From a curious child with no fixed career plan to a researcher navigating Zambia, Russia, Germany, and Sweden, her story is about more than education it's about resilience, reinvention, and learning to trust the detours. Dr. Miyanda shares how teachers who adapted to her learning style changed everything, why she initially felt like an imposter in science, and how being forced to start over in a new language taught her independence. She also opens up about the emotional weight of studying abroad, the pressure of speaking up in predominantly white academic spaces, and what it really takes to keep going when your environment is working against you. You'll discover:

• Why she thought she would become a mathematician, then an engineer, then ended up in soil science
• How Russia's exam-driven system and oral defenses reshaped her confidence
• Why her master's in Germany gave her the freedom to explore sustainability, organic agriculture, marketing, and policy
• The surprising findings from her PhD on carbon storage, soil minerals, roots, and the assumptions behind climate models
• Why she believes African knowledge around farming, composting, and urban agriculture deserves to be treated as real scientific knowledge

Miyanda also explains why sustainability in Africa looks very different from the way it's packaged in the global north, from maize monocultures and fertilizer dependence to indigenous crops, food systems, and the politics of carbon credits. Her reflections on veganism, climate justice, and the future of agriculture make this episode especially relevant if you care about science, education, African innovation, or the hidden politics shaping what counts as knowledge.Perfect for students, young women in STEM, researchers, and anyone who has ever felt "not enough" on the way to becoming exactly who they were meant to be.

Dr. Miyanda Chipilamushi is a Zambian scientist and researcher whose work spans soil science, sustainability, and climate-related agricultural systems. Her journey across multiple countries and disciplines offers a powerful perspective on what it means to build expertise without losing curiosity.

Dr. Miyanda’s PhD Thesis:

·       The role of oxalate-extractable aluminum and root inputs in carbon storage in Swedish agricultural soils: ‘beyond the average’

Connect with Miyanda:

• LinkedIn

In this episode, Marjory shares her experience of overcoming self-doubt and navigating academic and cultural challenges while studying abroad. As the only female and Black mathematician at her university, she reflects on representation, belonging, and the importance of finding the confidence to pursue ambitious goals even when you don’t see many people like yourself in the room.

She discusses her research in geometric group theory, her passion for mathematics, and her vision for creating greater opportunities for African students. Marjory highlights important gaps in Zambia’s education system, including access to mentorship, training, resources, and opportunities for students interested in STEM.

We also explore the role of mathematics in artificial intelligence and machine learning, the value of mentorship, and the importance of making international opportunities more accessible to African students. Marjory shares her plans to empower young people through her foundation and innovative training initiatives, with a particular focus on helping the next generation build the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

Her story is especially powerful for young girls in Zambia and across Africa who may be considering careers in mathematics, science, technology, engineering, or other fields where women remain underrepresented. Marjory’s journey is a reminder that talent exists everywhere—and with determination, mentorship, and opportunity, it can flourish anywhere.

Whether you’re a student, educator, researcher, or simply curious about mathematics and the people who pursue it, this episode offers an inspiring look at resilience, representation, education, and the future of African STEM.

Guest

Marjory Mwanza is a PhD candidate in mathematics at the University of Münster, researching algebra and geometric group theory. She is also an entrepreneur, mentor, and author of the upcoming book Scribbled in Charcoal: A Memoir of Defiance and the Search for Proof. Through her work, she is committed to supporting African STEM talent and creating pathways for young people to access knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities.

Connect with Marjory

Facebook: Marjory Mwanza on Facebook

LinkedIn: Marjory Mwanza on LinkedIn

Proskills Institute: Proskills Institute Website

If you’re passionate about mathematics, women in STEM, education, African innovation, or creating opportunities for the next generation, this episode is essential listening. Marjory Mwanza’s journey is a testament to resilience, the power of representation, and the limitless potential of young minds across Africa.

#Mathematics #STEM #AfricaInSTEM #WomenInMath #EducationReform #Mentorship #Research #Inclusivity