In Conversation: Mattu Tehtor Kroma

In this edition of In Conversation, we speak with Mattu Tehtor Kroma, a TALENT PhD fellow from Sierra Leone who discusses the significance of mentorship and support networks for early career researchers, particularly young women.

Hello Mattu, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.
I am happy to speak with you. Thank you for the opportunity.

What is the significance of mentorship and circles of support in the careers of young aspiring scientists?
Thank you for raising this important topic.
Mentorship and support networks are crucial for young, aspiring scientists, especially for those from underrepresented regions like West Africa.
There is no doubt that mentorship offers invaluable guidance and advice from seasoned professionals who have successfully navigated the complexities of a scientific career. Mentors provide insights into the academic and professional landscape, aiding young scientists in making informed decisions about their education, research focus, and career trajectory.
Typically, mentors possess extensive networks within the scientific community. Through mentorship, young scientists gain access to these networks, which can lead to collaboration opportunities, research funding, and enhanced career prospects—vital for those without pre-existing connections in the field.
It is noteworthy that mentors assist young scientists in developing critical skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Constructive feedback and mentorship enable mentees to refine their abilities and become more proficient researchers and communicators.
I would like to add that, the journey to a career in science is filled with challenges. Mentors act as pillars of support, providing encouragement and reassurance during tough times, helping mentees to overcome hurdles with resilience and determination.
For young scientists from underrepresented backgrounds, having mentors who reflect their own experiences and identities is incredibly meaningful. Witnessing the success of scientists who resemble them can be inspiring and affirming, bolstering their confidence in their capabilities and aspirations.
Mentors often have access to vital resources such as laboratory facilities, research materials, and funding opportunities. Establishing mentor-mentee relationships grants young scientists access to these resources, which are essential for conducting high-quality research and advancing their scientific careers.
In essence, mentorship and supportive communities are pivotal in shaping the careers of young aspiring scientists. They provide guidance, networking opportunities, skill development, emotional support, representation, and resource access. For a West African female student like myself, pursuing a research degree, mentorship can be a transformative force, enabling me to surmount obstacles and realise my full potential within the scientific community.

As an early-career researcher, how has mentorship positively shaped your journey?
As a young female researcher, I have found mentorship to be a cornerstone of my growth and success. My mentors have been my compass throughout my academic and research endeavours. They have illuminated the path through the complexities of academia, advising on research topics, pinpointing funding sources, and helping to chart a course for my career.
The mentorship I have received has provided me with an opportunity to develop essential skills required for success in research. It has challenged me to hone my abilities in critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific writing, and encouraged me to seize professional development opportunities.
A significant perk of mentorship has been the entrée into a professional network. My mentors have been the bridge connecting me to a community of colleagues, collaborators, and potential employers, fostering opportunities for networking and collaboration.
The pursuit of a research degree is fraught with challenges. In moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, my mentors have been a wellspring of encouragement. Their faith in my abilities has been a beacon, guiding me to persevere through adversity.
As a woman of West African heritage, seeing mentors who mirror my background has been profoundly empowering. Their success stories have bolstered my confidence and inspired me to chase my dreams with conviction.
Mentorship has been the sculptor of my early career, shaping me with guidance, skill-building, networking, support, and inspiration. It has helped me surmount challenges and propelled me toward my academic and professional goals. My gratitude for this mentorship runs deep, as does its indelible impact on my trajectory.

How are you paying it forward and supporting girls and other young women in your field and community?
As an emerging Sierra Leonean woman researcher, I am dedicated to reciprocating the support and guidance I have received by nurturing and assisting girls and young women in my field and community:
I am actively involved in mentorship programs that bolster girls and young women aspiring to careers in STEM in Sierra Leone. Through these programs, I provide guidance, advice, and encouragement, aiding mentees in steering their academic and career journeys.
I participate in community outreach efforts that motivate and enable girls and young women to explore their interests in science and research. Collaborating with local organisations, I share my journey and serve as a beacon for budding researchers through school visits, workshops, and speaking engagements.
Utilising my connections within the scientific community, I create networking opportunities for girls and young women in my field. By linking them with professionals, researchers, and mentors, I help expand their professional circles and introduce them to a variety of career paths and possibilities.
I disseminate resources and information pertinent to girls and young women with an interest in STEM, including scholarships, internships, and educational materials. My goal is to bolster their academic and professional growth by ensuring they have access to these essential resources.
I champion gender equity and inclusivity in STEM fields, striving to empower girls and young women to follow their passions and surmount any obstacles they may encounter. By spotlighting gender-related challenges and championing change, I work towards fostering a more supportive and inclusive atmosphere for the forthcoming cadre of female researchers.
In essence, I offer support, mentorship, and empowerment to girls and young women in my sphere and beyond, inspiring them to pursue fulfilling careers in STEM. By ‘paying it forward,’ I aspire to enrich the scientific community with a tapestry of talents and viewpoints from diverse individuals.

Looking back, what important lessons do you wish your younger self learned before journeying into the sciences?
As I traverse my journey into the sciences, I have gathered pearls of wisdom I wish to impart to my younger self.
You see in science, failure is not a mark of inadequacy but a beacon guiding towards success. I wish I had grasped this sooner, understanding that setbacks are fertile ground for growth and learning. Adopting resilience and a growth mindset early on would have fortified me against the inevitable challenges.
Furthermore, the importance of support and teamwork in science cannot be overstated. I wish I had sought the camaraderie of peers, mentors, and colleagues earlier, recognising that science thrives on collective endeavour and that collaboration enriches research quality and provides a network of support.
As a West African woman researcher, I now see the richness that my unique perspective brings to the scientific tapestry. I wish I had embraced my cultural identity sooner, wielding it as a strength to infuse my research with diversity and innovation.
The rigors of academia and research demand much, and I wish I had placed greater emphasis on self-care from the beginning. Balancing the scales between work and well-being is crucial for sustaining health and productivity over the long haul.
Science is ever-changing, and I wish I had nurtured a deeper curiosity and openness to new ideas and discoveries. Such a mindset is the lifeblood of innovation and intellectual expansion.
Lastly, I wish I had taken more time to celebrate each achievement, no matter the size. Recognising progress is vital for maintaining morale and motivation on the demanding journey of scientific exploration.

Thank you, Mattu.
You are most welcome.