Celebrating Mother’s in STEM: Rono Mercy Redefining Success and Inspiring Her Community

What is your name?

Rono Mercy

Which STEM field are you in?

Engineering

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

My Dad has been my main inspiration in this journey; however another factor played a role in my choosing of STEM, which is the Society that I come from. A girl child in my society mostly gets married immediately after high school or is seen as someone who cannot accomplish much. Most parents do not even take girls to school, and I felt I needed to be the change and show them that we can actually do it and even so, do what people consider manly which is my why.

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

My journey in the field has been quite an easy and interesting one. I say easy because I have embraced all the challenges that come, and I have always strived to give my very best in everything that Iam involved in. It has also been interesting as I have gotten to prove to myself that its actually possible.

How has motherhood impacted your career journey in STEM?

Motherhood has positively impacted my STEM journey, after becoming a mom, I have gotten more focused, more determined and more driven as I have people looking up to me and dependent on me. It has however had its own challenges as you take time off during your maternity leave and on coming back to work you find your peers having progressed a little bit in the career but there is always a balance, because you’ve got to move fast, and you got to adapt to changes.

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

Finding the balance between work and family has been the major challenge because I have to be fully present at work and I also have to be fully present for my kids without one infringing on the other.

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

Our work arrangements are flexible, and I have also had the strongest support system back at home so leaving the kids at home and focusing on work when needed has been easy.

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

The STEM Industry should maintain flexible working hours for we still need to have our families and work needs to be done too. The industry should also form support and mentorship groups for mothers and promote a work-life integration culture without hindering productivity.

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

We should share our success stories so that we can show the new and aspiring mothers that it is possible to be a mom and still be a lady in STEM. We should also have mentorship sessions, this way we will better address all issues on a personal level.

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

It rains everywhere, so trust me the challenges faced by a mom in STEM are the exact similar ones faced by another mom in another career path, plus it all gets better with time, for kids do grow, they do not stagnate in the same stage all their life. Motherhood is the most rewarding thing around and nothing beats the joy of watching your kids grow and the determination to succeed it all builds in you.