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I got to know Ohemaa through LinkedIn, after her foundation called Girls in Science and Technology – GIST, based in Takoradi, Ghana, posted something that appeared on my timeline. Ohemaa is doing an amazing job with girls in Ghana. Here is our interview about her STEM journey:
Hi Ohemaa, thank you or joining us today!
Hi Winnie! It is my pleasure.
Tell us your full name please
My name is Ohemaa Adjei Andoh
What do you do currently?
I am the Founder of Girls in Science and Technology (GIST), a foundation that advocates for women in STEM careers and STEM Education. The aim is to show representation of ladies in STEM careers, to provide mentorships, trainings and opportunities. To help groom well rounded women in STEM.
I am also the proprietress of PM STEAM Academy, an Academy that focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics to harness children’s creativity, teamwork, communication and empower them to take on STEM. This is also to encourage teamwork between boys and girls at an early age.
Kindly walk us through a summary of your STEM journey
I was born and raised in Accra, Ghana. I schooled at Achimota School from the Basic Level to Senior High school where I studied General Science. I went on to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology to study BSc. Geologist Engineering. I have always loved taking on leadership roles to help impact others. I was the Women in Engineering President during my time in the University.
Raised by my lovely mother and big sister. I have always had a great support system from childhood and they always encouraged me.
What is your biggest inspiration in life?
What inspires me is the idea that we have the power to make things better for generations after us, to create a blue print worth following.
What have been some of your prestigious achievements?
My organization GIST won the Ghana Outstanding Women Social Community at Ghana Outstanding Women Awards (GOWA 2020). I was nominated for the Outstanding Woman in Innovation at the same award in 2020
What do you enjoy doing outside work?
I love spending with my husband and kids. I love that so so much!
What is your favourite quote?
“Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” ~ Marianne Williamson
Any final advice to young girls in STEM?
Make sure you shine your light wherever you find yourself. You never know who needs your light to guide their path.
Thank you, Ohemaa. It was an honour to feature your story.