RISING WOMAN 2025: Empowering women through STEM, A biotechnologist’s journey, advocacy

Aneth David is a biotechnologist by profession a scientist, academic, and researcher. She is passionate about creating impact through science, and beyond her day job, she engages in science communication and advocacy.

Her goal is to reach non-scientific audiences, including future scientists, the general public, and policymakers

The RWI Coordinator Salome Gregory had a chat on her career journey and how it impacts the lives of women.

As an academic and research scientist in biotechnology, how are you impacting the lives of women through your work?

As a lecturer, I contribute to training the future female workforce. Additionally, I mentor young and aspiring scientists, providing guidance on navigating the unique challenges women face in career progression.

Although the impact of my research using biotechnological tools in agriculture and health to improve livelihoods may not always be direct, these fields significantly affect women. For example, when we think of farming, the first image that comes to mind is often that of a woman with a hoe.

This is no coincidence; a large proportion of the agricultural workforce consists of women, yet they benefit less from it. By designing sustainable agricultural solutions such as biofertilisers and biopesticides, we aim to make farming more productive and safer, ultimately benefiting women’s lives.

What inspired your journey in STEM?

Growing up, I never saw myself doing anything other than science it felt natural even before I fully understood what it entailed. As a child, I had an insatiable curiosity and was always asking questions about the natural world.

Fortunately, my parents nurtured this curiosity and encouraged my love for learning. Being introduced to reading at an early age opened up a whole new world for me.

It was during my postgraduate studies that I truly appreciated the power of science in improving lives and solving societal challenges. That realization, along with my natural curiosity, continues to inspire me.

How are you championing an increase in women’s participation in STEM in Tanzania, given that female engagement in the field stands at just 36 percent?

I strive to be a positive role model for younger women. I share my journey as a scientist whenever possible through social media, mass media, career guidance sessions, and direct mentorship.

Additionally, I am intentional in ensuring that gender diversity is considered in all the initiatives I am involved in.

I prioritize women’s engagement and provide encouragement or gentle nudges to increase female participation in various programmes.

I understand how challenging it can be for women, especially young women, to advocate for themselves and step into leadership roles in STEM.

Why is it important to have more women in STEM?

Women make up approximately half of the world’s population. It is essential to have more women in STEM to ensure that our needs, challenges, and perspectives are represented. Moreover, diversity in STEM fosters a broader range of ideas, leading to more impactful and sustainable solutions.

How does your passion for science and communication strengthen your leadership journey in advancing science and technology in Tanzania and Africa?

My passion for science communication has made my research more relevant and impactful to society. I have learned how to communicate scientific concepts beyond academic circles, which is crucial for securing support from stakeholders, including the general public and policymakers.

You served as the country lead for Women in Tech Africa (WiTA) and as an ASAPbio fellow. How have these roles contributed to increasing women’s participation in technology?

WiTA aimed to support women in technology by equipping them with knowledge, skills, and inspiration to take up more space in the tech industry.

Meanwhile, ASAPbio provides early-career researchers with skills in open science communication. Both initiatives empower women in STEM by fostering inclusivity, access, and professional growth.

You have received several awards in science advocacy. How do these awards benefit aspiring female scientists in Tanzania?

I see these awards as recognition not just for myself but for the collective efforts of my colleagues and peers in science advocacy. They serve as encouragement and often act as catalysts for further impact.

Beyond personal recognition, these awards create visibility and open doors for bigger opportunities. For younger women, they provide real-life examples of how science can drive change.

They inspire and enable them to dream, reimagine their potential, and understand the impact they, too, can have on society.

What is your leadership style, and what guiding principles do you never compromise?

I believe in inspiring action by helping people realize their potential. I take a hands-on approach and lead by example. When I recognize potential in someone, I encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and seize opportunities for growth. My ultimate goal is to leave people better than I found them.