Every year on 11 February, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science highlights the vital role of women and girls in scientific and technological advancements. It celebrates achievements, addresses barriers, and promotes gender equality in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. At the same time, it draws attention to the persistent challenges female researchers, students, and professionals face, such as discrimination, stereotypes, and limited access to education and resources, that make careers in science more challenging.
However, projects like INCiTiS-FOOD are working to change this narrative by empowering vulnerable groups, like youth and women. Through its Living Labs and multi-actor approach, the project fosters inclusivity and diversity. Training and collaboration, as a core part of INCiTiS-FOOD, equip women with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable food systems in their communities. By promoting gender equality in scientific research, technological development, and entrepreneurship in sustainable agriculture, INCiTiS-FOOD ensures that women have a voice in shaping resilient food systems.
Women’s Perspective: Motivation for Pursuing a Career in Science
In the first part of this blog post, we feature insights from four accomplished women who are an important part of our project: Hikimot Babalola, Co-Ethics Manager from Aglobe Development Center; Kelly Neh Ngepopi, Living Lab Manager II from Bamenda University of Science and Technology; Maja Radišić, Head of Operations at Foodscale Hub and em. Prof. Ranka Junge from ZHAW School of Life Sciences and Facility Management.
Each of them has built a career in science and technology, driven by curiosity, resilience, and a shared commitment to innovation. But what keeps them motivated in their work? For Hikimot, it is the ability to solve real-world problems through research and innovation. Kelly finds fulfilment in the hands-on aspects, such as managing systems and building the capacity of stakeholders. Maja is inspired by the challenge of turning scientific discoveries into practical innovations that benefit society. Meanwhile, Ranka enjoys the international dimension of her work, from networking and travel to shaping new ideas through proposal writing.
Different Paths to a Career in Science
We asked all four women to reflect on what initially drew them to their careers. Their answers reflected diverse paths shaped by different experiences.
Hikimot was drawn by a passion for problem-solving, sustainability, and education. For Kelly, the journey was deeply personal. Growing up in a big household of 11 she experienced financial hardship firsthand and because of that her summers were spent working on farms. This experience instilled in her a determination to improve food systems, leading her to study agriculture and specialise in advanced farming technologies such as aquaponics, hydroponics, and recirculating aquaculture systems. Over the years, she has seen how these innovations can transform food security in resource-constrained communities like her home country, Cameroon.
Maja was inspired by the interplay between technology and impact – how scientific discoveries can drive social progress when effectively implemented. As for Ranka, it was curiosity and the desire to see progress that motivated her to pursue a career in science.
Overcoming Challenges
Looking back on their careers, all four women acknowledged that being female came with its own set of challenges. From facing bias based on appearance to having their voices disregarded in professional settings, they encountered obstacles that their male counterparts did not. Yet, their message to other women in science is one of resilience: let your work speak for itself.
They emphasised that while challenges are inevitable, perseverance and confidence can help break barriers. Moreover, they reflected on the challenge of working under difficult bosses and encouraged women to seek out better leadership – or, better yet, to become the boss themselves.
Advice for Future Scientists
At the end of the interview, all four women were asked to reflect on their journeys and share advice with their younger selves. Their words were both personal and inspiring.
Hikimot’s message is clear: “Stay true to your values and never let anyone make you feel less because of how you dress or what you believe. Your intelligence, hard work, and faith will open doors for you.”
Kelly encourages persistence: “No matter how hard life gets, never give up on your dreams. If your effort doesn’t seem to be making a change, push harder until it does.”
Maja’s advice is clear and empowering: “Stay determined, trust yourself, and don’t let setbacks define you. Every challenge is a lesson that brings you closer to success.”
Ranka reminds us that life is full of possibilities: “Try different things, and then decide what’s right for you. No decision is final—you can always change your mind. You can be everything: a mother, a scientist, a dancer.”
Their reflections highlight the resilience and determination that drive women in science. Through their work, they are not only pushing the boundaries of their fields but also inspiring future generations to follow their own paths with confidence.
