Meet Fatima M. (she/her), a New Face of Tech winner who is studying physics and math at Drake University.

What is your dream?

My dream is to build a high-frequency trading firm grounded in scientific integrity, where speed is treated as a necessary instrument rather than the ultimate goal. Markets would be studied with the same seriousness as physical systems: through first-principles modeling, statistical rigor, and continuous empirical validation. I want to build systems that are fast, but also interpretable, resilient under stress, and designed with an explicit understanding of failure modes.

In parallel, I want to remain a practicing physicist and mathematician, working on fundamental problems in quantum physics, relativity, number theory, and statistics. I see these fields as deeply connected: the same habits of thought that govern good physics, clarity, invariance, and respect for limits are what I believe the future of quantitative trading will increasingly require.

Please share how you feel about the win and what impact it will have on your career.

This scholarship validates the path I’m on and gives me the momentum to pursue ambitious work with greater focus and responsibility.

What advice do you have for other women reaching for their dreams?

Not all worthwhile ambitions are immediately legible to others. Trust your reasoning, stay rigorous, and let your work do the explaining.