The Swinging Palm Trees Podcast
Hi there! My name is Akín, and thanks for tuning in.
On the podcast I chat with diverse guests from all backgrounds, and they talk about their lived experiences & stories, and share the words, quotes or sayings that have shaped their mindsets. With all the stories that are shared, there is also the underlying theme of mental health and wellbeing, and in many instances, also discussing heritage, culture and their own unique individual outlook to life
Also, despite the serious tone of certain issues and themes discussed, a light-hearted approach is also injected into the conversations which also displays the resilience of the guests and their humour, despite the circumstance.
I hope you find the conversations educational and enriching to your wellbeing.
Keep Rising & Thriving, Aṣẹ!
Executive producer: Ashanti Omkar
The Swinging Palm Trees Podcast
Episode 97 with Abigail & Donna Otchere of SiSTEM UK
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On today's episode, I chat with sisters Donna and Abigail Otchere, a Mechanical Engineer and Biomedical Scientist respectively. We talk about their interest in the sciences and why they created SiSTEM, a non-profit organisation connecting women and Sciences. The sisters talk about what science means to them, the importance of encouraging children towards science; they challenges they've had within their respective fields of expertise, and their thoughts as to why women are generally unrecognised for their achievements. They also share the importance of confidence, mental health and how their faith supports them. It also goes without saying that the topic of Jollof rice comes up in conversation, and of course, the quote that continually inspires them.
Dr Abigail and Donna are sisters and co-founders of SiSTEM. SiSTEM is an initiative which connects women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Abigail is a PhD graduate of biomedical science and works in medical communications. Donna is a mechanical engineering graduate working as a program officer. Birthed from their own experiences, SiSTEM is a network to support women and improve retention and the uptake of women by inspiring from early years to working professionals. Both sisters are passionate about seeing more young girls in STEM especially black girls and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.
Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!
I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.
If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.
Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!