In a world that is progressively embracing diversity and equality, young individuals like Susanna Adjakie-Apekor are proving that passion knows no age or gender boundaries. At just 11 years old, Susanna, a resident of Ghana, has already etched her name in the world of mechanics, breaking stereotypes and showcasing her exceptional skills as a motorcycle repair specialist.
Early Beginnings:
Susanna’s journey into the intricate world of mechanics began at the age of three when her father, Amudu, a seasoned mechanic in their community, introduced her to the realm of motorbike repair. Initially seeking to spend quality time with her father, Susanna’s interest quickly evolved into a passion for understanding the complexities of the trade.
Encouraged by her mother, Susanna fearlessly entered a male-dominated field, defying expectations and surprising even her father, who initially had reservations about her ability to grasp the intricacies of motorcycle repair.
Exceptional Skills and Achievements:
Susanna’s remarkable journey reached a significant milestone when, at the age of six, she successfully repaired her first motorcycle. Now, at the age of 11, she has become a proficient motorcycle mechanic, handling tasks such as fixing crankshafts, brakes, and changing chains and sprockets with ease.
Despite her busy schedule as a class 3 student, Susanna manages to strike a balance between academics and her passion for mechanics. After school, she eagerly heads to the workshop to assist her father, showcasing not only her skill but also her determination to excel in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Ambitious Dreams:
Susanna’s ambitions extend beyond motorcycles. With dreams of opening her own repair shop, she aspires to broaden her expertise to include vehicles, boats, and even airplanes. Her vision is that of a versatile mechanic, mastering various modes of transportation.
While acknowledging the need for continuous learning, particularly in the electrical aspects of motorcycle repair, Susanna is confident in her growing skill set and is determined to expand her knowledge.
Inspiration to Others:
In a recent post on Instagram, Susanna’s story gained attention, highlighting her as a bright young talent from Ghana who has mastered the art of mechanics. Her story is not just about breaking gender stereotypes but also about inspiring others to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations.
Conclusion:
Susanna Adjakie-Apekor’s story serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of gender roles and expectations. At 11 years old, she is not just a skilled mechanic but also a symbol of empowerment for young girls aspiring to venture into traditionally male-dominated professions. As Susanna continues to chase her dreams, she leaves a trail of inspiration, proving that passion, determination, and skill know no age or gender limits.
Emma Theofelus is a Namibian politician who made history in 2020 when she was appointed as the deputy minister of Information, Communication and Technology at the age of 23. She is the current youngest woman government minister in both Africa and Namibia, and one of the most influential leaders on the continent. In this blog post, we will explore her background, achievements and challenges as a young leader in a male-dominated field.
Emma Theofelus was born on 28 March 1996 in Namibia. She grew up with a passion for social justice and human rights, and became involved in youth activism at an early age. She served as the deputy speaker of the Children’s Parliament from 2013 to 2018, where she advocated for the rights and interests of children and young people in Namibia. She also participated in various regional and international platforms, such as the African Union Youth Forum and the United Nations Youth Assembly.
She pursued her education at the University of Namibia, where she graduated with a law degree in 2019. She then joined the Ministry of Justice as a legal officer, where she worked on various legal matters, such as drafting bills, contracts and policies. She also became a board member of the National Council of Higher Education, where she contributed to the development and regulation of higher education in Namibia.
Her life took an unexpected turn when she received a call from the State House in March 2020, informing her that she had been appointed as the deputy minister of Information, Communication and Technology by President Hage Geingob. She was one of the youngest cabinet members ever appointed in Africa, and the youngest in Namibia’s history. She accepted the appointment with humility and gratitude, saying that she was ready to serve her country and learn from her seniors. Read more about Emma here.