Amanda Obidike works to improve digital literacy and STEM opportunities for young Africans through STEMi Makers Africa.
We live in a continent where technological skills increasingly shape economic opportunity, and Amanda Obidike has emerged as a notable advocate for improving access to STEM education among young people. As the Founder and Executive Director of STEMi Makers Africa, she works to address long-standing gaps in digital literacy, gender representation, and career exposure across several African communities.
Origins of STEMi Makers Africa
Obidike’s decision to establish STEMi Makers Africa was influenced by her personal experiences growing up in Nigeria, where she observed limited participation of girls in the science and technology fields. After studying Business Management and developing professional interests in data science, she became increasingly aware of how restricted access to technical education affected young people’s prospects.
STEMi Makers Africa was established in response to these challenges. Rather than functioning solely as a training platform, the organisation aims to expand access to STEM learning through community-based programmes, mentorship, and digital skill development. Its goal is to help young people, particularly girls, to gain the competencies needed to navigate a rapidly changing labour market.
Since its launch, STEMi Makers Africa has grown beyond its Nigerian origins. The organisation reports that it has reached more than 10,000 beneficiaries through initiatives delivered in over 65 communities across about 19 to 20 African countries. These programmes range from introductory STEM workshops to digital skills training, project-based learning, and mentorship schemes designed to support early-career development.
The organisation’s community-focused model also aims to strengthen local capacities by equipping young learners with practical skills that align with emerging sectors.
Under Obidike’s leadership, STEMi Makers Africa has received recognition from various international bodies. Obidike herself has been honoured with awards such as the TechWomen 100 Global Award for Achievement and a Stevie Award for Female Innovator of the Year. These acknowledgements highlight the growing visibility of her work within global STEM inclusion discussions.
Work beyond the organisation
Outside her executive responsibilities, Obidike is active in mentorship and public engagement. She has spoken at events including the MIT Global Community Bio Summit and the WonderWomen Tech Summit in the UK, sharing insights on digital inclusion, gender equity, and the future of work. She also collaborates with organisations such as the New York Academy of Sciences and the Cherie Blair Foundation, contributing to international mentorship and capacity-building programmes.
As African countries continue to adapt to digital transformation, efforts to improve STEM education remain critical. Obidike’s work with STEMi Makers Africa reflects ongoing attempts to bridge existing gaps and expand opportunities for young people across the region. While challenges such as funding, infrastructure limitations, and educational disparities persist, the organisation’s initiatives contribute to a broader conversation about preparing African youth for future employment and innovation.
