I have been fascinated by science and technology since childhood, so choosing to study Computer Engineering at Ashesi after senior high school was a no-brainer. My first introduction to Ashesi was in 2014 when I joined the Ashesi Innovation Experience (AIX) Programme’s Robotics track. That experience cemented my desire to attend Ashesi University and pursue Computer Engineering. I was passionate about hardware and software, and this programme allowed me to explore both.
Ashesi was incredibly challenging, and the coursework was rigorous as expected from an institution that instills excellence in its students. However, my strong support system helped me navigate the challenges, allowing me to graduate.
In our first year, we were paired with mentors, and my mentor, the then dean of students, became a significant influence in my life. He guided me in time management and balancing academics with co-curricular activities. Even after I graduated, he remained my sounding board, playing a crucial role in founding my company. Ashesi provided abundant resources, and I took full advantage of them. I also had an incredible circle of friends and classmates who became my anchors. We studied together, pushed each other to excel, and celebrated our wins. I cannot overstate the importance of surrounding yourself with friends who inspire and challenge you to be the best version of yourself. These friendships have become lifelong connections.
After graduating, I enrolled in a Data Science programme, having been introduced to the field during an Internet of Things class in my final semester. I later earned my certifications and began working as a data scientist. In 2021, I co-founded Because She Can with a friend from Achimota School. The journey has been enriching, impacting the lives of thousands of girls across Africa.
In 2023, I took another step forward in my career by enrolling in a master’s programme in Image Analysis and Machine Learning at Uppsala University, Sweden, to further develop my skills in artificial intelligence. Being a woman in tech has been both fulfilling and challenging. It has pushed me to grow in ways I never expected. I’ve had to stand my ground, prove my skills and capabilities, and advocate for other women and girls like me to receive equal opportunities. It’s work I love, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
There have been many moments in my journey when I felt imposter syndrome, when I feared failure, actually failed, and had to pick myself back up. But I’ve learned to thrive by understanding who I am and leaning into that. I’ve of course had my friends and family to support me through tough times. Surround yourself with people who celebrate your wins—it builds confidence. Take advice from different sources, accept the consequences of your decisions, and always choose yourself. Always ask questions until you’re satisfied with the answers instead of accepting things at face value. Trust your instincts, but also feed your mind with positive thoughts. Read widely and carefully. Watch and listen to people, in-person, through podcasts, or videos, who have walked the path before you—not just in tech, but across different fields. Don’t wait to feel “ready” before starting a new venture, course, business, or degree. Gather the essentials and take the leap. If you wait for the “perfect” moment, you may never begin.
One quote I live by comes from Edmund Bacon: “It is in the doing that the idea comes.” Once you start, you learn and pivot along the way until you reach your goal. Don’t let fear hold you back. You are not defined by your grades or GPA. I know this can be hard to hear when you’re in school, but it’s true. School was tough for me, but I gave it my best. What matters is that you try. Even though I didn’t graduate with the highest grades, I gained valuable lessons in my four years at Ashesi that have propelled me forward. Good grades open doors, so put in the effort, but also give yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. Focus on your strengths, explore your passions—even outside of academics—and develop soft skills. Often, those will take you further than technical knowledge alone.
To all the young women and girls pursuing careers in science, technology, and beyond: you belong here just as much as anyone else. Don’t let anyone put you in a box—there’s so much you can achieve with just a little push. Most importantly, know that you are THAT girl!
