Published on October 14, 2025
In a recent feature on Business RadioX, Self-eSTEM Founder and Executive Director Adamaka Ajaelo joined a national conversation about equity, innovation, and the power of representation in STEM. The podcast, known for spotlighting visionary business leaders, gave Adamaka the perfect platform to share how Self-eSTEM is changing the face of STEM one girl at a time.
During the interview, Adamaka shared how her leadership journey rooted in purpose and social impact; fueled the creation of Self-eSTEM as both a learning environment and a movement for systemic change. From being a math major and workforce analyst to leading global workforce planning and analytics projects for companies such as Meta (formerly Facebook), Cisco, Visa, and Adobe. Through that journey, she saw firsthand how systemic barriers limit access and opportunity for many young girls from “untapped and overlooked communities.”
“Self-eSTEM is about reverse-engineering the talent pipeline,” Adamaka explained. “We’re making sure girls have the skill sets not only to thrive in STEM fields but also in the future of work.” Drawing from her Nigerian father’s influence and early immersion in math and science, Adamaka described how her childhood laid the foundation for her passion for education and equity. “We had a chalkboard in the living room,” she recalled. “There was a time to play and a time to study.” That lived experience now fuels Self-eSTEM’s belief that every girl deserves access to hands-on learning and encouragement that builds confidence from an early age.
Self-eSTEM provides multi-year, tiered learning experiences in robotics, coding, AI, and digital literacy helping participants grow from curiosity to mastery. Beyond technical skills, the organization focuses on developing advocacy, networking, and self-confidence skills essential for leadership in an evolving innovation economy. Through the Business RadioX platform known for uplifting positive business stories Adamaka’s message reached an audience of entrepreneurs and innovators who share her belief that equitable access to STEM transforms not only individual futures but entire communities.
Listen to the full podcast here: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/bay-area-business-radio/self-estem/
At Self-eSTEM, we believe in empowering the next generation of Women to succeed in STEM. Visit www.selfestem.org to learn how you can contribute through donations, volunteer opportunities, and mentorship.Together, we can create a future where every young woman has the opportunity to thrive in STEM.
Stay connected with us on social media:
Instagram @selfestem | LinkedIn @self-estem | Facebook @selfestemorg| YouTube:@selfestem