Received on 13th, August 2022.
Hello Priscilla, Congratulations on being selected as one of the amazing FIP WiSE Rising stars. What has been your motivation for all that you do?
I chose to do science because science is a tool for the benefit of Humanity. I believe the work I do matters and that it has great potential to provide hope for millions that live with conditions like epilepsy; by eradicating diseases that have baffled the world for years. And through that process, hopefully, my journey will empower young women around the world to believe in their abilities to be forces of change.
What challenges have you encountered in your career and how have you surmounted them?
My topmost challenges in my line of work have been finding sufficient funding for advancing my research and balancing my career aspirations with the other demands of society. With regards to funding, I mostly work on establishing collaborations with other researchers, mostly in the Global North. These collaborations help to cover significant amounts of research costs. Work-life balance has largely been possible through the help and support of my family and colleagues at work. My social circle has been very instrumental in my career advancement.
How do you see the importance of FIP in the pharmaceutical profession?
Professional bodies like FIP are important in the advancement of the profession. FIP affords pharmacists in all areas of practice opportunities to network with other colleagues with similar interests. New professionals can associate with senior colleagues and learn from them. FIP is critical in helping pharmacists keep abreast with global advancements in practice. And very importantly, it is critical to demonstrate to the rest of the world the relevance of the profession.
Please share your suggestions and advice to emerging female scientists interested in Research and academia on defying the status quo.
I would say they should be courageous and believe in themselves. They should have faith in their abilities to be change makers. Every dream of theirs is valid and no ambition is too great to be pursued. The world will always adjust.
What is your advice for early career pharmaceutical scientists in FIP YPG?
My advice would be: Be persistent and keep trying; especially when you experience failure. Learn from failure and do not lose sight of your initial motivation to pursue your chosen career. Stay firm in your convictions that you can contribute positively to the profession and humanity.
Thank you so much for your time and all the best in your endeavors.
