Barbara Mutabazi: Her voice in science

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Tomorrow, on February 11, the world celebrates International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Under the theme dubbed: “Synergising AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls”, the UN is working towards bridging the gap of women and girls in science fields.

In tandem with the theme is Barbara Mutabazi, the founder of Women in Technology Uganda (WITU) and co-founder of Hive Colab, which is an innovation hub. Under WITU, Mutabazi aims to encourage and train women in technology through networking, training, mentoring and partnerships.

The 38-year-old had an online interview with New Vision and here are excerpts of the interview:

What does it take for girls to become STEM leaders like the women leading in science today?

Becoming a leader in STEM requires a combination of education, skills, mentorship, and resilience. Here are key factors that contribute to the success of girls in STEM:

Believe in yourself: Girls must believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Self-belief is the foundation of success—you are only limited by what you believe is possible for yourself.

Early exposure to STEM: Girls need access to quality science, technology, engineering, and math education from a young age to develop curiosity and confidence.

Strong role models and Mentors: Seeing and learning from women who have succeeded in STEM helps girls visualise their potential.

Supportive environment: Parents, teachers, and communities must encourage girls to pursue STEM careers without bias.

Access to opportunities: Internships, coding boot camps, and science competitions provide hands-on experience and build skills.

Resilience and growth mindset: Overcoming societal barriers and self-doubt is crucial for girls entering male-dominated STEM fields.

Networking and leadership development: Engaging in professional organisations, STEM clubs, and leadership training programs helps young women build confidence and influence.

When girls believe in themselves and have the right support, they can grow into STEM leaders who drive change and innovation in their fields.

Why should more girls take science courses?

Encouraging more girls to take science courses is crucial for personal, societal, and economic growth. Here’s why:

The world is becoming increasingly digital. Technology is at the centre of nearly every industry, from healthcare to finance to agriculture. Without tech skills, many will struggle to keep up and may not survive for long in the modern workforce. Understanding science and technology is no longer optional- it is a necessity.

Secondly, diverse perceptions lead to innovation. With more women in STEM, they ensure diverse problem-solving approaches, leading to better solutions in healthcare, engineering and technology.

Thirdly, high-paying careers and financial independence. STEM fields often provide better job opportunities and economic empowerment for women.

Lastly, more women in STEM means more female leaders in research, tech startups and policymaking. They also break the stereotypes and pave the way for future generations.

What are women leaders in the science field, like Barbara Mutabazi, doing?

Women STEM leaders like Barbara Mutabazi are driving change through innovation, mentorship, and advocacy. Some of the key areas where they are making an impact include:

STEM education and digital Literacy: I have been instrumental in training thousands of young women in digital skills through WITU and Hive Colab, ensuring they have the technical skills to compete in the digital economy.

Creating pathways to employment: I have launched programmes like ElevateHer360 that connect trained women to job opportunities in STEM-related fields.

Investment in women’s entrepreneurship: Through Nsimbi Impact, I am working to provide capital and resources for women-led businesses, especially those leveraging technology.

Advocacy for women in STEM: By serving on advisory boards and speaking at global forums (including the United Nations), I champion policies that promote women's participation in science and technology.

Building digital infrastructure: Through collaborations with international organisations, I have supported digital transformation efforts that empower women entrepreneurs.

Other women STEM leaders worldwide are leading similar initiatives in research, climate solutions, AI (artificial intelligence), and biotechnology, ensuring that science remains a tool for progress.

How can STEM empower women to become entrepreneurs? Is it too late for women already in the marketplace?

It is never too late for women in the marketplace to incorporate STEM into their businesses. Here’s how STEM can empower women entrepreneurs:

E-Commerce & Digital Marketing: Women entrepreneurs can use technology to scale their businesses through online platforms, digital payment systems, and AI-driven marketing.

Data-driven decision-making: Understanding analytics and market trends through tech tools can help women make better business decisions.

Tech-enabled services: Women in various fields, from fashion to health, can integrate tech-based solutions such as telemedicine, smart farming, and fintech applications.

STEM-based entrepreneurship: Women with backgrounds in STEM can start businesses in biotech, renewable energy, engineering solutions, and software development.

Access to funding and networks: Women in STEM are more likely to access grants, venture capital, and innovation hubs supporting tech-based startups.

STEM is a powerful enabler for women and girls, providing them with the skills and opportunities to lead in business, innovation, and global sustainability. With more women, like me, paving the way, the future of women in STEM is brighter than ever.