Overcoming Challenges as a Young Woman in STEM — Insights from Temitayo Adelowo
Life’s road is never smooth, and even when it seems that way, you’ll face obstacles. Develop an unrelenting spirit and view challenges as opportunities.
The SWIS Africa team was inspired by the great things Temitayo is doing in the STEM space. We arranged an interview with her to learn more about her passion and encourage other women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
SWIS Africa: Kindly give us a brief autobiography of yourself?
Temitayo: I am Adelowo Temitayo Florence, the 2nd of three children of my parents. I studied Mechanical Engineering (ND, HND) at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (3.56/4.0) and The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro (3.87/4.00) where I graduated as the overall best student school in Engineering for the 2019/2020 academic year. I am a graphic designer using software like Corel Draw, AutoCAD, Solidworks, Excel, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. Also, I tutor students in sciences and prepare them for WAEC and NECO exams. Futhermore, I founded The Female Gender (TfeG) Initiative and florrytem, where I reach out to young females in need, also rendering my voice to educate teens and youths on how to be distinct and successful in their career.
SWIS Africa: What inspired your interest in STEM?
Temitayo Adelowo: My interest in mechanical engineering started at a young age. I was always passionate about fixing things around the house, from household items to generators. Although I occasionally broke things, I was fascinated by the process. After secondary school, I worked and studied graphic design and printing, using it to support myself and my family. My journey into STEM wasn’t easy, but my passion motivated me.
SWIS Africa: It’s clear you faced numerous challenges on your journey. Could you share more about the difficulties you encountered and how you managed to overcome them?
Temitayo Adelowo: Absolutely. My journey was filled with challenges. My parents couldn’t afford to pay my school fees, so I had to work for my teachers and do farm work in secondary school to cover the costs. When I gained admission to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, I couldn’t attend because of financial constraints. Also, my father withdrew all my savings from my bank account, and I had to start working again to survive.
I applied to Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in Abeokuta for my ND and became the first female mechanical engineering student with distinctions throughout my academic program. I continued working and learning AutoCAD design. After three years, I went for my HND at The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, juggling work and school. I faced challenges with direct entry admissions into universities but persevered. Despite these hardships, I graduated as the overall best student in the entire School of Engineering.
SWIS Africa: Your journey is incredibly inspiring. What advice would you like to give to young women who are considering studying or pursuing a career in STEM?
Temitayo Adelowo: My advice is simple: never give up. Life’s road is never smooth, and even when it seems that way, you’ll face obstacles. Develop an unrelenting spirit and view challenges as opportunities. If you truly desire something, don’t give up until you achieve it. Giving up means your initial desire was never strong enough. Life is beyond depending on others; it’s about taking gradual steps toward your goals. Even if you face financial constraints or lack guidance, stay focused and make gradual progress. There’s no excuse for not pursuing your dreams or education. Be determined and keep working towards your aspirations.
SWIS Africa: Thank you so much for sharing your incredible journey and words of wisdom with us, Temitayo.
Temitayo Adelowo: You’re welcome. It’s been a pleasure sharing my story.
Linkedin: Temitayo Adelowo
SWIS Africa is an initiative focused on celebrating and shaping women in STEM in Africa. You can learn more about us by clicking this link.
