On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, the STEM Elevate Leadership & Advocacy Academy officially commenced its journey with a successful virtual orientation session, bringing together a dynamic cohort of women in STEM from diverse backgrounds and disciplines
The session marked the formal onboarding of fellows into the six-month leadership and advocacy program designed to empower women in STEM with the skills, confidence, mentorship, and networks needed to lead and create meaningful impact within their communities and industries.
The orientation was facilitated by the Program Coordinator, Prof. Priscilla Kolibea Mante, alongside Program Assistants Dr. Danielle Ofori and Dr. Benedict Agyenim-Boateng, who welcomed fellows into the STEM Elevate community and introduced them to the vision, structure, and expectations of the academy.
Speaking during the session, Prof. Priscilla Kolibea Mante emphasized the importance of creating intentional spaces that empower women to thrive and lead in STEM fields. She highlighted STEM Elevate’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in STEM by fostering mentorship, leadership development, advocacy, and career growth opportunities for women across Africa.
The orientation introduced the 22 successful fellows to the broader mission of STEM Elevate and its core initiatives, including the Career Navigator Program, the Leadership & Advocacy Academy, and the STEM Impact Grants initiative.
The fellows were also taken through the roadmap for the next six months, which will include leadership development workshops, advocacy training, mentorship engagements, networking opportunities, and practical impact-driven activities designed to strengthen their professional and personal growth.
A major highlight of the session was the introduction segment, where fellows shared their academic and professional backgrounds, interests, and aspirations. The cohort represents a rich diversity of STEM disciplines and brings together passionate women committed to innovation, leadership, and community impact.
The session also emphasized the importance of active participation, collaboration, accountability, and community building throughout the fellowship journey. Fellows were encouraged to maximize the opportunities available through the program while supporting one another in their growth journeys.
The orientation marks the beginning of what promises to be an impactful and transformative experience for the fellows as they prepare to become confident leaders and advocates within STEM spaces.
As STEM Elevate continues to expand its mission, the Leadership & Advocacy Academy represents another bold step toward building a strong pipeline of women leaders equipped to shape the future of STEM across Africa.
STEM Elevate remains committed to transforming, empowering, and elevating women in STEM through mentorship, leadership development, innovation, and community.
