Celebrating Mothers in STEM: Miriam Eduful’s story of conscious self development

What is your name?

My name is Miriam Eduful.

Which STEM field are you in?

I am in Engineering.

What/Who inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?

Career women I met at Girls Science Clinics inspired me.

Could you share a brief overview of your journey in the STEM field?

At Secondary Schools in 1994 and 1995 I was selected among other girls by my school Aggrey Memorial Zion Secondary School, Cape Coast in Ghana to attend girls science clinics. We were well fed three times a day with in between snacks and fruits, we were taken to excursions to industries and factories where STEM careers are being implemented example, Akosombo where power is generated, Meteorological office, Manufacturing industry like Akosombo Textiles and many more. There were science work shops where we used the telescope, other lab instruments, litmus papers to solve problems identified. We had seminars where successful females in stem with diverse backgrounds spoke to us about their careers, challenges and how they have thrived till date. Fast forward, I became Electrical Engineer and have practiced for 20year with a whole lot of challenges which I have overcome and still thriving. I am now a fellow professional engineer with the Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana and a General Manager in charge of Safety, Health and Environment.

How has motherhood impacted your career journey in STEM?

Positively because as a mother of five children it has really taught me work life balance.

What are some of the challenges you have faced as a mother in the STEM industry?

I always need to stay awake untill midnight to learn when my husband and kids are asleep in order to make it in my exams or prepare presentation for programs I have been invited.

What support systems or resources have helped you navigate the challenges you faced being a mother in STEM?

Cooking aids like industrial blender, Halogen oven, microwave and support of external family members.

In what ways can the STEM industry better support and accommodate mothers?

Get centers to host their babies and house helps and sensitize workers to support them at work to go through childbirth healing process quickly.

How can we (mothers already in STEM) encourage more mothers and aspiring mothers pursue and thrive in STEM careers?

We need to encourage them to save money towards self development and make conscious effort to further their education.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue careers in STEM while also planning to become mothers?

It is a tough stage and they must psyche themselves that others have gone through the process and therefore they can also go through it but should seek help when needed.