Shaping Quantitative Risk Management Through Actuarial Science – Sandra Addai-Henne

Meet Sandra Addai-Henne, a Lecturer in Actuarial Science, who specializes in applying data-driven methods to train future professionals and advance evidence-based approaches to managing risk. Her work strengthens quantitative risk management and decision-making:

Hi Sandra, it is nice to meet you. We are excited to learn about your journey in Actuarial Science
Thank you for this opportunity to shine a light on women in my field. I truly appreciate you providing the visibility and voice needed to encourage more females to pursue their goals.

Please give us a brief introduction about yourself
My name is Sandra Addai-Henne. I am Ghanaian, and I currently reside in Kumasi, Ghana.

I am a Lecturer at the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi. My work specializes in actuarial science and data analytics with a focus on quantitative risk management.

I apply my actuarial science skills when helping pension and insurance systems to better understand and manage financial risks, including those related to longevity and uncertainty. In a way, I support informed decision-making and contribute to building systems that are resilient, fair, and sustainable over time, through quantitative models and real-world data.

Walk us through your journey into Actuarial Science; is this something you have always wanted to pursue?
I have loved numbers and patterns from a very young age. Growing up, I was naturally curious about how things work, why events happen the way they do, and how we can make sense of the future by looking at the now and yesterday. Also, I enjoyed learning, observing, and asking questions.

When I was a teenager, I often found comfort in quiet reflection, and I gravitated toward subjects that required focus, patience, and deep thinking. Mathematics became more than just a school subject for me. It challenged me, sharpened my reasoning, and taught me how to stay calm and persistent while solving complex problems.

Over time, I began to understand that mathematics is not only about solving equations, but also about solving real-life problems. I realized that behind many major decisions, whether in finance, business, insurance, health, or public policy, there is uncertainty. And that uncertainty can be analysed, modelled, and managed using mathematics, statistics, and actuarial tools. That understanding shaped the direction of my academic and professional life.

I pursued Actuarial Science because it combines mathematical thinking with real-world impact. I completed my BSc in Actuarial Science at KNUST, and later had the opportunity to broaden my experience internationally by pursuing my MSc in Actuarial Science at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. After that, I returned to Ghana to continue my work and complete my PhD in Actuarial Science at KNUST.

While the journey has been deeply rewarding, it has not been an easy one. It required discipline, sacrifice, and resilience, especially during moments of uncertainty, pressure, and high expectations. However, each stage strengthened my confidence and clarified my purpose. I learned that growth often demands consistency and that excellence is built step by step.

Today, what keeps me grounded is the awareness that my work is not only about calculations but about people. It is about using evidence to support better decisions, designing systems that protect lives and livelihoods, and helping communities and institutions prepare for risk rather than simply react to it.

My journey has also reinforced my belief that women belong in STEM, not as visitors, but as leaders shaping the future. And I hope my story encourages young girls to dream boldly, stay disciplined, and never underestimate what they can achieve.

Let us talk about some of the challenges you have faced along the way in your Actuarial Science Journey
The journey has come with several challenges, the first being the constant demand for excellence in a field that is highly technical and competitive. Actuarial science requires not only intelligence but also endurance, long hours of studying, continuous practice, and the ability to stay consistent even when progress feels slow. There were moments where the workload was intense and mentally exhausting, and I had to develop strong discipline to keep moving forward.

Another challenge was balancing personal expectations with professional growth. At different stages, I had to make sacrifices, time, comfort, and sometimes even rest to remain focused on my goals.

Lastly, learning to confidently express myself in spaces that often reward loudness and visibility. I have always been comfortable doing the work, reading, analysing, solving problems, but speaking up in large rooms, sharing my ideas quickly, or networking extensively did not come naturally to me. However, I still had to push myself to become more visible, presenting my work, contributing to discussions, and stepping into leadership roles. That growth was not instant, but it was intentional. I learned that confidence is not always loud; sometimes it is quiet, consistent, and backed by preparation.

How have you been able to navigate these challenges and move forward in your career?
I am inspired by purpose and progress. Each stage of my journey reminded me that what I am doing matters, not only for my personal growth, but for the wider impact it can have. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to decision-making and policy through actuarial science, research, and data analytics, especially in areas where risk affects livelihoods.

I am also inspired by growth itself, the satisfaction of learning, improving, and overcoming challenges.

And I draw a lot of inspiration from the belief that representation matters. If my journey can encourage even one young girl to take mathematics seriously and pursue STEM confidently, then it becomes bigger than me, and that is enough motivation to keep moving forward.

Tell us about some of the most prestigious and rewarding moments in your actuarial science career

One of my earliest and most memorable milestones was during my undergraduate years. I was one of the students from Actuarial Science-KNUST who won the Inter-Tertiary Institutions Mathematics Competition in 2010, organized by the Ghana Mathematical Society in conjunction with Dream Weavers Consult (The Mathlete). That achievement was significant to me because it validated my passion for numbers and problem-solving.

I also take pride in mentorship, particularly supporting young women and encouraging them to stay committed to STEM fields. Many talented girls doubt themselves early in their careers, and mentorship becomes a powerful tool for confidence-building and guidance. In addition to this, I am intentional about representing women in actuarial science research and teaching, where women are still underrepresented.

Another special moment of recognition for me was my participation in the International Women’s Day 2022 public discussion on “Breaking the Bias,” held at KNUST. Being part of that conversation was meaningful because it aligned with my personal values, promoting equity, visibility, and opportunities for women, while encouraging more girls to believe in their abilities and pursue STEM without limitations.

Lastly, the most significant milestone in my journey was becoming the first Ghanaian female to earn a PhD in Actuarial Science from a Ghanaian university. This achievement is very personal to me because it represents years of discipline and resilience, and it also highlights the importance of visibility for women who want to pursue a higher degree in actuarial science. I believe many more girls can go further.

Who is Sandra outside of the Actuarial Science spaces?
Outside of work, I enjoy calm, reflective spaces that help me stay grounded and focused. I also enjoy engaging in activities that promote learning, self-development, and community. Supporting others is something I care deeply about, especially young women, through encouragement and mentorship. I also try to live in a way that reflects gratitude, humility, and respect for all.

What is your favorite quote?
“Just try your best. If you fail, cry if you must, then get up and push yourself to do it again and again” ~ Anonymous.

What are your words of encouragement for a young girl interested in Actuarial Science?
To every young girl interested in mathematics, statistics, actuarial science, or any STEM field: you belong here. Do not let anyone make you feel like science and numbers are only for certain people. Your curiosity is a gift, and your intelligence is enough to take you far. Start by believing in yourself and building strong foundations.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, or struggle sometimes. Struggle does not mean you are not good; it simply means you are learning something meaningful. Also, remember that confidence is built with time and consistency. Keep trying, keep practising, and keep improving.

Surround yourself with people who encourage you, look for mentors, and never be ashamed of your ambition.

Most importantly, dream boldly. The world needs more women not just to participate, but to lead, innovate, and make decisions that shape the future. Your voice, your ideas, and your excellence matter.

Thank you so much, Sandra, for teaching us about Actuarial Science and walking us through your journey. Congratulations on all your achievements. We wish you the very best in the future.