Meet Faith Roseleader – scholarship recipient and future masters’ student at Stockholm University
When Faith Roseleader learned she had been awarded the Swedish Institute’s scholarship for SI Women in STEM scholarship to study at Stockholm University, she was speechless. – I had no words. First came the shock, then joy – and finally, tears. It felt like someone had switched on the light in a room I’d been sitting in for a long time, she says.
After years of hard work, self-doubt, and many quiet rejections, the scholarship was a powerful confirmation that her efforts had made a difference – that she had been seen.
From Kenya to Stockholm – a passion for genetics
Faith holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Pwani University in Kilifi, Kenya. It was during an internship at the International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) that her interest in molecular biology was sparked.
– I started taking online courses to dive deeper, and later joined a bioinformatics workshop through the African BioGenome Project – that’s where my passion for population genetics was born.
She has worked as a volunteer research assistant at the Pwani University Biosciences Research Centre, where she used genomics to study conservation issues related to African elephants and coral reefs. Today, she is pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Research at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, where her current project focuses on the clinical effects of the Dantu blood group variant.
Expectations and first snowfalls
– What attracted me to the Master’s Programme in Biology at Stockholm University was its interdisciplinary design. It gives me the chance to explore microbiology, genetics, genomics, and infection biology.
She also highlights the university’s strong research environment, modern facilities, and mentorship opportunities as key reasons behind her choice.
– It felt like the perfect place to grow – both academically and personally.
Beyond engaging in new knowledge and research, Faith looks forward to experiencing life in Sweden.
– I’m excited to see snow for the first time, go hiking in nature, try fika – and taste Swedish meatballs, she says with a smile.
A voice in science
As a woman in STEM, Faith has faced several challenges – particularly limited access to education, networks, and resources.
– I’ve often had to create my own opportunities – by taking free online courses, volunteering in labs, and applying to programmes very few knew about.
Though self-doubt has been a frequent companion, her motivation remains strong:
– I want to help build a future where African women in science are not the exception – but the norm.
Women in STEM is a global movement an organisation working to uplift and empower women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through mentorship, education, and networking, they aim to break gender barriers and inspire the next generation of scientists. Faith’s story is a living part of that mission.
Advice to the next generation – and future dreams
Her message to young women considering a career in science is clear:
– You belong here, even when it doesn’t feel like it. Seek knowledge, take up space, let yourself be seen. Science needs you.
After her master’s studies, Faith hopes to pursue a PhD in infection biology. Her long-term goal is to contribute to solving global health challenges through research.
– I want to be part of the change that makes the world better through science – a change where more voices are heard.
Read more about the scholarship Women in STEM
Last updated: June 16, 2025
Source: Department of biology education