Women in Climate Change Science – Yaulande Alotse Douanla

Africa’s climate future is being shaped by the brilliance and determination of African scientists who are redefining what is possible in this field. Among them is Yaulande, an atmospheric physicist whose work sits at the intersection of climate science, resilience, and sustainable development on the continent;

Hi Yaulande, it is wonderful to have you join us for this session today
Thank you for inviting me. It is my pleasure to share my story with the world.

Please introduce yourself to our readers
My name is Yaulande Alotse Douanla from Cameroon. I am currently based in Kigali, Rwanda, where I work as a postdoctoral fellow at the AIMS Research and Innovation Centre (AIMS RIC).

Please walk us through your journey into climate change science. Is this a field you knew existed in your early school days?
I am originally from Cameroon, born in the western region, where I completed my primary and secondary education. In my final year of high school, I failed to pass the baccalaureate exam on my first attempt. Not feeling ready to face people’s judgment, I decided to move to my uncle’s place in the northern part of Cameroon. Here, I managed to pass my baccalaureate the second time. I then pursued my undergraduate studies at the University of Douala, Cameroon, where I completed my first year of Master’s studies.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t selected to continue into the second year of my Master’s program, despite being one of the top students. This was a huge disappointment! It seemed like a betrayal since I had given my best effort to earn a place in the program. The following year, I applied to the University of Yaoundé I and was selected to continue my Master’s studies there. I eventually completed my Master’s degree. Despite these challenges, my curiosity and ambition kept pushing me forward, and I set my sights on pursuing a PhD. The only catch was if I could secure funding for it.

During my search for funding opportunities, I decided to explore my passion for fashion. I enrolled in a fashion design school, where I earned a Professional Qualification Diploma in fashion design and pattern making after one year. A new chapter later opened when I received funding from DAAD to pursue my PhD. This was at the Institute of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin. Four years later, I successfully defended my PhD thesis in Atmospheric Physics.

My postdoctoral journey began with two years as a research assistant at AIMS Senegal. I am working at AIMS RIC, focusing on climate change challenges in East Africa. As you know, the world is going through a critical period marked by the intensifying impacts of climate change. Its consequences are felt across many sectors, particularly agriculture. In East Africa, as in most African countries, agriculture remains the backbone of the economy and the foundation of food security. It is therefore essential to act early, before the damage becomes irreversible.

This is precisely the vision behind the project I am working on. It aims to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses two urgent issues: droughts and heatwaves, while also helping to build the next generation of local talent. These young scientists will ultimately be equipped to independently conduct research, manage risks, and develop mitigation and adaptation strategies to face long-term climate challenges. Our goal is to investigate the physical processes that lead to drought in East Africa: understanding the atmospheric mechanisms, physical conditions, and climatic drivers that contribute to its occurrence. Strengthening this knowledge will improve prediction and forecasting methods tailored to the region.

What challenges have you faced along the way in your climate change science career?
The biggest challenges I have faced have always been finding the strength, patience, and motivation to rise up after failure, especially when everything seems lost. For example, after my first Master’s year, when I wasn’t selected to continue into the second year, many of my peers simply accepted the outcome. However, after processing my disappointment, I decided to apply to another university, where I succeeded.

Another challenge came when the opportunity for a PhD didn’t materialize immediately. I managed to cope by engaging in what I love most: fashion design.

A recurring challenge I encountered was the societal judgment that women shouldn’t pursue lengthy studies, especially in scientific fields. Some people even believed that pursuing such an education would make it difficult for me to find a husband, as they thought men wouldn’t be interested in women with such high academic standing.

These challenges mirror the experiences of so many African women whose stories we have documented. They inspire us to work even harder toward being part of transformative solutions

How are you inspired to move forward when faced with challenging situations?
During difficult times, my focus has always remained on the value I could bring to my community and the impact I could have as the eldest in my family. I strongly think about the example I could set for young girls. Nothing comes easily, but with perseverance, discipline, and conviction, it is possible to open doors and create meaningful change.

Let us talk about some of your most prestigious moments during your career journey in climate change science
My greatest achievements are not just the academic milestones I’ve reached, but also the strength, courage, and patience I have developed in overcoming obstacles, all thanks to God’s grace. Along the way, I have also become a source of inspiration and motivation for others.

In terms of scientific recognition, one of my first major achievements was receiving a DAAD scholarship for my PhD. Later, I was honored with awards for best papers at conferences. These moments of recognition have been truly fulfilling.

How can we describe Yaulande outside of the climate change science walls?
Outside of work, I am simply myself. I am a wife, a mother, a fashion designer, and someone who is deeply involved in social causes. Balancing my personal life and passions is important to me.

What’s your favorite quote?
“Always give your best, and do it in the most beautiful way” ~ Mary Kay Ash.

What are your words of encouragement for a young African girl who is passionate about climate change science?
To young girls I would say: define your goals clearly and never believe that STEM fields are only for men. There is no male brain or female brain; we all have the same capacity to succeed if we commit ourselves. And when facing societal judgment, don’t give up. Remind yourself that with good organization, you can have a successful career in STEM and still be a well-rounded woman.

Thank you, Yaulande, for sharing your STEM journey with us and teaching us about climate change science. We wish you all the best in your career endeavours.