In an era where innovation and technology are shaping the future, the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cannot be overstated. Yet, for many young women across Africa, the path to pursuing STEM careers has been riddled with barriers, from limited opportunities to societal norms that have discouraged them from entering these fields. One woman, Kodou Alieu Jeng, has been at the forefront of changing this narrative, both in The Gambia and across the continent. Through her tireless efforts, Kodou has become a beacon of hope for young girls aspiring to break into the world of STEM.
Kodou Alieu Jeng is the CEO and Founder of Women in STEM Gambia (WiSTEM Gambia) and WiSTEM Africa, two platforms designed to introduce and empower young girls to embrace STEM, while fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive in these fields. Her visionary leadership and dedication have not only inspired a new generation of women but also challenged the traditional stereotypes that have long kept African women away from technology and innovation.
Empowering Girls through STEM Education
With a deep passion for education and technology, Kodou launched Women in STEM Gambia with a singular goal: to break the barriers young girls face in accessing quality STEM education and opportunities. Through mentorship programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives, WiSTEM Gambia has become a transformative force, helping girls in The Gambia gain the skills, confidence, and resources they need to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Kodou’s work extends far beyond introducing girls to the basics of science and technology. She encourages young women to dream big, to see themselves as leaders, innovators, and problem solvers who can contribute to solving global challenges. Through WiSTEM Africa, she has expanded her efforts to a continental level, fostering collaborations across African countries and creating networks where women in STEM can support one another and share knowledge.
Championing excellence: The STEM Woman of the Year Award
Kodou Alieu Jeng’s influence and impact were recently recognized on a grand stage. At the 9th Africa Digital Women Award 2024, held in Nairobi, Kenya, she was honored with the STEM Woman of the Year Award. This prestigious award, which celebrates excellence in digital innovation, was a testament to Kodou’s outstanding contributions in the field of STEM education and her unwavering commitment to empowering young African women. The Africa Digital Women Award is a platform that recognizes and celebrates women who are leading the charge in digital transformation across the continent, and Kodou’s leadership in STEM education perfectly exemplifies this.
Her recognition at such a significant event shines a spotlight on the importance of encouraging women to engage in digital and technological spaces. Kodou’s win was not just a personal achievement, but a victory for all women in STEM across Africa, as it symbolized the growing recognition of the critical role women play in driving innovation and development.
The ripple effect of Kodou’s work
Kodou’s passion for STEM education has created a ripple effect, inspiring girls and women from all walks of life to step into a world that was once considered inaccessible. Under her leadership, WiSTEM Gambia has seen a surge in participation, with more young girls enrolling in STEM programs, participating in coding camps, and joining STEM clubs in schools. Many of these girls, once hesitant about their place in the world of science and technology, are now pursuing higher education in STEM fields, all thanks to Kodou’s mentorship and guidance.
Through WiSTEM Africa, Kodou is ensuring that this movement reaches beyond The Gambia, touching the lives of young girls in neighboring countries. By creating a network of women in STEM across the continent, she is paving the way for greater collaboration, innovation, and shared success stories.
Inspiring future leaders
Kodou’s work is about more than just teaching girls how to code or introducing them to science experiments; it’s about inspiring the next generation of leaders. By exposing young girls to STEM, she is not only equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the modern world but also giving them the confidence to lead and innovate. Her focus on leadership development, coupled with her advocacy for gender equity in STEM, has made her a role model for aspiring young women everywhere.
Looking ahead
The recognition of Kodou Alieu Jeng at the Africa Digital Women Award 2024 is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her contributions to STEM education and her tireless efforts in empowering women across Africa. As she continues to lead WiSTEM Gambia and WiSTEM Africa, her vision remains clear: to build a world where every girl and woman, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to thrive in STEM.
Her journey is a reminder that one person’s passion and dedication can change the lives of many. Kodou has proven that when women are given the tools, knowledge, and support to succeed, they can transform not just their own futures, but the future of their communities and their continent.
Kodou Alieu Jeng is more than just a leader; she is a catalyst for change, a trailblazer who has opened doors for countless young girls to pursue their dreams in STEM. As her work continues to grow and inspire, the future of STEM in Africa looks brighter than ever.
In recognizing Kodou, we celebrate not just her personal achievements but the collective progress of women in STEM across Africa. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion, dedication, and a commitment to empowering others, real change is possible.
