Africa Young Scientists (AYS) is a vibrant non-profit organization committed to fostering the growth, mentorship, and empowerment of young scientists across Africa. Established by Dr. Philip A. Adeniyi in 2014 as a small mentorship initiative, AYS officially evolved into a formal organization on July 20, 2019. Its mission is to bridge the mentorship gap between upcoming scientists and seasoned researchers, particularly offering support to underrepresented groups such as female scientists.
AYS aims to create a dynamic network that encourages collaboration and innovation across the African continent, ensuring that young scientists have access to the guidance and resources they need to succeed in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through tailored programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives, AYS helps young scientists sharpen their skills, build professional networks, and bring innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
The organization focuses on uniting brilliant, forward-thinking minds, fostering a culture of creativity and discovery. AYS is dedicated to shaping a new generation of African scientists who will lead pioneering research, drive technological advancement, and contribute positively to global scientific endeavors. By cultivating talent and providing opportunities for mentorship, AYS is creating pathways for scientific innovation that benefits not just Africa but the world at large.
One of the key pillars of AYS is its commitment to inclusivity, with a special emphasis on supporting and empowering female scientists. The organization recognizes the unique challenges faced by women in science and actively works to promote gender equality by providing mentorship, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community for aspiring female researchers.
Since its inception, AYS has mentored hundreds of young scientists, helping them navigate the complexities of academia, research, and innovation. The organization continues to expand its reach, striving to make a meaningful impact on the scientific landscape of Africa and beyond.
Our core values
- Collaboration: AYS values collaboration and encourages scientists to work together to achieve common goals and drive impactful innovation.
- Creativity: AYS values creativity and encourages its members to think innovatively, fostering an environment that nurtures imaginative ideas and unconventional approaches to scientific research and problem-solving.
- Empowerment: AYS is committed to empowering young scientists, providing them with the necessary resources, opportunities, and support to develop their skills, knowledge, and leadership potential.
- Excellence: AYS promotes the pursuit of excellence in scientific research, mentorship, and professional development.
- Honesty: AYS upholds honesty as a fundamental value, promoting transparency, trustworthiness, and ethical conduct in all scientific endeavors.
- Impact: AYS aims to make a positive impact on society through scientific advancements, promoting sustainable development, and addressing pressing challenges in Africa and beyond.
- Inclusivity: AYS values inclusivity and strives to create a supportive and diverse community that welcomes scientists from all backgrounds, with a particular focus on supporting female scientists.
- Innovation: AYS fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging its members to explore new ideas, approaches, and technologies to address the challenges faced by Africa and the world.
- Integrity: AYS emphasizes integrity, adhering to high moral and ethical principles in research, collaboration, and interactions with stakeholders.
- Leadership: AYS promotes leadership development among young scientists, inspiring them to become visionary leaders in their respective fields and empowering them to drive positive change.
- Mentorship: AYS recognizes the importance of mentorship and commits to providing guidance, support, and opportunities for learning and growth to young scientists.
- Public Engagement: AYS values public engagement and science communication, aiming to bridge the gap between scientists and the public by fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange, and promoting scientific literacy.
- Respect: AYS upholds respect as a key value, fostering a culture of mutual respect among scientists, stakeholders, and the broader community, recognizing and appreciating diverse perspectives and contributions.
- Sustainability: AYS recognizes the importance of sustainability and endeavors to promote research and innovation that address environmental challenges, climate change, and the sustainable use of resources.
- Value for Humanity: AYS places a strong emphasis on the value of humanity, emphasizing the importance of scientific advancements and innovations that have a positive impact on society and improve the quality of life for people in Africa and beyond.
Our Team
Philip A. Adeniyi, Ph.D.
founder
Dr. Adeniyi's contribution to the development and mentoring of young scientists is outstanding as proven by his move to establish Africa Young Scientists (AYS), a non-profit organization that aims to unite, mentor, and promote young scientists from Africa in exploring science, technology, and innovation. AYS was created to bring together young, dynamic, brilliant, and innovative scientists across Africa to pave the way for innovations for the benefit of humankind. According to him, this was done to fill the mentorship gaps between upcoming scientists and older generations, especially female scientists.
In addition to his work with AYS, Dr. Adeniyi has over seven years of teaching experience at the university level during which he taught several students. He authored two academic books during this period, "Biomedical Research Methods" in 2015 and "A Synopsis of Human Neuroanatomy" in 2011. These books served as great resources for postgraduate and undergraduate students in medical and allied fields, respectively.
Abike Abimbola, MSc
2024/25 AYSMP Cordinator
Abike Abimbola is a seasoned educationist and scientific researcher passionate about selfdevelopment, service to humanity, and sustainable development . She holds a BSc/Edu in Chemistry Education from the University of Ile-Ife, Nigeria, an MSc in Environmental Chemistry and Pollution Control at the prestigious University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Abike is currently furthering her expertise with a PhD in Analytical/Environmental Chemistry from the same institution.
Abike's research interests revolve around crucial environmental issues, including solid waste management, waste recycling, pollution remediation and evaluation of pollutants in environmental samples. She is a member of the American Chemical Society and has worked extensively on e-waste management.
Abike Abimbola's influence extends beyond academia as she has successfully nurtured high school girls in their pursuit of STEM subjects, advocating for gender inclusivity in scientific fields. Her holistic approach to education combines academic excellence with a strong emphasis on character development. Aside from her professional endeavours, Abike is a devoted wife and mother, balancing her career and family life with grace and dedication.
What our Mentees say about us
AYS has exposed me to how to go about scientific researches especially in the medical field. It has also broadened my thinking and has avail so many opportunities for me to grow as a neuroscientist.Clement Lawson
Abuja Nigeria
AYS has served as a challenge platform for me. It's one platform that is pushing and challenging me to do the needful towards becoming a great scientist.Adetunji Adedeji
AFRICA YOUNG SCIENTISTS (AYS) has created an incredibly simple way for hundreds of young scientists from diverse Africa nations to be easily mentored and guided toward achieving their career dream. AYS is like "a captain that every ship needs to survive the Storm"ABDULAZEEZ O.TAJUDEEN
AYS has exposed me to so many opportunities and the advice has really helped me both as an individual and a researcher. The information being shared and meeting people with the same goals has been amazing.Ndu Miracle Chidera
AYS has taught me the importance of networking with other scientists. I have also got firsthand information on conferences, scholarships, and the likes.Inioluwa Akindoyeni
AYS has made me familiarize myself with a broader range of conceptions in regard to research. Most importantly, thank you, sir, for the mentorship received and the prompt response to our messages both mails and Whatsapp. Always believing we can do better and ready to stand for us as a referee.Zachariah Richard
