A testimony of the power of mentorship through my own academic journey in Africa, from undergraduate to PhD level. As I reflect on my academic journey, one thing becomes abundantly clear: mentorship has been the cornerstone of my success.
The guidance and support I received from my supervisors and mentors were invaluable, shaping not only my research but also my professional identity.
In this post, I’d like to share my experiences with two exceptional supervisors and one inspiring mentor, each of whom played a pivotal role in my development as a scholar.
The Power of Mentorship in Action: My journey through academia
The Foundation: My Main Supervisor
My primary supervisor, a seasoned professor with years of experience, was instrumental in laying the groundwork for my PhD journey.
His meticulous approach to writing and thorough understanding of university requirements provided me with a solid framework to build upon. He instilled in me the importance of precision and clarity in research—a skill that would prove essential throughout my career.
Working as a project assistant and later as a research fellow under his guidance, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in various aspects of research design and implementation.
This hands-on experience was invaluable. I learned about budgeting, organizing workshops, and presenting my work effectively. He taught me that research is not just about gathering data; it’s about communicating findings in a way that resonates with both academic and public audiences.
One of the most significant lessons I learned from him was the value of constructive feedback. He was thorough in his reviews of my writing, and although it sometimes felt daunting, I understood that his intention was to help me grow.
This process taught me resilience and the importance of continually refining my work. I emerged from this mentorship not only as a better researcher, but also as a more confident individual ready to face the challenges of academia.
The Guiding Hand: My Second Supervisor
My second supervisor was a younger lecturer and, interestingly, I was her first PhD student.
This unique dynamic created a supportive and nurturing environment, allowing us to develop a collaborative relationship. She held my hand every step of the way, guiding me through the intricacies of academic writing.
From structuring a manuscript to using a journal finder, she provided the tools I needed to navigate the publication process.
Her expertise in my field was invaluable, especially when it came to improving the technical aspects of my thesis and publications.
With her support, I successfully applied for funding from the National Geographic Society to complete my fieldwork.
This achievement was a turning point for me, as it not only provided the necessary resources for my research but also instilled a sense of legitimacy in my work.
Beyond funding, she introduced me to the Women in Nature Network, a community that has continued to support me. This network opened doors to new collaborations and opportunities, reinforcing the idea that mentorship often extends beyond formal settings.
In 2019, she encouraged me to apply for a winter school in scenario planning in Brazil. This experience was transformative, enhancing my understanding of participatory approaches and allowing me to connect with peers from around the world.
Such opportunities are often made possible through the encouragement of mentors who see potential in their mentees.
The Inspirational Mentor
While my supervisors provided academic guidance, my third mentor offered something different: a keen interest in my work and encouragement to pursue my goals.
Although he wasn’t my supervisor, I joined his project early in my PhD journey and received initial funding for the first objective of my research. This initial support was crucial, as it laid the groundwork for what would become a significant part of my academic career.
From the outset, he took an active interest in my development, encouraging me to strive for excellence. Thanks to his support, I attended my first academic conference, an experience that helped me understand the importance of networking and collaboration in research.
The confidence I gained from presenting my work and engaging with other scholars was a catalyst for my future endeavours.
I continue to collaborate with him on a National Geographic-funded project, assisting Masters and PhD students in socio-ecological research.
This ongoing relationship highlights how mentorship can evolve into collaboration, creating a cycle of support that benefits not only individuals but also the wider academic community.
The Impact of Mentorship
Through these experiences, I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact that mentorship can have on an academic journey.
Each of these individuals played a unique role in my development, providing guidance, encouragement, and opportunities that have shaped my career. They taught me that mentorship is not just about academic success; it’s also about personal growth, resilience, and building a supportive network.
As I move forward in my career, I aim to pay it forward by mentoring others in the same way I was mentored.
This is precisely the reason I founded Africa Research Hub. I believe that nurturing the next generation of researchers in Africa is essential for the continued advancement of knowledge on our beautiful continent.
Conclusion
If you’re embarking on your own academic journey, I urge you to seek out mentors who can guide you, challenge you, and support you.
Even if they’re not your academic supervisor, a mentor can do a lot to help you keep focused and encouraged on your academic journey.
Their wisdom and experience can be invaluable, helping you navigate the complexities of academia. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street; while you gain knowledge and support, you also have the opportunity to contribute to the growth of others, creating a lasting legacy in your field.
