International Day of Women and Girls in Science

What first drew you to science, and what has kept you motivated throughout your career?

From an early age, I was fascinated by how science turns curiosity into clarity, how a question can lead to discovery, and discovery can lead to meaningful impact. What has kept me motivated is the lifelong learning that science demands. Every challenge brings a new opportunity to understand more, improve processes, and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. That continuous evolution is what energizes me.

What’s a career decision you’re especially proud of even if it felt risky at the time?

One of the decisions I’m most proud of is stepping into leadership roles where I could influence culture as much as strategy. It required courage to move beyond purely scientific work and embrace broader organizational responsibilities, but it allowed me to mentor others, amplify diverse voices, and shape environments where more women feel empowered to lead.

How has being a woman shaped the way you lead, collaborate, or make decisions today?

Being a woman has made me very intentional about inclusive leadership. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and making sure all voices, especially underrepresented ones, are heard. I’ve seen firsthand how diversity strengthens teams, improves problem‑solving, and leads to better outcomes. My lived experiences make me more attuned to fostering environments where people feel safe to contribute and grow.

Why is representation so important in science, not just for women, but for innovation as a whole?

Representation fuels innovation. When people from different backgrounds contribute ideas, they challenge assumptions, identify overlooked opportunities, and create solutions that serve a wider world. For women, representation sends a powerful message: you belong here. It opens doors that might otherwise feel closed. But for science as a whole, it strengthens creativity, rigor, and the quality of the work. Diverse teams simply perform better.

What advice would you give to a girl or young woman considering a future in science?

Stay curious, stay confident, and stay connected. Science needs your perspective so don’t underestimate the value you bring. Seek mentors, ask questions without hesitation, and trust that your voice deserves to be part of the conversation. Remember: you don’t have to be fearless to move forward. You just need to be willing to take the next step.

What excites you most about the future of science, and what role do you hope women will play in shaping it?

I’m excited by the increasing intersection of science, technology, and collaboration. The challenges ahead, require multidisciplinary thinking and inclusive leadership. I hope women not only participate but lead these efforts. Their insights, resilience, and approach to problem‑solving are essential to shaping a more innovative, equitable