Olayemi’s Story
My name is Olayemi Bakare, and I’m 22 years old. I’m a graduate of microbiology from Adekunle Ajasin University in Nigeria and I’m a Life Sciences Reviewer at Youth STEM Matters.
You first got involved in Youth STEM 2030 by writing articles for Youth STEM Matters - could you tell us a bit about your experience doing that? How did the review process impact your work?
“I can say without reservations that the review process brought out the best in my articles.”
I have written two science communication articles for Youth STEM Matters. I had to research my topics and got a lot of support from the team with guidance on writing science communication articles and suggestions for selecting the right images. After writing the draft, the article was reviewed and I received insightful feedback and suggestions at the end of the process, which allowed me to improve the quality of my article. With that being said, I can say without reservations that the review process brought out the best in my articles.
How did writing articles benefit you?
Honestly, it was a good way to contribute to the amazing work at Youth STEM Matters. I had to learn more about my article topics which equated to gaining additional knowledge and I also regained confidence in my writing skills. I have written an original research article before but writing science communication articles for Youth STEM Matters was an entirely new experience for me.
Last year you joined the Youth STEM Summit as an attendee - what was your highlight of the Summit?
That’s a tough one because there were lots of speeches that were enlightening to me. But, Licypriya Kangujam’s talk on climate change and her display of passion for the topic was especially thought-provoking for me.
What did you learn from the Summit and how did it impact you?
“The Youth STEM Summit is one of the best virtual events I have attended to date, and it exceeded my expectations.”
A lot! From innovations in the field of science, more about gender bias, solutions to some pressing problems of the world like climate change, and lots more. I'd say the Youth STEM Summit is one of the best virtual events I have attended to date, and it exceeded my expectations. I found the summit relevant, engaging and challenging because the speakers had interesting topics and international perspectives. More importantly, it made me more conscious of the key problems of our time and the fact that I could be doing more to contribute to the solutions.
What encouraged you to apply to join the Youth STEM Matters team?
When I came across Youth STEM Matters advert, I was excited to see young people working to empower young scientists around the world. I also saw the learning potential of joining the team.
What advice would you give to other young people who are thinking about getting involved in Youth STEM 2030?
If you are passionate about the STEM field, you want to collaborate with other young people in a very diverse community to make a positive impact in the world, and are willing to learn and grow, then Youth STEM 2030 is absolutely the right place for that. Also, If you don’t make the team, you can still find other ways to get involved until you get the opportunity to apply again.
“If you are passionate about the STEM field, you want to collaborate with other young people in a very diverse community to make a positive impact in the world, and are willing to learn and grow, then Youth STEM 2030 is absolutely the right place for that.”
In March 2021, Youth STEM 2030 and Youth STEM Matters are both celebrating their first birthdays! What do you hope to see us achieve over the coming year?
For the organisation as a whole, I look forward to a greater impact on young people around the world, encouraging them to get involved in SDGs not just with the organisation but also in their local communities. I’d also really love for another summit to be held this year. For Youth STEM Matters, I hope to see more original research and review articles published over the coming year.