“Your dreams are valid and there is no limit to what you can achieve.” This quote keeps Adeola Adesoba going — regardless of the challenges she has encountered or will encounter over the course of her career. “I have a vision of where I am headed and will keep working hard to get there,” she says.

Originally from Nigeria, this New Face of Tech winner is currently a first-year graduate student at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock where she’s pursuing her M.S. degree in information science – information quality.

It’s all in pursuit of her professional dream to become a data scientist/data governance expert who helps businesses and organizations solve complex problems with data and machine learning techniques while also using technology for social good.

What does being the New Face of Tech mean to you?

It’s proof that my dreams and career aspirations in tech are valid. It provides an opportunity for me to inspire other women who want to transition from a non-tech background to a career in tech; it is possible!

Women are underrepresented in STEAM. How can we change this?

We can create enabling environments that will motivate women to pursue a career in STEAM while providing mentorship and resources to support their growth. Representation of women in STEAM can also be increased by creating awareness at the grassroots level — by changing the narrative one person at a time, so that young girls in their development years will understand that they belong in tech and this space is not reserved for men alone.

What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

As someone who is transitioning from a non-tech background, I have faced imposter syndrome and I’ve struggled with programming classes. I have also faced financial difficulties that sometimes stop me from having access to resources that will enable my growth.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I stay motivated by leveraging my support system of friends and family. Having an open mind, a willingness to learn, and celebrating the small wins also help me focus on my goals.

How will funding from the 1,000 Dreams Fund and HARMAN help you reach your goals?

The funding will help pay for academic and tech resources, including certifications that will accelerate the launch of my career.