When I completed my PhD, I did something unexpected. I chose to become an entrepreneur. And the backlash? LOUD!!! From seasoned professors to freshly minted PhDs, there was confusion, disbelief, even disdain. “Why would you leave research?” they asked.But here’s the thing: I wasn’t leaving anything. I was building something. For me, the PhD wasn’t…
Tag: education
Dr Kolisa Sinyanya and Ulwazi’s Role in the Gulf Youth Ambassador Program: Curriculum Empowering Youth Through Co-Design
In a groundbreaking initiative, my company, Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research, is leading a collaborative effort to co-design the Gulf Youth Ambassador Programme curriculum. This partnership exemplifies a commitment to inclusive education and youth empowerment, aligning with Ulwazi’s mission to transform lives through quality and inclusive education. A Visionary Leader in STEM Education When…
Dr Kolisa Yola Sinyanya is Officially in the Running for the Nature Inspiring Women in Science: Science Outreach Award 🌍✨
It’s official, I’m in the running for the Nature Inspiring Women in Science: Science Outreach Award! Just writing that feels surreal!!! It’s Nature! Even at this stage, being recognised by Nature, one of the most prestigious scientific platforms globally, is a deeply affirming moment for me and everything I’ve poured into science communication, education, and outreach. This…
Experiencing the Complexities of Early Career Academia: My Experience with Publication Challenges
The journey of an early-career researcher is often filled with triumphs and challenges. One such experience brought significant recognition and valuable lessons but left me grappling with questions about equity in academic systems. This reflects on that journey and the systemic issues it highlighted, which are relevant to many early-career scientists. A Prestigious Honor and…
Dr Sinyanya’s Journey as an AGU CoP Global Ambassador: Empowering Communities and Advancing Geoscience
As a passionate advocate for science and its transformative power, I had the privilege of serving as the 2022- 2023 Global Ambassador for the American Geophysical Union’s (AGU) Community of Practice (CoP). This role allowed me to deepen my engagement with the global scientific community, strengthen collaborations, and amplify the voices of diverse researchers across…
Significant challenges that have turned into blessings
As the year ends, I’m reflecting on a significant challenge I faced just before the completion of my PhD because I had ideas I wanted to implement. However, the national funder would only fund projects they approved of, which did not particularly interest me. What I wanted to achieve with my PhD had never been…
Dr Kolisa Sinyanya WON! Celebrating the Womandla Women in STEAM Award
I am still in awe as I sit down to write this. What a journey it has been! I am beyond thrilled to share with you that in August, which is International Women’s Month, I won the Womandla Women in STEAM Award! This is not just a personal victory but a win for every young…