and to inspire and support the next generation of tech talent.
Beyond tech and community work, I love singing and dancing. I have recently developed a passion for creating music using AI, an exciting blend of creativity and technology. I share some of this work on my YouTube channel, where I explore music-making through a new lens. In my free time, I enjoy running, and I’m a big fan of tennis and ping pong.
What is your favorite quote?
Let love lead.”
This simple yet profound quote guides how I work, collaborate, and live. Whether in research, community building, or daily interactions, I believe that when love, genuine care, compassion, and intention lead the way, everything else aligns more naturally.
What’s your encouragement for a young African girl who is interested in Data Science?
To every young girl stepping into the world of STEM: You belong here.
There may be moments when the path feels uncertain, the room feels too quiet, or the challenge seems too big. Always remember that you are capable and unique, you are needed, and your perspective matters. The world needs your uniqueness, your curiosity, your ideas, your questions, and your voice.
Don’t be afraid to take up space. Ask questions, even the ones you’re scared might sound “too simple or odd.” That’s how discovery begins. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and when you don’t find them, be that person for yourself and others.
You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to keep going. And as you rise, don’t forget to look back and lift others with you.
Always, let love lead in your work, in your ambition, and in how you treat yourself and others.
Thank you, Foutse, for sharing your Data Science journey with us. It is wonderful to see African women move mountains in these spaces. We wish you the best and hope to learn more about your work in the future.
