Folashade Olorunfemi

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Inspiring and motivating others is more effective than forcing them. Creating a shared vision and empowering ownership fosters collaboration and growth for sustainable outcomes. This approach defines my leadership style.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

Admission to four prestigious global grad schools: University of Illinois–Chicago (USA), University of Manitoba (Canada), University of Sao Paulo (Brazil), University Jena (Germany). Validates my belief in boundary-breaking pursuit of excellence.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

I aspire to work in research and development in biotech or pharmaceuticals, innovating therapeutics to alleviate human diseases. I’ll leverage my passion, expertise, and collaboration to drive impactful solutions while overcoming challenges like regulatory hurdles and scientific complexity.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

It would be amazing to lead a groundbreaking research project in molecular cell and developmental biology, unraveling mysteries of cellular processes and contributing to life-changing discoveries.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

Since I joined last month AWIS has been invaluable, offering networking opportunities and mentorship in STEM fields. Engaging with peers and experts has expanded my professional horizons and provided guidance for navigating challenges.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Consistency

How do you define it?

Consistency is the power to persist, to show up daily, pour in the effort, and maintain a steady rhythm, relentlessly driving towards your goals, and once achieved, continuing to soar, making excellence a perpetual habit.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Consistency drives my career. Persistently showing up, pouring in effort, and maintaining a steady rhythm lead to success. It instills discipline and makes excellence a habit, propelling me forward.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS enriches my career journey through networking, mentorship, and learning in STEM. Peers and experts offer guidance and support, empowering me to navigate challenges and strive for excellence.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

The Power of Vulnerability. Dr. Brené Browns insights on vulnerability’s role in fostering connection and resilience are invaluable for all, including those in STEM.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. This advice has empowered me to learn from setbacks, grow stronger, and persist in pursuing my goals, both personally and professionally.

Folashade (Gloria) Olorunfemi is a STEM advocate with a biochemistry and education background. From top honors to working with the Global Emergency Pathogens Treatment Consortium, she aims to make a difference. Pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Illinois Chicago, she wants to innovate therapeutics in biotech and pharma. Through her journey and advocacy, she wants to inspire others, especially women, to pursue STEM and contribute to equity.