EP#50 - PROFESSION-BLENDING: NURSING TO AUTHORSHIP with Fatmata Jalloh

In this episode, I talk with Fatmata Jalloh, Nurse Practitioner and Children’s Book Author, about the Journey of Blending Nursing with Authorship.Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Fatmata Jalloh:How did you get started in what you are doing today?Who do you help in your business now?Can you highlight diverse roles for nurse practitioners?How does writing break professional barriers, allowing diverse backgrounds to share stories?How vital is diversity in children's literature, and what impact does it have on future generations' aspirations?What advice would you give to inspire STEM exploration and diversity in these fields?What is the process to become a nurse practitioner?What are some challenges you've faced in transitioning from nursing to authorship?How have your healthcare experiences enriched your ability to engage young readers in STEM themes?What is one thing that has made your journey as an author fulfilling?Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Nursing to Authorship:Fatmata has been in the nursing field for 19 years, with 10 years as a nurse practitioner. She started writing children's books in 2020.As a cardiology nurse practitioner, Fatmata helps patients with heart conditions, providing advanced care.Her book, "My Beautiful Son," serves as a bonding experience for parents and supports early learning and literacy programs.Diversity in nursing is crucial, with only 4-5% of nurse practitioners being Black. Fatmata encourages STEM exploration due to the diverse roles available in nursing.Writing has allowed Fatmata to share her experiences authentically, breaking professional barriers and providing representation in children's literature.She emphasizes the importance of diversity in children's books, enabling children to see themselves represented and inspiring future aspirations.Fatmata advises aspiring healthcare professionals to volunteer in hospitals to gain firsthand experience and mentorship.Becoming a nurse practitioner typically involves starting with an associate's degree, progressing to a bachelor's degree, then pursuing a master's degree with national certification.Challenges include overcoming stereotypes and the lack of representation, both in healthcare and the competitive field of self-publishing.Despite challenges, Fatmata finds fulfillment in making a difference through her book, donating proceeds to support literacy and educational programs.About the Host: Tiffani TeacheyTiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.