Dr Karin-Therese Howell – Academic Director of Mathematical Sciences at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Karin-Therese Howell who is the Academic Director of Mathematical Sciences at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, which is Africa’s first network of centres of excellence in mathematical sciences. There are currently centres in Cameroon, Ghana, Senegal and South Africa. The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences brings together some of the most gifted students in the continent and uses the slogan, “We believe the next Einstein will be African”. Dr. Howell narrates her journey into mathematics, in particular studies in abstract algebra and algebraic biology. Dr. Howell is passionate about her field and developing female mathematicians. She founded the African Women in Mathematics (AWiM) Conferences and Virtual Seminars, which was instrumental in establishing the Women in Mathematics division of the South African Mathematical Society. These organisations and the programmes they present are not only about the discipline, but address soft skills like how to market yourself, how to pitch your research and how to look for collaborators. Dr Howell shares how these types of communities show that everyone has a different journey in maths and has their own place in the field. Historically, women tend to be underrepresented in the field of mathematics but through mentorship, support from their peers and leaders they have the space to develop their skills and self-believe to pursue growth and overcome imposter syndrome. Part of Dr Howell’s recipe includes, “Step out, be brave, turn up and become comfortable with the uncomfortable.” Tune in for more…