US Consulate graduates a total 55 Nigerians from STEM Fields
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Another group of 10 Nigerians has graduated from TechWomen mentorship program sponsored by the US Consulate, bringing to 55 the total number of beneficiaries since the course was launched nine years ago.
Ten mentees aged 18-30 were paired with 10 women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for six weeks. They shadowed their mentors at leading tech and STEM-related firms in Lagos, including Intel and Microsoft.
The mentees also attended capacity building workshops with their peers.
The TechWomen Alumni Association of Nigeria (TWAAN) held the closing ceremony at the U.S. Consulate on Victoria Island, Lagos.
Consul General Claire Pierangelo reiterated at the ceremony that America is committed to supporting the next generation of women leaders in STEM by connecting them with networks and opportunities to realise their tech dreams.
The event celebrated the graduation of the participants, who in turn shared their experiences and highlighted how the course helped them refine their skills and boosted their confidence to advance in their careers.
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Expanding STEM fields networks
Pierangelo congratulated the young female STEM professionals on completing the mentorship program and highlighted the importance of expanding their networks in STEM fields.
She also encouraged them to pursue tech careers and ensure the sustainability of the mentor-mentee model in Nigeria.
“I am happy to see that our TechWomen Nigeria Alumni have taken steps to replicate their exchange experience by providing mentoring opportunities for young women in STEM in their local communities,” she said.
“The U.S. government is committed to advancing the rights and participation of women and girls in the STEM fields, by enabling them to reach their full potential in the tech industry.
“The TechWomen and TechGirls programs are perfect examples of this commitment.”
Pierangelo delivers remarks at the opening ceremony.
Benefits of mentoring
Country Account Executive for West Africa at Intel Corporation, Rita Amuchienwa, who served as a mentor, described the benefits of the mentor-mentee model initiated by TWAAN.
She stressed that “young women in tech can particularly benefit from mentoring as a means to build confidence, enhance skills, and set achievable career goals.”
Rofiat Korodo, a mentee, said her participation in the program has strengthened her capacity, expanded her professional networks, and exposed her to top female role models in her field.
“It has been an awesome experience. My mentor provided me insights into specific professional situations, negotiation tactics, opportunities and career path goals.
“I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this mentorship program,” she added.
About TechWomen
TechWomen is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
It strengthens participants’ professional capacity, increases mutual understanding between key professionals, and expands young women’s interest in STEM careers by exposing them to female role models.
TechWomen began in 2013.
Since then 45 Nigerian women in STEM have participated in the unique six-week mentorship program to increase their specialised proficiencies, connect with valuable mentors, and build a professional network of like-minded women.