In today’s celebration of women in this Women’s History Month, we look at Philomena Mbura Githiri. Philomena is a Data scientist in Google’s WTM (Women Techmakers) program.
As a member of the African Women in Tech community and a data scientist by trade, Philomena attributes her analytical and problem-solving skills as her greatest attributes. She is also highly adaptable, stating that as an ever-evolving field, data science rewards people willing to learn and interested in a challenge. She also says she is creative as she needs to approach problems from different angles, a necessary skill in a field that calls for innovation and change.
Career Achievement
On her biggest career achievements, Philomena states that empowering and inspiring women to pursue careers in tech through mentorship is always part of her proudest moments. She also has been selected as a Women in Data Science Stanford University Advisory Board Member. She has also been conducting training programs and networking, which she is proud of. However, she also lists diversity advocacy, helping build stronger supportive tech communities in Kenya and Africa, calling on young girls to join STEM, and supporting them with resources as her other great accomplishments.
On overcoming biases, Philomena lists overcoming gender and age biases by speaking up and making sure she delivers on her tasks.
Advice to young women in tech
Her advice to young women entering the tech field: “Be bold, be proactive, and don’t be limited by the fact that you are a woman, so speak up and make contributions. Embrace failures and learn from them so that you may grow. Surround yourself with people who believe in you but also believe in yourself. Be tenacious and determined to achieve your goals, and lastly, practice your skills and knowledge. As you do that, ensure to keep a work-life balance.”
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