Anne Chisa | Founder & Host | The Root Of the Science Podcast
Anne Chisa is a dedicated scientist, passionate science communicator, and an innovative podcast host. Her mission revolves around amplifying African voices in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Although her journey into this world was not a planned one, it has become a path that she cherishes deeply. Currently, Anne is pursuing a PhD in Crop Science, focusing on climate-smart legumes and their crucial role in addressing food and nutritional security during the climate crisis. As she progressed in her studies, Anne discovered a significant gap in how science was communicated, particularly in Africa. This realization led her to establish The Root of Science Podcast, a platform aimed at sharing the stories of African researchers and scientists who are making impactful contributions in their fields. At EliteX, we are proud to have Anne Chisa as part of the edition: 20 Under 40: Influential & Rising Leaders of 2024.
Anne’s journey into crop science began with a simple yet powerful influence—her mother’s love for gardening. Growing up, Anne was inspired by her mother’s passion for growing vegetables at home. This early exposure ignited her interest in agriculture. Furthermore, a friend of her father encouraged her to consider agriculture as a promising career path. This support guided her towards the field of crop science. As she delved deeper, Anne became increasingly motivated to explore science communication. She noticed that the remarkable work conducted by African scientists was not reaching the wider public, which created a significant gap between research and its practical impact on daily lives.
“Curiosity is the spark that ignites innovation, and persistence is the fuel that keeps it burning; together, they drive progress in science and beyond.”
Recognizing the challenges faced by African scientists in gaining visibility, Anne decided to take action. She was driven by the belief that science can be complex but its relevance to society is undeniable. She aspired to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding. The lack of representation of African voices in global scientific conversations further fueled her motivation to create The Root of Science Podcast. Through this platform, Anne aims to amplify the voices of African researchers and share their groundbreaking work, contributing to a more inclusive narrative in science.
As a young leader, Anne has faced various challenges, particularly in balancing the demands of academia with the responsibilities of science communication. One of her most significant hurdles has been managing her time effectively between her PhD studies and running her podcast. To overcome these challenges, Anne developed efficient systems to streamline her work, learned to delegate tasks when possible, and strategically allocated her time. She emphasizes the importance of finding a strong support system and collaborating with like-minded individuals to balance her roles. This approach has been instrumental in helping her thrive in a competitive environment.
Among her accomplishments, Anne takes immense pride in The Root of Science Podcast. What began as a small initiative aimed at amplifying African voices has evolved into a global platform. The podcast has reached audiences around the world, showcasing vital work being done in Africa. Feedback from listeners who feel represented and inspired by the stories shared on the podcast has been incredibly rewarding for Anne. Additionally, she is proud of her PhD research, which holds the potential to contribute valuable knowledge in the realm of food and nutrition security.
In an industry characterized by competition, staying motivated can be challenging. Anne remains focused by constantly reminding herself of the bigger picture—the reasons why she embarked on this journey in the first place. She finds motivation in the impact her work has on real people’s lives, whether through her research or podcasting. Additionally, Anne stays connected to a network of peers and mentors who challenge and inspire her. This community plays a crucial role in encouraging her to persist, even during difficult times. When it comes to leadership, Anne believes that certain qualities are vital for success. Empathy, adaptability, and resilience are three traits she holds in high regard. Empathy allows leaders to connect with others and understand their perspectives, especially in collaborative environments. Adaptability is essential in today’s fast-paced world, enabling leaders to navigate change effectively. Resilience helps individuals overcome setbacks and continue moving forward, which is particularly important in the ever-evolving landscape of science and communication.
“Every setback is a stepping stone; it teaches us valuable lessons that pave the way for future success.”
Finding a balance between work and personal life is an ongoing challenge for Anne. She has learned to set clear boundaries and prioritize her tasks effectively. By making time for activities that recharge her, she ensures that she can dedicate quality time to her family, friends, and personal hobbies. Anne emphasizes the importance of being transparent about her limitations, which helps others respect her time and commitments. Innovation plays a central role in Anne’s approach to both her research and leadership. She continually seeks fresh ideas and new methods for communicating science effectively. Whether developing content for her podcast or conducting research, Anne believes in being open to new technologies and ideas that can enhance the impact of her work. This innovative mindset is crucial for addressing complex scientific topics and making them accessible to a broader audience.
For those just starting in the fields of science or science communication, Anne offers valuable advice: be curious and persistent. She encourages newcomers to stay inquisitive about the world around them and to pursue knowledge with determination. Finding mentors and building a support network is essential, but it’s equally important to trust one’s instincts. Taking risks and forging one’s own path can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.
Looking ahead, Anne envisions The Root of Science Podcast evolving into a leading platform for African voices in STEM. She aims to expand her impact in science communication across various media, ensuring that African stories and achievements are celebrated globally. On the research front, Anne hopes to contribute to tangible solutions that address food and nutritional security challenges, particularly in Africa. Her ultimate goal is to inspire others to take ownership of their narratives and highlight African excellence in science.
Anne acknowledges that setbacks are an inevitable part of any journey. Over time, she has learned to view failure as a valuable learning opportunity. Each setback has taught her something important, whether in her research experiments or her podcasting endeavors. By reflecting on what went wrong and learning from those experiences, Anne continues to move forward with a deeper understanding of how to tackle future challenges.
As a rising leader, Anne hopes to leave a legacy of amplifying underrepresented voices in science, particularly from Africa. She aspires to be remembered as someone who opened doors for others, especially young researchers and women in STEM. By transforming the way science is communicated and celebrated across the continent, Anne aims to pave the way for future generations of scientists and communicators, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and valued.
“Science flourishes when diverse voices contribute to the conversation; it’s time to amplify the stories that have long been overlooked.”
Anne Chisa’s journey as a scientist and science communicator is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Through her work, she not only advances her research in crop science but also champions the voices of African scientists, inspiring a new generation to engage with science and contribute to its vibrant narrative. With her unwavering commitment to innovation and representation, Anne is shaping the future of science communication in Africa, leaving an indelible mark on the field.