Getting more girls interested in careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics is top of mind for governments and businesses around the world. One of the best ways to encourage more women to enter this male dominated field is to see women succeeding in the sector. On Friday October 19, 2018, Holy Name of Mary College School had the privilege of hosting Dr. Ponda Motsepe-Ditshego, Executive Medical Director at Amgen Canada.

Dr. Motsepe-Ditshego has worked within the innovative pharmaceutical industry in various medical and commercial roles for 15 years. She had a profound message for students based on the wisdom of Gandhi (be the change you want to see), rooted in the importance of education and pushing yourself to be the best version of yourself.

She shared her journey in education as a woman growing up in South Africa and as a woman of colour studying in the U.S. and South Africa. She reiterated the importance of a positive mindset and commitment to challenging yourself to see adversity as something that can be overcome and to work towards finding solutions to the many challenges that life may present.

Students were moved by her presentation and many stayed to learn more about her career path and how to overcome barriers for women in the sciences.