Women in Science: Motivation Behind Their Journeys
Moving on to the second section of our blog post, we highlight insights from four other distinguished professionals who have made significant contributions to science and technology. These women bring unique perspectives from different fields, further enriching our understanding of the challenges and opportunities for women in science.
We spoke with Gertrud Buchenrieder, Professor of Development Economics and Policy and Coordinator of the INCiTiS-FOOD project at Universität der Bundeswehr München; Nyiang Dorothy Bwinfon, a Student Researcher from Bamenda University of Science and Technology; Grace Ngare, a Gender Professor at Kenyatta University; and Olivera Stojilovic Trivunic, Head of Ecosystem Development at Foodscale Hub.
Gertrud values the freedom to choose her research topics, enabling her to pursue meaningful and impactful work. For Nyiang, the constant opportunity to learn and evolve as a professional is the most rewarding part of her work. In the fast-moving world of technology, she finds excitement in staying up to date with new trends, acquiring new skills, and adapting to the changing landscape. Grace finds deep fulfilment in research, which allows her to explore and contribute to knowledge on gender issues, a field she is passionate about.
For Olivera, bridging the gap between science and stakeholders is especially fulfilling. She enjoys finding innovative ways to break down complex topics into simple and understandable terms, making science more accessible to different audiences. In new endeavours working with Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) can enhance her understanding of environmental impacts and externalities, ultimately promoting better decision-making and positive change.
Personal Experiences and Purpose: Diverse Paths into Science
The path to a scientific career for the women working on our project is shaped by personal experiences and a sense of purpose. For example, Gertrud found her inspiration in meeting people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. The global reach of her work and its impact on different communities have been strong motivators throughout her career.
For Nyiang, agriculture has always been a key source of livelihood in Cameroon, and she recognises its importance in building a sustainable future. With increasing demand for natural and healthy food options, she sees her work not just as a means of earning a living but as a way to contribute to environmentally sustainable communities. Grace was motivated by a passion for equality, which led her to research and advocate for gender inclusivity in science and society. Olivera was driven by a deep love for nature and a passion for innovation. The intersection of sustainability and scientific advancement continues to inspire her work.
Navigating Challenges with Mentorship and Community
Like the women in the first section of this blog post, these four professionals have encountered challenges in their careers due to gender biases. However, they emphasise that professional dedication and strong mentorship are key to breaking these barriers. By fostering a supportive network between junior and senior women scientists change can be achieved. Having a strong support system and finding a mentor is crucial to success, providing guidance and encouragement throughout one’s career.
Guidance for the Future: Lessons from Women in Science
As the conversation came to a close, we asked the four professionals to reflect on their journeys and share a message with their younger selves. Their words offer guidance, encouragement, and a reminder that perseverance leads to growth.
Gertrud shares practical career advice: “Prepare for meetings to be ahead of others and lead the discussion. Don’t be too shy, but don’t bluff either. Aim for high-impact papers and stay focused in your research to be seen as an expert. Try to publish one article with an internationally recognized expert early in your career—write the article, share it, and invite them as a co-author. It will pay off.”
Nyiang offers encouragement: “Be patient, study hard, focus on your dreams, and always take advice from those ahead of you in science.”
Grace keeps it simple: “Keep moving forward.”
Olivera emphasises resilience: “Practice, even if you’re not comfortable with a skill. Take chances and keep doing it. After a while, you’ll get comfortable with not knowing—and that’s when growth and confidence come into play.”
Moving Forward
The reflections from these eight women, across both parts of this blog post, highlight the perseverance, dedication, and passion that drive women in science. Their experiences illustrate both the progress made and the work still to be done to ensure that more women can thrive in STEM fields. By sharing their stories, they inspire the next generation to pursue their ambitions with confidence and determination. Follow our Newsroom to stay updated and do not miss the second part of the blog post featuring inspiring women for the INCiTiS-FOOD project that is coming soon!
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