STEM Demystified – Ifeoluwa (Ojelabi) Oshodi (Nigeria)

Welcome to another edition of STEM Demystified, a project to tackle under-representation of women in STEM. This weekly Newsletter showcases how women are conquering science, technology, engineering, and mathematics worldwide.

Today, we celebrate Ifeoluwa Hephzibah Ojelabi as our STEM role model. Born in Nigeria, Ifeoluwa developed an early passion for mathematics and problem-solving, which set the stage for her illustrious career in STEM. Her journey from a young girl fascinated by numbers to a leading figure in Laboratory/ Metabolic medicine is a testament to her perseverance, faith, and dedication.

Ifeoluwa’s love for mathematics initially steered her towards chemical or computer engineering. However, with guidance of her faith and the drive for medical solutions ultimately led her to a fulfilling career in metabolic medicine and furthering into molecular diagnostics.

Ifeoluwa believes that her journey has been guided by God to fulfil a purpose, inspired by trailblazing women like Marie Curie and Folorunsho Alakija. Now, let’s explore her career and achievements in metabolic medicine and molecular pathology.

What was your trajectory from school to where you currently are professionally/academically?

I have always loved creating solutions, and my passion for mathematics initially had me leaning towards chemical or computer engineering. However, with divine guidance and a strong drive for medical solutions, I found my path in Laboratory Medicine and now ultimately in molecular diagnostics, where I am seeing my dreams of medical solution coming into reality.

What motivated you to get into STEM? Did you have a female role model or anyone who inspired you?

I am largely God dependent, He directs, energises and motivates me, but I deeply admire women like Marie Curie for her energy and determination in sciences. She constantly sought ways to provide solutions with her knowledge in physics and chemistry, a trait I strive to emulate. Another inspirational figure for me is Folorunsho Alakija, despite her gender, making waves in the business world making her the richest woman in Africa, success in her chosen career is both motivating and affirming.

What’s your most important professional/academic achievement?

My most important achievements include earning a Fellowship in Metabolic Medicine as a Chemical Pathologist and finding my pathway to subspecialising in my ultimate dream Molecular diagnostics.

Did you face any challenges throughout your professional/academic journey? How did you overcome them?

Yes, the journey to fulfilment is never a straight one, I am still climbing, not at the zenith yet, but I believe that I am closer to my dreamland today than yesterday. I had faced challenges in career decisions and experienced delays along the way. However, with consistent effort, guidance of God and encouragement from family and friends, I have been able to make steady progress. The progress made is a further encouragement to do more especially when I see patients that needs the medical solutions that I am tailored to deliver.

In your opinion, what needs to be done to attract more women into STEM?

1. We must serve as good examples to motivate others to follow.
2. Providing early career guidance and counselling to girls is crucial.

What advice would you give to anyone looking into a career in STEM (or those who do not consider it)?

1. Sciences offer a platform to provide solutions to life and humanity.
2. It is incredibly fun and fulfilling to work in STEM.

Ifeoluwa’s journey from Nigeria to becoming a leader in metabolic medicine and now in molecular diagnostics showcases the importance of perseverance, faith, and passion in STEM careers. Her story resonates with many women who feel marginalised or underrepresented in their fields, offering validation and encouragement to pursue their goals.

By sharing her journey, Ifeoluwa inspires others to see that with determination and resilience, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success. Her commitment to setting a positive example and providing guidance to the next generation underscores the importance of supporting and empowering women in STEM.