Speakers
Oluwadamilola Okeyoyin
Dr Mya-Rose Craig
Georgina Fihosy
Plenary Session
STEM opens doors to a vast array of careers, shaping industries, driving innovation, and tackling global challenges. This panel brings together accomplished professionals from sustainability, conservation, pharmacy, business, and higher education to share how science has shaped their careers in unexpected and exciting ways.
Through personal stories and insights, our panellists will explore how a background in STEM can lead to diverse career opportunities, from advancing environmental conservation to leading business ventures and shaping education policy. Whether you're a student mapping your future or a professional considering new directions, this discussion will offer inspiration, practical advice, and the chance to engage with those who have successfully forged their own unique paths in science.
Join us to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and discover the many ways a passion for STEM can evolve into a fulfilling and impactful career.
Oluwadamilola Okeyoyin is a PhD candidate in Biomedical Science at the University of the West of England (UWE) Bristol, researching the impact of herbal teas and supplements on human microbiota and metabolism. As an Associate Lecturer, she teaches microbiology, mentors undergraduate researchers, and manages the NIHR INSIGHT Programme. She has led projects to enhance placement opportunities for marginalised students and served in leadership roles, including Vice-President Education of The Students’ Union at UWE and a Panel Member for the Teaching Excellence Framework. A passionate advocate for inclusivity, equity, and diversity, Oluwadamilola delivers talks on racism, mental health, and the intersection of science with fashion and entrepreneurship.
Mya-Rose Craig is a 22-year-old British-Bangladeshi birder, conservationist & environmentalist. In 2024, she was included in the Sunday Times list of 25 most influential young people. Having previously been the youngest person awarded an honorary Doctorate at age 17 for her pioneering work with her charity Black2Nature, leading the fight for equal access to nature, organising nature camps for ethnically marginalised young people for the last ten years. At 12 she was listed as one of Bristol's most influential young people and became a Bristol European Green Capital Ambassador the following year. She is a Diana, Women of the Future, and National Geographic Young Explorer 2023, award winner. She has written three award winning books, including her memoir, Birdgirl, published in the UK, Commonwealth and North America and translated into seven languages.
Georgina Fihosy is a healthcare professional, strategic account manager, and entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the intersection of science, business, and creativity. With a background in pharmacy and extensive experience working in the pharmaceutical industry, she specialises in Value and Access, working to ensure equitable healthcare solutions for those at greatest risk of ill health.
Alongside her corporate career, Georgina is an award-winning entrepreneur and founder of AfroTouch Design, a pioneering Afrocentric greeting card and stationery brand, which has been stocked by major UK retailers, including Waterstones. Through AfroTouch Design, she has been instrumental in increasing representation within the greeting card industry, championing the visibility of Black culture in retail spaces.
Georgina’s journey from pharmacist to entrepreneur has been driven by a passion for innovation, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a thought leader in both healthcare and business, she frequently speaks on topics related to career progression, entrepreneurship, and navigating dual careers. She is also an advocate for empowering professionals to embrace their multifaceted ambitions and create impact across industries.
At the Minoritised Live Scientists Future Forum, Georgina joins the panel discussion Broadening Horizons: My Future from Science, sharing insights into how she has balanced a thriving pharmaceutical career with building a successful creative business, while leveraging her expertise to drive change in both sectors.
Jersino Jean-Mary is an experienced leader in pharmaceutical research, with over 20 years in the field and 16 years dedicated to late-stage operations. As Executive Director of the European Late Stage Operations Team at UBC, he plays a key role in overseeing clinical trials and post-approval research, ensuring the delivery of life-changing therapies to patients. His work has contributed to advancing virtual and decentralised study designs, helping to optimise clinical research methodologies and improve patient access to innovative treatments. He has also been involved in research initiatives addressing key healthcare challenges, including opioid-induced constipation in patients with chronic non-cancer pain.
Jersino holds a Bachelor of Science degree and has furthered his education at Duke University. His extensive expertise in pharmaceutical research and clinical trial management makes him a valuable voice in discussions on the future of science and its impact on healthcare and industry.